How to Wash Your Baby's Car Seat
After a summer on the road, your car definitely needs to be washed. But what about your baby's car seat? Along with spilled bottles, regurgitation, and diaper leaks, car seats and strollers need a wash too. Read on to find out how best to do this.
With all this fuss, you should regularly clean the infant car seat using disinfectant wipes or a paper towel and white vinegar to prevent bacteria from growing. Clean thoroughly a few times a year. If you inherit a used car seat, clean it well before using it. Car seats are sturdy and can withstand deep cleaning. The same applies to strollers. Here's how to do it:
How to Clean Your Baby's Car Seat:
If you don't already have one, get a cover for your child's car seat. These are available in a variety of fabrics to keep your little one cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Better yet: they protect the car seat and keep it clean! Look for models that come off without removing the harness. Then just put it in the washer when needed.
Refer to the instruction manual or maintenance guidelines for how to remove removable pieces. Remove baby toys and fabric items. Wash them separately. Vacuum the fabrics using the nozzle designed for this purpose, paying special attention to the folds and crevices where the crumbs hide.
You should be able to put the cushion and fabric items in the washer - however, check the manufacturer's label for care instructions. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Avoid the dryer - you don't want certain items to shrink! Wring out excess moisture and lay flat to dry or hang to dry.
Wash the solid part of the seat with liquid dish soap and water. Avoid soaking the harness straps - instead use a damp sponge to clean. Allow the car seat and fabric parts to dry completely before reassembling them. Your local fire station can verify that your car seat is properly installed.
Also Wash Your Baby's Stroller:
Remove baby toys, tray, fabric items, awning, and baskets. Wash them separately. Follow the instructions above to wash a removable fabric seat. Clean the spots on the rest of the stroller by rubbing with a cloth and mild detergent. Rinse the cloth and wipe off any soap residue.
Use a dry cloth and all-purpose disinfectant spray or white vinegar to clean the stroller frame and wheels. If the wheels are sticky or squeaky, use silicone lubricant spray. While you're at it, check the tire pressure.
Let the stroller and the various parts dry completely before reassembling. Prevent mold growth by always storing your stroller in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Regular cleaning will keep your baby's car seat and stroller clean and in good repair. They could even be used by another child ... including yours!
