Easy Tips to Cleaning Your Baby Stroller, Highchair and Gear
Your baby’s stroller is COVERED in germs and bacteria.
Germs, mold, strep, and staph bacteria commonly lurk in baby gear. In fact, the website ASecureLife studied the amount and the types of germs on 10 household items in homes with young children. While you might think that phones or remotes were on the top of the list, you’d be surprised to learn that the number 1 germiest item was…the stroller! So what are busy parents to do? Don’t fret! A few simple steps can help you keep all your baby gear clean, not just your stroller.
DIY
Step 1: Vacuuming
Be sure to use a vacuum to get from top to bottom, inside all moving parts, hidden seams, covers, and straps to remove every last crumb. When cleaning a car seat, highchair or stroller take a moment to consult the manual so you can be sure to take it apart correctly. If you don’t have your manual handy, check out the manufacturer’s website for a quick download.
Step 2: Cleaning Time
We recommend using a combination of water and mild detergent, or dye-free and scent-free soap (such as castile soap) to remove germs, dirt, stains, and impurities from baby gear items. These types of cleaning agents safely clean fabrics and surfaces using surfactants to remove dirt, grease, and common bacteria and viruses. Be sure to avoid any cleaners that have harsh chemicals. Use a wet cloth to get into all the nooks and crannies. Be sure to pay close attention to the straps as those are usually closest to the baby and they tend to get the messiest…
Step 3: Sanitizing
Steam cleaners are your friend! They open the pores of fabrics and materials to help clean up dirt and stains. They also remove substances from your baby gear including bacteria, viruses, fungi (mold and mildew), urine, feces, vomit, and grease. If you are in the market for a good steamer, try out SteadFast Chemical-Free Steam Cleaner, or if you are on a budget check out some handheld steam cleaner options like Kiato Handheld.
Step 4: Drying
Seems too obvious? You’d be surprised. Proper drying is a vital step in cleaning your gear and helping prevent harmful substances such as mold and mildew. Be sure to soak up any excess water and moisture with microfiber cloths and then let the fabric dry completely. If the weather permits, you can set items in the sun or outdoors. If not, you can set your item in front of a fan to thoroughly dry it out.
Step 5: Reassembling
Consult your manual again to be sure that you are reassembling your gear correctly. Again, if you didn’t keep the original manual – or can’t find it- check out the manufacturer’s website for a quick download.
Using a service
If life has you running around and you really do not have the time – or energy– to clean your gear every time, there are great services available to help! Check out our friends at BabyQuip! BabyQuip has a wide network of providers that are certified, cleaning experts. They also follow the CDC guidelines for all items cleaned. A meticulous 5-step cleaning process is followed for each and every item cleaned. For more information check them out at BabyQuip.com.
