When was the last time you gave your baby’s car seat a deep clean?
As car detailing professionals, we see infant car seats not being cleaned for months!
And, when we talk to new parents and car owners about the cleaning process of their infant’s car seat, many of them admit that they are unsure how to clean their child’s car seat properly.
If you are a new parent who owns a car, here’s our helpful guide on cleaning an infant car seat.
How to Clean a Baby Car Seat Safely: Step-By-Step Process
Infant car seats are made of a combination of breathable fabric covers, shock-absorbing foam, and sturdy plastic shells. While these materials provide comfort and protection to your newborn, they also absorb moisture and trap dirt and debris, making regular cleaning an important part of your daily routine. Please note that using the wrong cleaning products or methods can weaken safety features
Step 1: Preparing for Cleaning
Always check the manufacturer’s manual before cleaning. Each car seat brand has specific recommendations for safe cleaning practices.
- Remove the baby car seat from the car for better access.
- Shake out loose debris or turn the seat upside down to dislodge crumbs.
- Use a handheld vacuum with a crevice attachment to remove dust and spilled food particles from seams and fabric folds.
Step 2: Cleaning the Fabric Cover
- If the fabric cover is removable, check if it is machine washable. Most baby car seat covers can be washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cold or warm water.
- Avoid using hot water as it may weaken the fabric or cause shrinkage.
- For non-removable covers, use a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of baby-safe soap and warm water to spot-clean stains.
- Allow the fabric to air dry completely before reassembly. Drying in direct sunlight can help eliminate odors naturally.
Step 3: Cleaning Infant Car Seat Straps and Harness
- Do not machine wash or soak the harness straps. These straps are designed to absorb impact during an accident, and excess moisture or harsh chemicals can compromise their integrity.
- Instead, use a damp cloth with mild soap to gently wipe down the straps.
- Avoid using Clorox wipes on baby car seat harnesses as the chemicals may degrade the webbing.
- If the buckle is sticky, swish it in a cup of water (without submerging the straps) and let it air dry before testing for a secure click.
Step 4: Cleaning the Plastic Shell
- Wipe the plastic base and shell with a damp cloth and mild baby-safe detergent.
- Do not use harsh chemicals like bleach, vinegar, or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can weaken the plastic.
- If needed, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub away stubborn spots, followed by a damp microfiber cloth to remove any residue.
How to Clean a Baby Car Seat Without Removing It
If you need to clean your baby’s car seat but don’t want to remove it from the car, follow these steps:
- Use a hand vacuum to remove debris from the seat’s surface and crevices.
- Spot clean with a baby wipe or a cloth dipped in mild soapy water.
- Dry the seat immediately with an absorbent towel to prevent moisture buildup.
- If odors persist, place a small bowl of baking soda nearby overnight to absorb unwanted smells.
Recommended Baby Car Seat Cleaning Products
You can always use mild products like baby shampoo to clean the baby car seats, however, if you want a dedicated product, here are some of our top choices:
Dapple Baby - All-Purpose Cleaning Spray
Attitude Toys and Surface Cleaner
Clek Fabric Cleaning Plus Stain Remover Kit
New Parents Also Ask
Can I Use Clorox Wipes on an Infant Car Seat?
Clorox wipes are not recommended for cleaning infant car seats, especially on fabric and harnesses. The chemicals can degrade the material and may leave behind residues that could irritate a baby’s sensitive skin.
How Often Should You Clean an Infant Car Seat?
We recommend light cleaning the baby car seat weekly and deep cleaning every 1 to 2 months or after every major spill.
How to Keep Baby Car Seat Clean Longer?
To keep your baby’s car seat clean for longer, use a seat protector or liner to catch crumbs and spills before they settle into the fabric. Limiting messy snacks while traveling can also reduce the chances of sticky residues and food debris accumulating in hard-to-reach areas. Keeping baby wipes handy allows for quick cleanups of minor spills and messes, preventing stains from setting in.
