Ah, the joys of parenthood - one minute you're strolling through the park with your little angel, and the next minute you're knee-deep in a sea of Cheerios, crushed goldfish crackers, and mystery stains.
Yes, folks, when it comes to the contents of a kid's dirty stroller, there's no telling what you might find. From soggy tissues to half-eaten lollipops, it's like a treasure hunt gone wrong. And let's not forget about those rogue toys that somehow manage to escape from their designated compartments and end up wedged between the fabric.
But fear not, brave parents - with a little elbow grease (and maybe some gloves), you can conquer even the messiest of strollers and emerge victorious on the other side.
Why Do You Need To Clean A Stroller?
Attention all parents: if you thought your baby's stroller was just a mobile storage unit for snacks and toys, think again! It turns out that cleaning your stroller is just as important as cleaning your baby's bottles and diapers (well not quite but it's important).
Not only does a dirty stroller look unsightly, but it can also harbor harmful bacteria and germs that could make your little one sick. So, grab some disinfectant wipes and buckle up - we're about to take a deep dive into the world of stroller hygiene.
Plus strollers can be expensive, so you need it to stay looking good in case you want to sell this piece of baby gear later on to another mom to be.
Best Practices For Cleaning A Stroller
Before diving into the task of cleaning your baby's stroller, it's important to take a moment to read the manufacturer's information. Each stroller is different and may require specific care instructions to ensure that it remains in good condition. By reading the manufacturer's guidelines, you can avoid accidentally damaging any parts of the stroller or voiding its warranty.
Some manufacturers may recommend using certain types of cleaners or avoiding certain cleaning methods altogether. They may also provide tips for removing specific stains or dealing with tough messes. By following these guidelines, you can rest assured that you are taking the best possible care of your baby's stroller and ensuring its longevity.
So, before grabbing a bucket and sponge, take a few minutes to review the manufacturer's information. Your little one - and your wallet - will thank you in the long run!
Clear And Remove Fabric
Start by removing any toys or accessories that are attached to the stroller. Then if possible, carefully remove the fabric from the frame. Most manufacturers have guidance on how to remove these without damaging the material.
We've found these helpful how to videos for UppaBaby vista and BabyJogger.
Vacuum Any Debris
If necessary, you can also use an upholstery brush or vacuum cleaner attachment to get rid of stubborn dirt or crumbs. Make sure to get inside the cargo basket, and cupholders and maybe use a toothbrush to brush away any bits that are stuck in the creases of the seat.
Clean With Soap And Water
Then you can get a disinfectant wipe and clean the frame and any obvious sections that can be wiped. Once the surface has been wiped down, you can use a gentle detergent soap and water and a soft-bristle brush to scrub away any other stains or grime that may have accumulated over time.
We've found this great kit for cleaning strollers and car seats. Something like this would be ideal.
Rinse And Dry
Finally, rinse off any residue with clean water and allow the stroller to air dry completely before putting it away or using it again. You should soak up as much of the water as possible with a cloth.
Things To Avoid
When it comes to cleaning your baby's stroller, there are a few things you definitely want to avoid.
No Bleach
First and foremost, do not use bleach! While it may seem like the perfect solution for getting rid of tough stains and odors, bleach can actually damage the fabric and weaken the stroller's frame over time. Instead, opt for a gentle cleaner that is specifically designed for fabrics.
Don't Drown The Fabric
Do not oversoak the fabric. Too much water is hard to dry and will likely leave water marks all over the clean fabric making it look worse than before you started. If you remove the fabric from the frame, please reframe from dunking it in a bathtub or sink.
Don't Tumble Dry
Another big no-no when it comes to stroller maintenance is putting it in the dryer. While you may be tempted to speed up the drying process by throwing everything in the machine, resist the urge! The heat from the dryer can cause shrinkage or even melt certain parts of the stroller. Instead, hang everything up to air dry or lay it flat on a clean surface.
Pro Tips For Cleaning A Stroller
- When cleaning your stroller, make sure you do not saturate the fabric as this could cause damage and weaken its structure over time.
- Additionally, always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before applying any type of cleaner so you know exactly what products are safe for use on your particular model of stroller.
- Make sure you clean out the inside of the storage basket regularly as well since this area tends to accumulate more dirt than other parts of the stroller due to frequent usage.
- You can use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process or a cloth to help soak excess water.
- Spray the stroller with a child friendly disinfectant spray.
Well Done, You Do It!
That's a job well done. Keeping your stroller clean and sanitized is essential for keeping both you and your little one safe from germs and bacteria. By following these tips and best practices, you can ensure that your trusty companion stays looking its best while also providing a healthy environment for both of you when out exploring together!
We also have some tips on how to clean your baby's toys, and keep them germ-free and free from those sticky fingers.
Happy cleaning!
What type of cleaner should I use on a stroller?
The best way to clean a stroller is to use a gentle cleaner that is designed specifically for fabrics.
Is it safe to put a stroller in the dryer?
No, you should never put your stroller in the dryer as this can cause shrinkage and even melt certain parts of the stroller. Instead, hang everything up to air dry or lay it flat on a clean surface.
How often should I clean my baby's stroller?
It's important to clean your baby's stroller regularly - at least once every few months - and any time it gets particularly messy or dirty. Cleaning out the inside storage basket frequently will also help reduce dirt accumulation over time.
How to clean a BOB stroller?
Cleaning a BOB stroller is relatively simple and straightforward.
Remove any loose dirt or debris from the stroller using a soft-bristled brush or vacuum cleaner. Mix a solution of mild soap and warm water in a bucket. Dip a clean cloth into the soapy solution and wring out excess water. Wipe down all surfaces of the stroller with the damp cloth, paying extra attention to any areas that may be particularly dirty or stained. Rinse the cloth thoroughly and then wipe down all surfaces again with clean water to remove any soap residue. Allow the stroller to air dry completely before using it again. Additionally, you should always refer to your specific model's manual for any additional care instructions or recommendations on how to maintain your BOB stroller properly.
How to clean stroller fabric?
To clean a stroller fabric, you can use a mixture of mild soap and warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wring out excess water. Then, wipe down all surfaces of the fabric, paying extra attention to any areas that may be particularly dirty or stained. Rinse the cloth thoroughly and then wipe down all surfaces again with clean water to remove any soap residue. Allow the fabric to air dry completely before using it again.
