Changing table pad - cleaning straps?

Question

What is the best way to go about cleaning the straps on a changing table pad? I am pretty sure they are not removable. They are the same material as in the straps on any high chair, bouncy seat, swing, etc.

They should be white but over time have become very discolored, and I would like to get them nice and clean for my new baby (scheduled c-section on Tuesday - so I am running out of time!)

Thanks in advance for any help!

Answer 1

There are two basic steps to cleaning baby toys and equipment:

1. Cleaning: That is, scrubbing with soap and warm water. It removes the grease and grime and washes off many germs. You don’t need to use anti-bacterial soap. Regular dish soap is fine.

2. Sanitizing: This is done with a sanitizing solution. It kills most of the dangerous germs. But the surface needs to be cleaned before it’s sanitized, since germs can hide in grease and grime. An inexpensive, effective and safe sanitizing solution can be made from diluting household liquid chlorine bleach—1 tablespoon of bleach in 1 quart of water or ¼ cup of bleach in a gallon of water. Properly diluted bleach is considered non-toxic and safe for cleaning children’s equipment since the chlorine evaporates within minutes. You can also use other approved sanitizing solutions if the label states they are non-toxic. Be sure to follow the directions carefully.

Answer 2

Could you soak the whole pad in a few inches of very hot water and laundry detergent in the bathtub?

And just because they're discolored, doesn't mean they're dirty or are going to cause problems while using the pad.  I'm sure your baby won't care and who else is going to see them besides you and a few family members?

If this is your first (?), you've got much bigger things to be worrying about and if it isn't your first, I'm surprised this is causing you such concern!

Good luck on Tuesday!

Answer 3

Try the tide or  clorox pens that you use for stains on a shirt. My hubby uses them for things like the seats in the car. They work great!  Good luck with c-section on Tuesday.  After you get those straps clean try to relax.  LOL being on the computer is more relaxing than cleaning!