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Oh the sweat, spit up, blowouts, food spills — your baby carrier could tell some stories if it could talk. Eventually there will come a time where it will get dirty and need to be washed. Think of your carrier like your clothing. It’s something you wear so occasionally you’ll need to wash it as well. How often you wash your carrier will depend on what type of carrier you have, how often you wear it, what kind of mess gets on it and your personal preference on the look and smell of your carrier. Check out our top tips for washing your baby carrier now!
How do I wash my baby carrier?
The first thing to remember when washing any baby carrier is to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Washing instructions will vary based on the type of carrier, carrier accessories and fabric. Carrier brands may even have different washing instructions for their different models, which is why you always want to check the carrier’s care instructions beforehand. Generally, it’s recommended to not use bleach, fabric softeners or detergents with brightening chemicals when washing a baby carrier. Following the care instructions and using a gentle detergent will help maintain the color and integrity of your baby carrier.
With a soft-structured baby chest carrier, be sure to secure the straps and buckles before washing. Some parents also put this type of carrier in a pillowcase to keep the straps from getting tangled. With a wrap, it’s often recommended to wash it in a mesh washing bag so the wrap doesn’t get caught in your washing machine or tangled up in other clothes if you’re throwing it in with another load.
Another washing tip is to have a clean washing machine before tossing in your baby carrier. Your washer may wash clothes every day, but those dirty clothes you throw in can leave behind bacteria and other residue, which then lead to a build-up of bad smells. So before washing your carrier, pour in some white vinegar or throw in a washing machine cleaning tablet from Odor Crush and run it through a hot cleaning cycle. This way you’ll know for sure that your baby carrier will come out of the washing machine clean and smelling fresh.
Can I spot clean my carrier?
If you have a soft-structured baby carrier, you can wash it less often thanks to spot cleaning. Simply take a wipe or damp dish rag with a little mild detergent and spot clean your carrier for smaller messes in between washes. You can also spot clean a baby wrap, but typically it’s better and more effective to throw the wrap in the washing machine than trying to spot clean it.
Should I wash my new baby carrier before using it?
Certain baby carrier manufacturers will advise you to wash the carrier before its first use, but ultimately it’s up to you. Some parents wash theirs before using it, while others don’t. If you’re worried about any dyes touching your baby’s delicate skin or if your family has any skin sensitivities or allergies, then wash the carrier. Woven wraps are about the only carriers manufacturers say you need to wash before using. A woven wrap comes right off the loom and from the seamstress who made it, so if you want it really clean, wash it after you get it. Plus, washing helps tighten the wrap’s weave and starts breaking it in for you.
Before and after washing a new baby carrier, we also recommend that you check the carrier for any flaws. Your baby’s safety is your top priority, so it’s important that your carrier is not only clean but also safe for you and your baby. Do you have any other questions about washing a baby carrier or laundering tips for new babywearers?
We’d love to hear them!
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