How to Clean Used Baby Furniture

Infants and toddlers are not aware of the germs and bacteria that are present on various surfaces. Their toys, furniture, bedding, and surrounding environment, all have harmful bacteria present. And as a parent, you want to make sure that your child isn't exposed to such germ-breeding areas. It won't be wrong of me to say that you, a responsible parent, are taking all possible precautions and measures necessary to keep your home clean and hygienic. This way, your family's and child's health are not at any risk. However, using certain commercial cleaning products can mean bringing toxins and hazardous substances into your home.

Babies have the tendency to put anything and everything in their mouths. Now imagine the so-called clean/ sanitized toys and furniture; do you think that just because they are wiped with paper towels or clean cloth, your baby is not at risk? Think again. The point I'm trying to make here is - use of natural, non-toxic, homemade cleaning solution will ensure your baby's good health. And, if you're wondering how to clean used baby furniture, then reading the rest of this article is the key. As you read on, you will find that we have given steps on cleaning and sterilizing used baby furniture and toys, along with non-toxic cleaning solutions.

Ways to Clean Second-hand Infant Furniture and Toys

Buying second-hand baby furniture is a good, inexpensive investment as their original prices are quite high. There are times when you really don't require a new high chair, crib, stroller, changing table, etc.; these items can easily be bought second-hand. However, you cannot take any chances while cleaning and sterilizing any of these items. You need to make sure that a thorough job is done, not just before your baby uses them for the first time, but also at regular intervals.

    While cleaning plastic furniture like changing table, high chair, stroller, baby tub, etc., you can make a mixture with 1 cup white vinegar and 1 cup water. Pour both the liquids in a spray bottle and mix thoroughly. Once the mixture is ready, you can spray it over the furniture. It will not only clean and sanitize the furniture, but also remove any residue that may have stayed on them. You can add a few drops of lemon essential oils to remove the odor of vinegar.
    Another solution that helps clean plastic furniture is made with 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup club soda, and a few drops of tea tree essential oil. Mix the ingredients in a bowl or spray bottle. Use a clean cloth or paper towels to wipe and sanitize the baby furniture. You can even use this solution for regular cleaning.
    There are some furniture (high chair, stroller, baby swing, etc.) that have plastic cushions on them. In order to clean such furniture, first of all, you need to remove the cushions to clean it properly. Prepare a mixture with warm water and mild liquid anti-bacterial soap. Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the surface and let it dry in the sun thoroughly before you replace it.
    As for cleaning fabric cushions and bedding, you need to remove them from the actual furniture as well, if possible. This will help you tremendously while cleaning and sanitizing the furniture properly. First of all, use a vacuum to remove dirt, debris, dust, and any other particles that may be present. Next, you want to use club soda to clean any marks or spots off the fabric. In the end, as the initial and regular cleaning method, you can use a mild dishwashing soap with water to wash the fabric thoroughly. Rinse under warm water properly and leave it out in the sun to dry. Use the vacuum one last time before replacing it back into place.
    When you are looking to clean wooden baby furniture such as crib, high chair, or any other wooden toys, you need to use Pine-Sol for an effective job. To prepare the mixture, add a few drops of Pine-Sol (as recommended on the bottle) in a bucket of hot water, and combine. Use a clean cloth or sponge to clean, wipe, and disinfect the surface. If you find grime or dirt on the wooden furniture, then use a hard-bristled brush to clean the furniture.
    To disinfect your baby's second-hand plastic toys, make a mixture of white vinegar and hot water. Submerge the toys inside the mixture and rinse under warm water. Let the toys dry under the sun before they go in your baby's mouth.
    As for cleaning stuffed toys and woolen toys, hand wash them with a mixture of white vinegar, baking soda, and hot water. Rinse under warm water thoroughly and let them dry under the sun.

It is very important that you pay extra care while cleaning and sterilizing used baby furniture and toys. As you know this already, your baby's health and well-being is essential and the first step is by keeping your home's environment clean and sanitized. When you follow these healthy rules around your home, there won't be any chances of exposing your child to harmful germs and bacteria.