Expert shares 'deadly' mistake parents make when cleaning their child's car seat

14 February 2024 , 10:46

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Cleaning your children's car seats correctly is crucial to their safety (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Car seats are critical when it comes to caring for your children while driving. That's exactly why a car expert has shared how cleaning them incorrectly can be potentially hazardous for your little ones. Tom Riley, CEO of Kids Car store has emphasised the importance of proper cleaning practices, which he says are crucial to maintaining the seat's integrity and, more crucially, its safety.

Harsh, or inappropriate cleaning materials on car seats will not only compromise the hygiene of the car seat, he says, but can also lead to wear and tear that may cause the seat to malfunction in the event of a crash. He also says that understanding and implementing proper cleaning techniques is paramount for parents.

Riley also insists on the importance of consulting the car seat's manual before attempting to clean it, advising that the manuals are designed to provide specific instructions tailored to the safety and maintenance of the seat, including the recommended cleaning agents and methods. “Ignorance of these guidelines can inadvertently result in the degradation of key safety features of the car seat,” he says.

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And when it comes to cleaning products, Riley advises parents select safe soaps: “Mild soap with a neutral pH is recommended to avoid damaging the car seat,” he advises. To address bad odours, Riley suggests a simple, yet effective, method of airing out the car seat in the sunlight for a day. For cleaning crevices and hard-to-reach areas, he recommends using a large stick, wrapped in a wet cloth, or utilising a vacuum cleaner's crevice tool. "This approach ensures thorough cleaning without the risk of introducing excessive moisture, which can be harmful," he says.

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A crucial piece of advice from Riley is to avoid the use of hoses or pressure washers on car seats at all costs. “Such methods, although seemingly efficient for removing dirt and grime, can lead to water damage and compromise the seat's safety mechanisms,” he says.

With safety the number-one priority at all times, he highlights how this extends beyond the act of simply strapping your children into their seats. “Ensuring the safety of children while on the road involves more than just buckling them into their car seats. It involves regular and proper maintenance of these seats to ensure they provide the maximum protection possible," he concludes.

Emma Rowbottom