How to Clean a Play Yard Mattress

Play yards are collapsible play areas or cribs. They have mesh sides and are portable. They usually come in two or three pieces: A bassinet covering for newborns, the main crib and the mattress. It is a good idea to give the mattress a periodic cleaning, since dirt and germs tend to get trapped underneath it, and once the crib is packed away, the mattress can even mildew, especially if it was put away while wet. Luckily, it is easy to clean a play yard mattress.

Things You'll Need

• Nontoxic mild cleaner or soap
• Rag

Instructions

1. Remove the mattress from the play yard. If you cannot remove it (some older models did not have removable mattresses), then partially collapse the play yard so that you have easy access to the mattress.

2. Clean the bottom of the play yard. Use a vacuum to remove any debris that was under the mattress and in the bottom of the play yard.

3. Wash the mattress with a rag and soapy water. If there are some spots that need to be scrubbed clean, use a nontoxic cleaner.

4. Rinse the mattress clean with cool, clean water. Flip it over and repeat on the other side.

5. Let the mattress air dry. Drape it over a porch rail or hang it on a line to get both sides dry. Make sure it is completely dry before putting it back into the crib, or the underside may mildew.

Resources

• Toys R Us: Play Yard Buying Guide