How to Clean the Pad for a Changing Table
Ancient moms didn't make room for diapers and changing tables. According to The Diaper Jungle, "Documents show that babies born in ancient times may have used milkweed leaf wraps, animal skins, and other natural resources." Of course, leaf wraps are messier than dealing with cloth or disposable diapers, or even cleaning the changing table pads. Most pads are manufactured as polyester foam encased in waterproof vinyl. Cleaning is relatively easy.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Changing table pad
- Detergent
- Hot water
- Bucket or hose
- Disinfectant spray
- Towel
Instructions
-
-
1
Remove the changing table pad from the changing table. If there is a removable cover on the pad, remove it and wash according to the manufacturer's care instructions on the label. If no label, wash in warm water with like colors.
-
2
Check the changing table pad quilted vinyl for any tears, holes, or seam pops. If you notice any break in the vinyl, you will either have to avoid getting that area wet, or allow time for it to air dry if the foam inside gets wet.
-
-
3
Wash the pad in a bathtub or outside with hot, soapy water taking care to get any debris or waste matter out of the quilted grooves and seam gutters.
-
4
Rinse with plain water or spray down with a hose.
-
5
Dry the changing table pad thoroughly with a towel.
-
6
Place the changing table pad on end in the bathtub.
-
7
Spray the entire pad, holding the spray can about 8 inches away, with a disinfectant spray. According to Lysol, "Spray two to three seconds until covered with mist. Allow to stand for 10 minutes to air dry."
-
8
Allow to air dry. Do not towel off as this wipes off the anti-bacterial spray that must dry in place on the item being disinfected.
-
9
Return the dry changing table pad to the changing table and secure it in the manner the pad is designed.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Various covers, mostly made from terry cloth, are available that slip over the pads much like a bed sheet. Some cloth changing pad inserts are made to use with smaller infants and have padded sides. These are always washable. If your changing table vinyl pad has a tear or hole, cover with furnace tape or other adhesive tape to decrease the likelihood of mildew and molds taking root in the inside foam.
