# How to Clean Used Baby Furniture

URL: https://homequicks.com/cleaning/how-to-clean-used-baby-furniture
Category: Cleaning & Stains
Published: 2011-11-22T05:22:00
Updated: 2011-11-22T05:22:00
If you have purchased or are thinking of purchasing used baby furniture, then you need to know how to clean and disinfect it properly. Read the following article for more information...

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 a used baby furniture can be cleaned, 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.

1.  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.
2.  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.
3.  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.
4.  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.
5.  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.
6.  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.
7.  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.