Keeping your baby’s car seat clean and hygienic is essential for their health and comfort.
Cleaning your Uppababy car seat may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple.
By following these few basic steps, you can keep your car seat looking and smelling fresh.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the main steps to clean your Uppababy car seat, including:
- Removing the fabric cover and canopy,
- Washing & drying the car seat,
- Dealing with stubborn stains and spills,
- And finally putting back the cover & canopy.
Gather your cleaning supplies
You will need a few supplies to clean your Uppababy car seat:
- A vacuum cleaner with attachments,
- mild soap or detergent,
- cold water,
- a soft-bristled brush (for stubborn stains)
- a damp cloth,
How to clean Uppababy car seat
Here are a few things you should keep in mind before starting the cleaning process:
Use ONLY Mild Soap or Detergent
Use only mild soap or detergent to clean your Uppababy car seat. Harsh cleaning products can damage the car seat and reduce its lifespan. We recommend using baby-safe detergents.
Avoid Using Hot Water
Do not use hot water to clean the fabric of your Uppababy car seat. Hot water can shrink the fabric and damage the color. Use cold or room-temperature water instead.
Be Gentle
When cleaning your Uppababy car seat, be gentle and avoid scrubbing too hard.
If the straps and buckles are mucky, you can use only a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or stains, and a damp cloth to wipe off any excess soap or detergent.
Prepare the Uppababy Mesa car seat for Cleaning
- Remove the head padding and the padding around the shoulder straps and buckle strap that goes between the legs
- Remove the car seat cover by unfastening the little clips that attach it to the car seat frame.
- Remove the sunshade if needed, you can unloop the elastic loops from the clips of the plastic.
Here is a video of how to remove the Uppababy car seat fabric
Now you end up with different parts of the car seat that can be machine washed.
Cleaning the Seat Pad, Infant Inserts, Buckle Pads, and Shoulder Pads
Machine wash
To clean the car seat fabrics (seat pad, infant inserts, buckle, and shoulder pads), pop them into the washing machine on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent.
Avoid using bleach, fabric softeners, dryer sheets, or anything other than mild soap.
Air-Dry
To dry, hang the fabrics to air dry in a shaded area away from direct sunlight.
Don’t use a machine dryer or an air dryer to speed up the process. This can damage the fabrics. Also, do not try to iron them.
Cleaning Harness Straps and canopy
Spot clean
You can spot-clean the harness straps using a damp cloth.
If the straps are mucky stains and need a deep clean, gently scrub the area with a soft-bristled brush.
Avoid using bleach, harsh detergents, or fabric softeners. Air dry the straps away from direct sun exposure.
Air-Dry
Air-dry the straps completely before using them again.
Do not use a hair dryer or a heater to speed up the drying process
Cleaning car seat buckles & Lower Anchor Connectors
Rinse
To clean the buckles and lower anchor connectors, rinse under warm running water.
Do not submerge in water, or use soap, detergents, solvents, or lubricants.
Towel dry
Towel dry the buckles and lower anchors completely before re-use.
Cleaning Car Seat Plastic Parts (Shell and Base) of Uppababy Mesa
Vacuum and Wipe Down
Vacuum clean to remove any loose dirt, crumbs, or debris from the car seat shell and base.
Next, use a damp cloth and a gentle soap to wipe down the plastic components and plastic parts of the car seat.
Be careful not to use too much water, as this can damage the car seat.
Air Dry
After wiping down the car seat shell and base using a clean tower, let it air dry completely before using it again.
Avoid using a hair dryer or any other heat source to dry the car seat, as this can also damage it.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains and Spills
Did your little one spill something on their Uppababy car seat? Don’t worry, there are ways to remove stubborn stains and spills.
First, start by using a damp cloth with mild soap and water to gently spot-clean the affected area.
If the stain remains, try using a gentle stain remover that is safe for your car seat’s fabric.
Let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean, damp cloth.
If the stain still won’t come out, you can try using a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the area. Be careful not to scrub too hard and damage the fabric.
Remember to always let the car seat air dry after cleaning. Never put it in the dryer or use a hair dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and straps.
Assembling the Car Seat fabrics
Once the car seat shell and covers are completely dry, reassemble the car seat covers according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Here is a video on how to attach the Uppababy Mesa fabrics again.
Make sure all the parts are securely in place before using the car seat again.
Car seat cover: Snap the car seat cover back into place by attaching it to the clips around the edges of the car seat frame.
Harness Straps: Ensure that the harness straps are correctly aligned and untwisted. To do this, pull the straps through the back of the car seat and make sure they are straight.
Buckles: Check the buckles and ensure that they are working correctly. You can test the buckles by clicking them together and making sure they are secure.
Base: If you have removed the base, make sure it is correctly attached to the car seat. The base should be firmly attached and not wobble or move around.
Align the car seat: Align the car seat with the base and make sure it clicks into place. You should hear an audible click when the car seat is correctly attached to the base.
Check the manual again: Double-check the manual to ensure that you have completed all the steps correctly.
Uppababy Mesa Car Seat Care Tips
Taking good care of your Uppababy car seat is essential to ensure its longevity, safety, and comfort for your little one.
Clean regularly
Regular cleaning of your car seat is essential to keep it hygienic and free from dirt and stains.
Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your specific model. You can also refer to our car seat cleaning guide where we share all the safe practices.
Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning the seat
Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners when cleaning your car seat.
These can damage the fabric, harness, and other components of the seat. Instead, use mild soap and warm water or a specialized car seat cleaner.
Always check your for damage
Regularly inspect your car seat for any signs of damage, wear, or tear. Check the harness, buckles, and other components for any signs of damage or malfunction.
If you notice any damage, stop using the seat immediately, and contact the manufacturer for repair or replacement.
Store Properly
When not in use, store your car seat in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Avoid storing it in damp, humid, or dusty areas. You can use a car seat bag or cover to protect it from dust and dirt.
Here is our full guide on how to safely store a car seat.
Read the car seat manual
Make sure you read the manual carefully and understand all the safety features and instructions.
When to Contact the Uppababy Car Seat Manufacturer?
If you have any questions or concerns about cleaning your Uppababy car seat, it is always a good idea to contact the manufacturer for guidance.
They can provide you with specific instructions for your particular model and ensure that you are following the correct procedures.
You can find Uppababy’s contact details in our car seat manufacturers list.
About Uppababy MESA car seat
Uppababy Mesa is a popular infant car seat. It’s designed to accommodate babies weighing between 4 to 35 pounds.
It’s also suitable for preemie babies.
We love the Uppababy Mesa car seat for its comfort, advanced safety features, and easy installation.
The Uppababy Mesa is compatible with the Uppababy stroller, including the Uppababy VISTA and CRUZ with no adapters.
FAQs
Is the UPPAbaby car seat cover washable?
Yes, the Uppababy car seat cover is machine washable. Wash in a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild soap.
What is the best way to clean an infant car seat?
The best way to clean an infant car seat is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions found in the car seat manual or on their website.
Is the UPPAbaby rumble seat washable?
Yes, the Uppababy rumble car seat is washable.
What is the lifespan of the UPPAbaby Mesa car seat?
The lifespan of the Uppababy Mesa car seat is 7 years from the date of manufacture or after a crash.
How do you clean car seat straps?
To clean car seat straps, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.
