Caring for Your Baby Changing Mat: The Ultimate Guide
At Bobbin and Bumble, we know how important it is to keep your baby’s changing mat clean, safe, and in top condition. Whether you have one of our wedge changing mats, travel changing mats, or changing basket mats, proper care will extend its life and ensure it stays hygienic for every nappy change. Follow these simple care tips to maintain the quality and safety of your baby changing mat.
How to Clean Your Baby Changing Mat: Simple Steps
To keep your baby changing mat in the best condition, it’s important to clean it after every use. Here’s how to do it:
- Wipe Clean After Every Use: Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm soapy water to gently wipe the surface after each nappy change. This helps prevent stains and bacteria build-up.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Skip the bleach or strong cleaning products, as they can damage the mat’s waterproof surface and weaken the material.
- Dry Completely: After cleaning, ensure the mat is fully dry before storing or using it again. This prevents moisture from seeping in and causing mould or mildew.
Storing Your Baby Changing Mat to Maintain Quality
When your baby changing mat is not in use, proper storage is key to maintaining its quality and extending its lifespan:
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep your mat out of direct sunlight and avoid leaving it in humid or hot environments, as this can weaken the materials over time.
- Avoid Folding Too Tightly: If your mat is foldable, avoid folding it too tightly to prevent creasing or damaging the surface. For non-foldable mats, lay them flat or loosely rolled for storage.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals on Your Changing Mat
While it’s tempting to use strong disinfectants, harsh chemicals can harm your mat’s fabric and make it less safe for your baby’s delicate skin. Instead, use a mild, baby-safe soap with warm water to clean the mat. This keeps the surface intact and safe for regular use, ensuring it remains waterproof and durable.
Handmade Quality and Materials
Each of our baby changing mats is hand-sewn in the UK using nursery-grade, non-toxic materials. Our mats are free from harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates, making them safe for everyday use with your baby. The waterproof PVC surface makes clean-up easy and ensures the mat stays hygienic between changes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Your Changing Mat
1. How often should I clean my baby changing mat?
We recommend wiping down the changing mat after every use with warm soapy water to ensure hygiene. For a deeper clean, use mild detergent once a week or as needed.
2. Can I use disinfecting wipes on my mat?
While disinfecting wipes are convenient, we suggest using baby-safe wipes or mild soap and water to protect the mat’s waterproof coating and prevent any harsh chemicals from affecting the material.
3. Can I machine wash my changing mat?
No, our baby changing mats are not suitable for machine washing. Hand cleaning with soapy water is the best way to keep your mat clean without damaging the waterproof surface.
4. How should I store my changing mat when not in use?
Keep your mat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in humid or hot environments, and if your mat is foldable, fold it gently to prevent creasing.
5. What should I do if my changing mat starts to smell?
If your mat starts to smell, it’s likely due to moisture build-up. Ensure the mat is thoroughly dried after each cleaning. You can also wipe it down with a mixture of water and vinegar for a natural, odour-eliminating solution.
If You Need a Replacement or Custom Order
If your changing mat needs replacing or you'd like to order a custom design, simply pop us an email here. We offer made-to-order mats, with custom designs available within two weeks.
By following these care tips, your Bobbin and Bumble baby changing mat will stay in great condition, ready to provide a safe, comfortable space for every nappy change.