Can Car Seat Covers Go in the Washing Machine?
The Fresh Start Blog
Can Car Seat Covers Go in the Washing Machine?
It would be so easy to toss the cover in with the towels. Some covers can go in the washer, some can't, and the ones that can usually come with specific instructions.
Car Seats3 min readBy Fresh Start
There's no single answer for every car seat. Covers are made from different fabrics and padding, and each manufacturer tests its own cleaning instructions for its own seats.
How to check yours
- Find the care section in your manual and look for the cover.
- Check the care tag sewn into the cover, if there is one.
- Note the wash setting, water temperature and detergent it lists, and how it says to dry the cover.
- If the manual says hand wash or spot clean only, follow that.
Before you take it off
Take photos of how the cover tucks into the shell and where the harness passes through it. Some covers have several pieces, like inserts, pads and a canopy, and each may have its own instructions.
Drying
Drying instructions vary as much as washing ones. Don't put the cover in the dryer unless your manual allows it, and let it dry fully before you put it back on.
Putting it back on
Refit the cover using your photos and the manual's diagrams, and make sure the harness goes back through the right slots. If anything doesn't line up, check the manual again or contact the manufacturer.
From Tori's phone. Tap to watch, and see more on Instagram.
Short on time?
Fresh Start cleans the cover, harness, buckle and shell the way your manufacturer allows, and carefully puts it all back together. Drop-offs start as early as 6 AM, and before noon means it's usually ready the same day. See car seat cleaning.
Rather hand it off?
Boosters $25 · Infant seats $30 · Convertibles $45. Bundle 2+ seats and save. Free drop-off at Stonebridge in Zephyrhills, or pickup.
QUICK ANSWERS
Questions Parents Ask
Can I wash the cover and the straps together?
Check your manual. The harness often has different care rules from the cover.
Can I put the cover in the dryer?
Only if your manual says so. Many give specific drying instructions.
When can I collect my seat?
Drop-offs start as early as 6 AM. Drop off before noon and it's ready the same day. After noon, it's ready the next day. Most cleanings take 4–6 hours.
KEEP READING
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What Products Can You Use to Clean a Car Seat?
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Read the post →Ready for a Fresh Start?
Book online in a minute, or send Tori a text. Drop off before noon and it's back the same day.
