How to Remove Mold Stains from a Stroller in 5 Simple Steps (Guide)

how do you remove mold from a stroller

Key Takeaways

  • Prevent mold from forming in the first place by storing your stroller in a dry, protected, climate-controlled environment. Use a stroller cover if storing for a prolonged period of time.

  • Many of the best mold removers aren’t safe for use around children, so always read labels carefully and use as directed.

  • Removable, washable fabrics can be treated differently than the plastic or metal frame of your stroller.

  • If your stroller gets wet, allow it to try fully in the sun in an open position before storing to prevent mold from recurring.

Removing mold is often a tricky task, but when it gets on baby gear, that can be especially daunting. That’s because many of the mold removing cleaners on the market aren’t safe for use around children. 

Removing mold thoroughly and safely from your stroller can be a multistep process. Let’s look at the best tips and tricks to make mold removal easier.

Why Mold Stains Appear on Strollers

Mold comes with health risks like allergic reactions and breathing problems, so you want to make sure anything your baby uses is mold-free. 

Mold thrives in damp, dark environments so where and how you store your stroller is key to preventing its growth in the first place. The factors that are most likely to lead to mold are:

  • Moisture: dampness creates a breeding ground for mold. If your stroller gets wet from rain and is folded up for storage before being allowed to dry thoroughly, mold can start to grow.

  • Undetected spills: If water or other liquid is spilled in the stroller without being noticed, that can lead to mold.

  • Unprotected storage areas: Storing your stroller in a space open to the elements or naturally damp, like a basement or crawl space, leaves it open to mold development.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before you get started, go ahead and gather the following supplies. It may go without saying, but make sure your checklist includes another caregiver for your little one while you’re cleaning. While the products we suggest are safer, you still don’t want them within reach of your child.

  • A spray bottle

  • Bucket

  • Bleach

  • Distilled vinegar

  • Baking soda

  • Hydrogen peroxide

  • Water

  • An outdoor or well-ventilated space to work in

  • Gloves, if you have sensitive skin

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Mold Stains from a Stroller 

If you’ve ever needed to clean your car seat, then this process should be familiar. 

Remember to never put fabrics in the dryer, as they could shrink; never submerse straps in water since that could weaken them; and only use mild detergents to avoid damaging your stroller. Once you’re ready to begin, follow these steps:

Step #1: Remove Any Fabric That’s Washable

The seat cover, sunshade canopy, and potentially even the cargo basket of your stroller might all be machine washable—check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to confirm. Wash in hot water with a mild detergent and allow to air dry.

Step #2: Wipe Down Plastic and Metal Components

Start with warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid like Dawn. If stains persist, use a diluted solution of vinegar and water (test an inconspicuous area first for color fastness). You can sprinkle baking soda on top and let it set for additional cleaning power.

Step #3: Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

Once stains are removed, wipe down the stroller again with a damp cloth to remove any cleaning residue. Allow the stroller to dry thoroughly before storing.

Step #4: Reassemble Your Stroller

Put back on the seat cover and canopy once the items are dry. 

Step #5: Store Your Stroller in a Dry, Protected Area

Prevent mold from coming back by storing your stroller in a dry area protected from the elements. Consider using a stroller cover to protect it if you tend to go long intervals between usage.

 

What Not to Do When Cleaning Mold from a Stroller 

Of course, what not to do while cleaning your stroller could be just as important as what to do. Make sure to follow these safety guidelines.

Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals

Some sources online may advise using bleach or Tilex to kill the mold, but harsh cleaners aren’t just risky to use around your little one—they could weaken the plastic of the stroller itself. 

Don’t Use the Clothes Dryer

While certain components might be machine washable, you should dry these items flat rather than putting them in the clothes dryer to avoid shrinkage.

Don’t Submerge Any Components

Take care not to submerge any of the components fully in water, especially the restraint straps. This could weaken the materials.

Allow Multiple Rounds

Stubborn stains may require more than one round of cleaning to remove fully.

How to Prevent Mold From Coming Back 

Removing mold can be a labor and time-intensive endeavor. To ensure your hard work isn’t in vain, take the following steps to make sure mold doesn’t get an opportunity to regrow.

Never Store Your Stroller While Damp

If you get caught in the rain, allow the stroller to dry fully in an open position before collapsing it for storage. If you live somewhere that it rains frequently, consider investing in a rain shield to protect fabrics. An extra canopy can also be a smart investment so that you can swap them out to allow thorough drying time.

Inspect and Wipe Down Your Stroller Regularly

Every week or so, give your stroller a wipe down with a dry cloth and check for any problem areas. Should mold start to regrow, early detection can greatly simplify the cleaning process.

Store Your Stroller Smartly

Pick a dry area protected from the elements to store your stroller. A closed garage, indoor closet, or even the trunk of your vehicle are all good options. Outdoor storage or damp ones like a basement or crawl space are open invitations to more mold growth.

If your stroller doesn’t come apart, you can follow our detailed instructions for cleaning a stroller with non-removable parts safely and efficiently.

Keep Your Baby Safe with Orbit Baby’s Easy-to-Clean Strollers

Orbit Baby’s strollers are built with premium materials and fabrics designed with both your baby’s comfort and the stroller’s longevity in mind. 

Fabric components are machine washable and the aluminium-and-plastic frame can be cleaned with a mild detergent and water. Protect your investment by storing your stroller in a clean, dry, sheltered space.

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