How to Clean a Travel Changing Pad

Last Updated: September 16, 2021 References

Like stationary changing tables, travel changing pads can collect a lot of bacteria. To prevent the spread of germs, you can sanitize the with a disinfectant wipe or a mixture of soap and water. If the care label permits, use your washer and dryer to give the pad a more thorough wash. With regular maintenance, you can always have a clean, portable pad for all your diaper changing needs!

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Disinfecting and Washing the Pad by Hand

1
Clean up any visible excrement with a paper towel. Before sanitizing the changing pad, check for any fecal residue along the surface. Do your best to blot and wipe up any visible stool and urine so the pad can be as clean as possible. If the item is soaked with urine, check the care label for the proper washing instructions.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- It’s easiest to clean your pad on a flat surface.
- To keep your pad as clean as possible, consider sanitizing it after each use.
Did you know? Most travel changing pads are made with water-resistant material like canvas, rayon and polyester, which help make the initial cleaning process a lot easier.^{[2]
X
Research source}
2
Sanitize the travel pad with a disinfectant wipe for an easy option. Before you clean off the surface of your changing pad, read the care label for specific cleaning instructions. If the label permits it, use a disinfectant wipe to clean and sanitize the surface of the pad. Let the item air-dry for several minutes, or until the surface is completely dry to the touch.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- Don’t use the changing pad until the disinfectant has completely evaporated.
- If you don’t have any wipes on hand, consider using disinfectant spray and some paper towels instead.
Advertisement
3
Wipe down the surface with soap and water if you don’t want to use harsh chemicals. Pour a pea-sized amount of mild detergent onto a paper towel or cloth, then rub down the surface of the travel changing pad. Focus on the areas where your baby sits, so the pad is completely sanitized for the next diaper change.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- Always check the care label before using any kind of detergent or soap on your pad.
4
Air-dry the pad in an open area. Unfold the changing pad completely and attach it a clothesline or clothing rack. Leave the item in an outdoor or indoor area that gets a lot of open air, so the pad can dry efficiently. Once the item is dry to the touch, fold it and store it as you usually would.^{[5]
X
Research source}
5
Spray the pad with a mixture of bleach and water to disinfect the pad fully. Mix ⅛ cup (30 mL) of bleach in ½ gal (1893 mL) of water. Fill a large, empty spray bottle with ½ gal (1893 mL) of tap water, then add ⅛ cup (30 mL) of standard bleach. Replace the lid, shake the bottle, then spritz the pad. After letting the bleach sit for 2 minutes to disinfect the pad, wipe it down with a paper towel. Repeat the process on the other side.^{[6]
X
Research source}

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Machine Washing the Changing Pad

1
Clean off any cover-free pads with a disinfectant wipe. Use a paper towel or clean rag to blot away any obvious messes from the pad. Next, wipe the item down with a disinfectant wipe to sanitize it quickly. Before putting it in the washer, make sure that there’s no visible fecal matter on the pad.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- When using disinfectant wipes, read the label to see how long the wipes take to sanitize a surface.
2
Read the care label on machine washable travel pads. Check your changing pad to see if there’s a care label sewn into the side. Before you proceed, see if the tag recommends hand washing or machine washing. If the care label permits machine washing, read the care instructions to see if a normal, permanent press, or delicate cycle is recommended.^{[8]
X
Research source}
- Care instructions will differ depending on the travel changing pad that you use.
- Many travel changing pads come in waterproof, washable materials. However, if the travel pad has extra cushioning built in, it might not be best to place in the washing machine.^{[9]
  X
  Research source}
3
Launder the changing pad whenever it gets soiled. While referencing the care label, place the pad in the washing machine using the specified cycle and water temperature. Once the pad is clean, consult the care label to see if the item should be tumble dried or air-dried. Try not to use the portable pad again until it’s dry to the touch.^{[10]
X
Research source}
- Different manufacturers make different recommendations. For instance, some companies recommend a cold or warm wash setting along with a low tumble dry setting, while other groups recommend a cold wash setting and air-drying.