How to Clean a High Chair: Step-by-Step for Busy Parents
By Cosco Kids US Official Site | Car Seats, Strollers, & Baby Gear | Published: 2026-10-15
Category: Tips & Care
A practical, step-by-step high chair cleaning routine for busy parents. Learn how to remove food stains, clean the tray and straps, and keep mealtimes hygienic.
Quick answer
Clean a high chair by removing crumbs and loose food first, then wiping the tray, seat, and frame with a damp cloth and mild soap. For a deep clean, unclip the straps and wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions, and use a soft brush for crevices. Do this after every messy meal and a full deep clean weekly to prevent stains and odors.
Why a consistent high chair cleaning routine matters
Food left on a high chair can harden, stain, and become a breeding ground for bacteria. A quick wipe after each meal prevents most buildup, while a weekly deep clean tackles hidden crumbs and sticky residue. If your high chair has a wipeable seat pad, like the Simple Fold high chair, daily maintenance takes less than a minute.
Gather your cleaning supplies
Before you start, collect a damp cloth or sponge, mild dish soap, a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works well), and a dry towel. Avoid abrasive cleaners or rough scrubbing pads that can scratch plastic trays. If your high chair has fabric straps, check the care label first; some are machine washable, others are surface-clean only.
Step-by-step high chair cleaning
- Clear loose food and crumbs: Tip the tray over a trash can or use a damp paper towel to sweep crumbs into the bin. Remove any large pieces of food from the seat and crevices. Common mistake: skipping this step and smearing crumbs into a paste when you wipe.
- Wipe the tray and seat: Use a cloth dampened with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap. Wipe the tray, seat pad, and frame. For sticky residue, let the damp cloth sit for a minute before wiping. Checkpoint: the tray should feel smooth, not tacky, when dry.
- Clean the straps: Remove the straps if your high chair allows. Hand wash with mild soap and warm water, then air dry completely before reattaching. If they are not removable, wipe with a damp cloth and a little soap, then dry with a towel. Common mistake: putting straps in the dryer, which can shrink or damage the webbing.
- Scrub crevices and buckles: Use a soft brush to dislodge crumbs from the buckle, harness slots, and the seam between the seat and frame. A toothbrush reaches tight spots without scratching. Checkpoint: run your finger along the crevices—no grit should remain.
- Dry thoroughly: Wipe all surfaces with a dry towel or let them air dry completely before the next meal. Moisture left in straps or crevices can encourage mold. Common mistake: reassembling while still damp, which can lead to mildew.
- Deep clean weekly: Once a week, remove the seat pad if possible and wash it according to the care label. Wipe down the entire frame, legs, and underside of the tray. For tough stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply, then wipe off. Checkpoint: set a recurring reminder so deep cleaning doesn't slip.
High chairs that make cleaning easier
- Simple Fold™ High Chair: The Simple Fold High Chair has a wipeable seat pad and a full-size, 3-position adjustable tray that grows with your child. A wipeable pad means fewer deep cleans, and the adjustable tray gives extra room as your child grows, so you can clean around the tray without removing it.
- Simple Fold™ LX High Chair: The Simple Fold LX High Chair also features a wipeable seat pad and a full-size, 3-position adjustable tray. Like the standard model, the LX is designed for easy cleanup, so you can spend less time scrubbing and more time with your baby.
