How to Clean a Playpen

Before you start

• Check the manual: check the playpen manufacturer's cleaning and washing instructions.
• Take out the toys: remove the toys and accessories from the playpen.
• Vacuum up crumbs: remove crumbs and dust from the base with a vacuum cleaner or a dry cloth.
• Remove the covers: take off the removable mattress and side covers.

How to clean a playpen: step by step

• Add START all-purpose surface cleaner to lukewarm water in the amount on the label. According to its safety data sheet, our START all-purpose surface cleaner has a pH of 7–8.
• Wipe the fabric sides and plastic parts with a cloth dampened with this water and wrung out well.
• Then wipe with a cloth dampened with clean water and wrung out well to remove cleaner residue.
• Let the playpen dry completely in an open, well-ventilated place.
• Put the covers and toys back only once the playpen is completely dry.

Mesh sides

Wipe food and milk residue on the mesh sides with a well-wrung damp cloth before it dries. Soften dried residue by leaving the damp cloth on it for a few minutes, then remove it from the mesh with a soft brush. Do not stretch the mesh or scrape it with a sharp object; if the mesh tears, stop using the playpen and use the manufacturer's spare part. After cleaning, wipe the mesh with a clean damp cloth and leave it to dry.

How to wash a playpen mattress

• If the mattress cover is removable, wash it in the machine as long as the label allows, using TETİK detergent for coloureds at the dose on the label, and add an extra rinse.
• Do not submerge the foam inside the cover; foam dries slowly and moisture can remain inside.
• Wipe a mattress whose cover does not come off with a well-wrung cloth dampened with diluted surface cleaner and rinse it with a clean damp cloth.
• Do not put the mattress and cover back in the playpen until they are completely dry.
• For washing baby textiles: how to wash baby clothes.

Folding frame

• Wipe the plastic and metal frame with a well-wrung damp cloth and dry it.
• Do not let water get into the folding mechanism and locks; do not apply oil or solvents.
• Check that the locks work properly every time you set it up.
• For pushchairs and high chairs: how to clean a pushchair, how to clean a high chair.

How to wash ball pit balls

Put the ball pit balls in a large mesh bag or straight into the bathtub. Fill the tub with lukewarm water, add a little TETİK Dishwashing Liquid and wash the balls by stirring them with your hand. Drain the water, rinse the balls several times with clean water and spread them on a large towel to dry completely. Set aside dented, punctured or cracked balls. For plastic toys, see the guide how to clean toys.

Stains

• For milk stains: how to remove milk stains.
• For vomit stains: how to remove vomit stains.
• Remove stains without delay by blotting, not rubbing.
• For stains that do not come out, consult the manufacturer's advice.

What not to do

• Using bleach and degreaser on the playpen.
• Submerging the mattress foam in water.
• Applying water or oil to the folding mechanism.
• Using the playpen without wiping off cleaner residue.
• Setting up the playpen and covers while damp.

For nurseries and children's play areas

In nurseries, kindergartens and shopping centre play areas, playpens and ball pits are used throughout the day; wiping fabric and plastic surfaces daily, washing covers in rotation, washing and drying ball pit balls at regular intervals and setting aside damaged parts make for a consistent routine. For a daily routine, see our guide how to clean a nursery. START All-Purpose Surface Cleaner is produced in 5 L, TETİK detergent for coloureds in 4 kg and TETİK Dishwashing Liquid in 750 g, 5 kg, 20 kg and 30 kg packs; for bulk purchases you can request a quote.