How to clean your Car Before you bring your Baby Home
Putting a clean baby car seat in a dirty car is like putting dirty dishes back before washing them. Makes no sense, right? Before you drop your car off to be detailed, take into consideration that it is close to impossible to find a detailer that isn't going to use harsh chemicals in your car. They generally use ammonia, abrasive detergents and chemical based treatments. Sure the car looks clean but do your really want your precious cargo breathing in these toxic chemicals in his or her first few days in this world? Didn't think so!
Finding a 'green' cleaning service is a tough task so you may need to handle this job yourself. Luckily there are a few companies like Simple Green and Seventh Generation that make a vast assortment of non-toxic car cleaning products and degreasers.
Vacuuming the car is a good place to begin. Be sure to get the ceiling of your car too and under the mats. If you do not have a carpet and upholstery cleaner at home you can rent one from most grocery stores for the day. Use a non-chemical cleaner to thoroughly clean the seats, floors and ceiling. Anywhere there is fabric should be cleaned to get germs, dust and dander out (if you have pets). Next, using a chemical free glass cleaner get all of the window and dashboard glass, rear-view mirror and don't neglect the back window. I know it is hard to reach in some cars but it has to be done. In most cases it's probably the first time it's been touched. Last step in the cleaning is to use your multi-purpose cleaner or a simple vinegar and water solution and go over every spot left. Don't forget the seatbelts. Everyone forgets the seatbelts! They get dirty too. An important place to remember when cleaning your car is the door jams. Dust and dirt gets caked inside there and every time you shut your door, particles float out into the car. After the car is thoroughly spotless, reach for a non-toxic disinfectant and spray and wipe down everything!
You have prepared for bringing your baby home for months and your home is probably spotless but the car is equally important. Chemicals in harsh cleaning products can cause long-term health problems like asthma and allergies. Newborns are much more sensitive to scents than adults are so it is important that all they are breathing in is fresh and clean.
About the Author
Asthma is a serious in young children and babies. If you need help on learning how to deal with asthma in children then check out our Buteyko training program.
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