As we sadly say farewell to summer, grey skies and showers mean we are starting to bust out our pram rain covers on a regular basis. A combination of the good old British weather, muddy walks and little, sticky fingers may leave you wondering 'how do I wash my pram rain cover?'
Is your rain cover looking a little worse for wear?
Despite being out in the rain, your pram rain cover still requires washing from time to time. Just like with your car, puddle water, mud and grit can splash up onto your cover, leaving it looking a little worse for wear and in need of some TLC. If your rain cover is looking cloudy, marked by sticky handprints or streaky, it is a signal that is it time to give it a clean. So, next time you are wiping down your pram's frame, why not remove your rain cover for a wash as well?How do I wash my pram rain cover?
Most manufacturers state that rain covers are hand wash only. Be sure to check the label for your rain cover before deciding how to wash it. If it advises against using a washing machine then your best bet is to carefully hand wash the cover to restore it to its former glory. You can contact your particular pram manufacturer for further advice on washing your rain cover, but we’ve got some instructions on hand washing below that should work on most covers.Why shouldn’t I put my rain cover in the washing machine?
Often, waterproof clothing and covers are unsuitable for machine washing. This is due to some laundry detergent breaking down the waterproof coating, alongside the fast-spinning action of the machine damaging the fabric. Additionally, some washing machines feature warnings advising against washing waterproof items in them. This is because placing waterproof items in your washing machine risks unbalancing the load, leading to the washing machine vibrating and becoming damaged. It is therefore important to check the advice on your own machine before making a decision. Whilst some washing machines do include a hand wash setting, your pram rain cover may still be unsuitable for this type of washing. It is important to check with the rain cover manufacturer if you are unsure, as damaging your cover through unadvised washing can affect your warranty. Some machine models do have a waterproof setting, so can be used to wash your pram rain cover. It is important to place your cover in a net bag or pillowcase before washing it in the machine, as this protects the cover from catching and being torn. If you do decide to wash your pram rain cover in the machine, ensure your detergent is suitable for waterproof fabrics. Standard detergents will break down the waterproof layer on your pram cover, so it is important to opt for non-bio washing powders.How to hand wash your rain cover
If you want to err on the side of caution, we recommend hand washing your pram rain cover. Whilst this may be a little more work than sticking it in the machine, hand washing guarantees a long life span for your rain cover and doesn't run the same risks as machine washing. Below, we have put together a step by step guide to leave your rain cover sparkling clean in no time. 1. Firstly, if the rain cover is wet remove it from the pram as soon as possible. We want to avoid leaving it on to dampen the rest of the pram fabric, leaving you with more to clean up. 2. If you’ve got an outside hose, you may want to give the rain cover an initial wash down to remove any dirt or debris. 3. Hang the rain cover somewhere where you can wash it. Perhaps drape it over your washing line (if the rain has stopped) or place it in your bathtub or shower. 4. Using a mild soap or cleaning solution (dish soap like fairy liquid is quite often recommended) and warm water, gently clean the rain cover. Ensure your soap or cleaning solution is suitable for waterproof fabrics first, or opt for a non-bio laundry detergent instead. 5. Rinse it off with cool water and allow it to air dry. 6. Make sure your cover is completely dry before storing away to avoid mould forming. You should now have a nice clean rain cover ready for the next time you get caught in a shower.What should I do if my rain cover is damaged?
If you’ve tried the above tips and your rain cover is beyond help or there is any damage then don’t worry, we stock replacement rain covers for pushchairs, carrycots and car seats. At For Your Little One we know how important it is to be able to get out and about with your baby, knowing that they are safe and secure. Keep your baby protected from the elements with a rain cover and enjoy time outside whatever the weather. We stock universal rain covers suitable for a range of prams, so you don't have to worry about your new cover not fitting your existing pram. If your whole pram needs an upgrade, browse our collection of pushchairs. Whatever you and your baby need, we have it available at For Your Little One.
