Quick answer
Caring for your baby carrier accessories comes down to a few simple habits: pre-wash drool pads to activate absorbency, use the dust bag for storage to keep carriers clean, and spot-clean your tote bag as needed. Each accessory needs a slightly different approach, but none require special tools or detergents.
Why accessories need separate care
Your baby carrier itself is built for frequent washing, but accessories like drool pads, dust bags, and tote bags have different materials and purposes. Drool pads are designed to absorb moisture and need an initial wash to work properly. The dust bag is a soft cotton storage solution, not a laundry bag for the machine. The tote bag is sturdy but best kept clean with spot treatment to preserve its shape and handles. Understanding these differences helps you avoid unnecessary wear.
Frequently asked questions about accessory care
How do I clean drool pads?
Wash drool pads before first use to activate absorbency. After that, machine wash them in cold or warm water with like colors. Tumble dry low or air dry. Avoid fabric softeners, which can reduce absorbency over time.
Can I wash the dust bag?
The dust bag is made of cotton and can be hand washed or machine washed on a gentle cycle in cold water. Air dry only—high heat may shrink the fabric. Use the dust bag for storing your carrier between uses, not as a laundry bag for washing the carrier inside it. Store your carrier in the dust bag when not in use to keep it dust-free and ready to go.
How do I care for the Chaos Carried Tote Bag?
Spot clean the tote bag with a damp cloth and mild soap for most stains. If you need a deeper clean, hand wash in cold water and hang to dry. Avoid machine washing or drying, which can warp the shape or damage the handles.
How often should I wash drool pads?
Wash drool pads after each use if they get wet with drool or spit-up. If they're only lightly used, you can rotate between the two pads in the set and wash them every few days. Having a spare set handy makes it easy to always have a clean one. Rotate between the two pads in the set to extend time between washes.
Can I use bleach or stain removers on accessories?
Avoid bleach on all accessories—it can weaken fibers and fade colors. For stubborn stains on drool pads, try a gentle oxygen-based stain remover (like OxiClean) or a soak in cold water with a little white vinegar. Always check the care label first.
How do I store the dust bag when not in use?
Fold the dust bag flat and store it inside your carrier or tote bag. It takes up almost no space and is always handy when you need to pack your carrier for travel or seasonal storage.
Products that make care easier
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Drool Pads: Our drool pads are a cute, practical way to keep your carrier safe from teething dribbles. This set of two covers not only protects but also adds a touch of style to your babywearing setup! Reminder: To kickstart the absorbency, be sure to wash the drool pads before first use. Pre-washing activates the absorbency so the pads actually catch drool instead of letting it soak through to your carrier.
Drool Pads
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Dust Bag: Our cotton dust bags are a soft, thoughtful way to store and carry your hope&plum pieces. Toss your ring sling in one, your wrap, your Lark, even your Kid Lark! Using the dust bag keeps dust and lint off your carrier during storage, extending its life and keeping it ready for your next outing.
Dust Bag
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Chaos Carried Tote Bag: Because parenthood is beautiful chaos—and you need a bag sturdy enough to carry it all. Our 'chaos carried' tote is perfectly sized for your hope&plum baby carrier plus everything else: snacks, diapers, that sippy cup you'll find three days later. The tote is roomy and has long handles for shoulder carry, but its durability depends on occasional spot cleaning rather than machine washing.
