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How to sanitize baby high chair tray: Step-by-Step

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Easily sanitize your baby’s high chair tray with E-Cloth—simple, effective cleaning using just water for a safer, chemical-free surface.

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How to sanitize baby high chair tray: Step-by-Step

Tools:

E-Cloth
Mild dish soap
Soft sponge
Paper towel
Bleach

Remove and Pre-Clean

Detach the high chair tray from the seat. Scrape off leftover food with a paper towel or a plastic spatula.
Rinse the tray under warm running water to remove loose debris.

Wash Thoroughly

Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub all surfaces of the tray, paying extra attention to crevices and joints.
Rinse the tray well with warm water to remove all soap residue.

Sanitize with Bleach Solution

Prepare a sanitizing solution by mixing 1 tablespoon of bleach in 1 gallon of water.
Submerge the tray in the solution for about 2 minutes to ensure effective sanitization.
If submerging isn’t possible, wipe all surfaces thoroughly using a clean cloth soaked in the solution.

Final Rinse and Dry

Rinse the tray thoroughly with clean, cool water to wash away any residual bleach.
Dry the tray with a clean towel or let it air dry completely before reattaching it to the high chair.

Precautions:

Use Baby-Safe Products

Choose non-toxic, fragrance-free cleaners that are safe for baby items.

Read Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Follow the high chair tray's care instructions to avoid voiding warranties or causing damage.

Test on a Hidden Spot

Apply the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration.

Avoid Abrasive Tools

Steer clear of scrubbers or brushes that can scratch or weaken the tray’s surface.

Work in a Well-Ventilated Area

Ensure proper ventilation when using cleaning agents to avoid inhaling any fumes.

Keep Cleaning Supplies Separate

Store cleaning products away from the baby’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.

Dry Thoroughly After Sanitizing

Make sure the tray is completely dry to prevent bacterial growth and keep the surface safe for your baby.

How to Correctly Sanitize The Baby high chair tray: Extra Tips

Pre-Cleaning Inspection

Remove the Tray: Detach the tray from the high chair to make cleaning easier and ensure you can reach all surfaces.
Check for Leftovers: Brush off food crumbs and debris with a soft brush or disposable cloth before applying liquid cleaners.
Safety First: Ensure the tray material is suitable for the type of sanitizer you plan to use by checking manufacturer guidelines.

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Effective Cleaning Technique

Pre-Soak If Needed: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and a small amount of baby-safe dish soap; let the tray sit for a few minutes to loosen grime.
Deep Clean: Use a mild sponge or cloth to scrub all areas, paying extra attention to crevices where food can get trapped.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the tray under running water to remove any soap residue that might irritate your baby’s skin.

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Sanitizing Process

Choose the Right Sanitizer: Use a baby-safe disinfectant or a vinegar-water solution (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) to ensure safe sanitization.
Apply Evenly: Spray or wipe the solution across all surfaces of the tray, ensuring even coverage.
Allow Contact Time: Let the solution sit for at least 3-5 minutes to effectively eliminate germs and bacteria.

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Drying and Reassembly

Air Dry Completely: Place the tray in an area with good airflow or use a clean cloth to dry it thoroughly, preventing moisture buildup.
Inspect Again: Once dry, re-examine the tray for any missed spots or potential damage that may require further attention.
Reattach Securely: Once satisfied with its cleanliness, reattach the tray to the high chair ensuring it’s secure and properly aligned.

Common Mistakes When Sanitizing Baby high chair tray

Incorrect Disassembly

Avoid cleaning the tray as a whole. Not removing the tray or its detachable parts can lead to water trapped in crevices, promoting mildew growth.
Ensure you separate removable parts. Taking apart where possible allows for a deeper, more hygienic clean.

Using Harsh Chemicals

Steer clear of heavy-duty cleaners. Bleach or abrasive agents can damage the material and leave harmful residues.
Opt for child-safe cleaning solutions. Use mild, non-toxic cleaners that are both effective and safe for baby items.

Insufficient Drying and Disinfection

Do not leave moisture behind. Failing to dry the tray completely encourages bacterial growth in damp crevices.
Follow up with proper disinfecting. Even with thorough cleaning, ensure that all areas are disinfected to prevent potential germs and bacteria.

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How Often to Sanitize Baby high chair tray

Sanitize After Every Use

Prevent Germ Buildup: Every meal can leave behind food particles and bacteria. Sanitizing after each use ensures that germs don't multiply and cause nasty surprises.
Keep It Safe: Babies have sensitive immune systems. A clean, sanitized tray minimizes exposure to harmful bacteria that could lead to infections or upset tummies.
Immediate Contamination Removal: Meal remnants can quickly become a breeding ground for microbes. Sanitizing immediately stops the spread of bacteria, especially when the tray is frequently used throughout the day.

Consider a Deep Sanitation Daily

Thorough Cleaning: Even if you sanitize after every use, it's important to do a deep clean once per day. This ensures that any residue or bacteria that may have been missed is completely eradicated.
Handle Sticky Build-up: Sticky or stubborn residues can linger despite a quick wipe. A daily deep clean with a proper sanitizing agent softens and loosens this build-up, leaving the tray spotless.
Prevention of Cross-Contamination: If the tray is used between different meals or even shared among siblings, a full daily sanitation reduces the risk of transferring germs from one instance of use to another.

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