No, you should never machine wash a Peg Perego car seat. Machine washing, even on a gentle cycle, can severely damage the seat's critical safety components. The agitation and spinning can compromise the structural integrity of the harness straps, weaken the fabric's fire-retardant properties, and damage the plastic shell or internal energy-absorbing foam (EPS foam). This damage is often not visible but can render the seat unsafe in a collision. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions, which explicitly recommend hand cleaning only.
The correct way to clean the seat involves removing the fabric cover according to the manual. Hand wash it separately in lukewarm water using a mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners. For the harness straps, wipe them down with a damp cloth; never submerge the straps, as water can degrade the internal webbing. After cleaning, let all parts air dry completely away from direct heat sources before reassembling. The harness and buckles should only be cleaned with water; no soap should be used on these critical components to prevent malfunction.
| Cleaning Component | Recommended Method | Important Precautions |
|---|
| Fabric Cover | Hand wash, lukewarm water, mild detergent | Do not bleach. Do not iron. Air dry completely. |
| Harness Straps | Wipe with damp cloth | Never submerge in water. Do not use soap or chemicals. |
| Plastic Shell / Buckle | Wipe with damp cloth | Ensure buckle mechanism is free of food debris. Do not lubricate. |
| Internal EPS Foam | Do not wash | If soiled, gently wipe with a damp cloth. Never saturate. |
| Drying Time | Air dry naturally | Do not use a hair dryer, clothes dryer, or place in direct sunlight. |
Following these steps ensures your child's car seat remains safe and functional. The primary rule is to always consult your specific model's manual, as guidelines can vary slightly between different Peg Perego seats.
