How to clean a potty correctly

Potty training is a huge milestone for young children but, at the same time, it also brings about a whole new set of challenges. One of the most overlooked would be keeping your child’s potty clean and free from harmful bacteria. A hygienic potty doesn’t just keep bacteria at bay, it also encourages your child to feel more comfortable and confident when they are transitioning from nappies. This guide will tell you how to clean a potty correctly and why it’s so important to have a potty cleaning schedule, so you can maintain a hygienic environment for your children.

Why cleaning a potty properly is so important

When your child is learning how to use the potty, you have to be consistent. A dirty potty isn’t just unpleasant to look at; it’s also known for harbouring bacteria, which can lead to illness.

Urine and faeces can leave behind harmful microbes if you do not clean them up properly and, if you have other children present in the home, this can be risky. Lingering odour or even potty stains can also be off-putting to your child, so making sure that it’s sterile is one of the best ways for you to maintain good hygiene habits. Now you know why it’s so important, here’s how to clean a potty correctly.

How to clean a potty properly

Empty the potty

After your child has used the potty, you need to empty the contents into the toilet. This prevents the build-up of odour, and it also inhibits the growth of bacteria as a whole.

Rinse with warm water

Rinse the inside of the potty with warm water. This step is ideal if you want to remove any residue, and it also makes it easier to apply cleaning products.

Wash with mild soap

When you have rinsed the potty, you then need to use mild soap and hot water. Pay attention to the nooks and crannies, as well as under the seat, if you have one. Avoid harsh chemicals here as they could leave behind irritants, as well as harmful residue.

Disinfect to eliminate bacteria

Washing doesn’t kill germs. If you want to kill the germs, then you need to use an antibacterial product. You need one that is suitable to be used around babies and kids, and that has clear manufacturer instructions you can follow.

Allow to dry

You need to allow the potty to air dry. If you cannot do this, then dry it with a clean paper towel instead. Just make sure that you do not use the same cloths that you use for the bathroom because, if you do, this can result in cross-contamination.

Of course, after you have cleaned the potty, it’s a good idea for you to give your hands a good wash with some soap and water, to make sure that you are not spreading bacteria.

Keeping potty fresh between cleans

As well as knowing how to clean a potty correctly, you need to know how to keep it that way. If you want to keep the potty fresh between cleans, then you should use potty liners. If your child is used to going, then this can help you reduce the mess and also makes cleaning much easier.

You should also keep your potty in a nice, well-ventilated area. Spray the potty lightly with an antibacterial spray, as this is a good way for you to maintain freshness as well. Store your supplies nearby, but out of your child’s reach, so you can make it easier to maintain your clean potty.

Deep cleaning your child’s potty

A thorough clean should be done at least once a day; you should do this more often if you know that the potty is being used more often. You should also make sure that you wipe the potty down between uses.

With that said, a proper daily cleaning is the best way for you to make sure that bacteria don’t have the chance to grow. Milton products are suitable to clean and disinfect your potty daily by wiping it with Milton solution or the Antibacterial Surface Spray or Wipes for example.

If you have any questions, you can always get in touch with us or explore more topics in our parent advice section.