Mould on car seat straps - dangerous?

[Bobian123]

We've got DS's car seat out of the garage ready for DD's arrival (Maxi cosi pebble).. Annoyingly, there are a few mould spots on the straps. Tried spot cleaning and am not sure about using anything like vinegar on them as I worry this could weaken the fabric if left to soak.

DH thinks the spots won't cause any kind of health issue and I'm pretty sure he's right, but does anyone have a view on this?

Thanks

[poisonedbypen]

Oh, for goodness sake! Just scrub it off. Vinegar won't harm it although I can't see why that would do better than scrubbing.

[MrsChiefTyrell]

Washing machine? Or I'd probably soak them overnight in a sink of water with washing powder.

[drinkscabinet]

Vinegar is acidic and won't be as effective at removing biological stains as washing powder which is mainly sodium carbonate and is an alkaline solution. If you want something 'gentler' you could soak in a solution of baking soda/bicarbonate of soda (aka sodium bicarbonate) which would also help remove the mould stains.

[ArriettyMatilda]

Not sure about what you can use but saw this photo earlier, and it seems to suggest washing machine would be a bad idea as they would be submerged.

[Singleandproud]

Not the same thing but I used to work as an outdoor activity centre instructor and we used to have to destroy and throw climbing harnesses away that had mold on them as they were no longer safe to climb with as the mold could apparently weaken the webbing.

[Bobian123]

poisonedbypen not sure why you sound exasperated. As my OP states I've already tried spot cleaning (by scrubbing, sorry I didn't clarify specifically). Was just asking for advice.
Thanks to everyone else for your suggestions. I don't think I can take the straps off but will have a look. single that's what I was a bit worried about so appreciate you raising it.

[WhyOWhyWouldYou]

Mold can release little spores, particularly on something that moves. These spores could be breathed in by baby and are harmful (especially for a newborn).

www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/Can-damp-and-mould-affect-my-health.aspx?CategoryID=87&

Also I would be concerned re single's point.

You can probably buy just new straps though - contact the manufacturer and ask. Then the covers and that should be fine once washed.

[Bobian123]

Thanks why. I contacted maxi cosi this morn and they suggested bicarbonate of soda and lemon juice as a safe way of removing the mold. If that doesn't work. They can pick up and replace the harness for £40 (!). I'll try the lemon thing first