6 Tricks For Cleaning Up Kids' Messes Because Life Happens

The things that once grossed you out before you had kids become part of a typical day when you're a parent. After dealing with gooey, sticky, and slimy messes, many parents become pros in the cleanup department. However, certain things like craft time and potty training take the tidying to an entirely different (and possibly disgusting) level. Check out these tips for dealing with some of the more frustrating messes that come along with parenthood.

01
Get Rid of the Glitter That Sticks Around
Flickr user Behan

Get Rid of the Glitter That Sticks Around

Glitter is certainly the gift that keeps on giving, and as much as you cherish your child's artwork, you may not enjoy the aftermath all over your house for what feels like the rest of life. Before the glitter ends up everywhere, use a lint roller dedicated to craft time to trap the sparkly particles.

02
Remove Stains From Blowout Diapers
Flickr user dutchbaby

Remove Stains From Blowout Diapers

Ah, the joys of blowout diapers. Instead of stressing about poo stains in your favorite little outfit, try leaving the wrecked item in the sun to dry. The sun naturally bleaches clothing and you might just be surprised with how well it helps get rid of stubborn poop stains after an item of clothing has been washed.

03
Cure Mattresses of Stains When They Wet the Bed
Flickr user minjungkim

Cure Mattresses of Stains When They Wet the Bed

Even if you have a waterproof mattress pad, it's possible for your little one to stain their bed during the potty training phases. To prevent a permanent mark, either use fabric cleaner or make your own by mixing water, vinegar, and a bit of detergent. Dab it over the stain and let it stand for 15 minutes before putting some baking soda over the wet area. After 10 minutes, vacuum up any remaining powder and you'll see that the stain has been lifted.

04
Save Potty Training Undies
Flickr user Todd Morris

Save Potty Training Undies

If your little one has ever pooped in his new big-boy underwear, you've probably struggled with the best way to clean it up. Instead of soaking them in your bathtub (and having remaining poo particles to clean up), wash the underwear in a freshly flushed toilet before throwing it in your washing machine.

05
Get Those Dirty Shoes Finally Clean
Flickr user Bunches and Bits {Karina}

Get Those Dirty Shoes Finally Clean

With how quickly your kid outgrows their shoes, you want to keep them looking great before you have to run out and buy a new pair. But with active littles ones running around, the soles can get pretty nasty in record time. Luckily, a Magic Eraser can help!

06
Get Play-Doh Out of the Carpet
Flickr user Chris Parfitt

Get Play-Doh Out of the Carpet

There's nothing better than spending a quiet chunk of time getting creative with your kiddo. But when some Play-Doh gets knocked to the ground and accidentally gets mashed into the carpet, it can quickly put a damper on the afternoon. Instead of trying to get the Play-Doh up as soon as possible and potentially staining your carpet, let it completely dry before touching it. Then, try crunching it up and vacuuming it.