So nice to meet you! First off, what’s your name? Tell our readers a bit about yourself—where you’re from originally and where you live now.
Hello! My name is Victoria O'Connor. I currently reside in Hudson, OH but am originally from the west side of Cleveland.
Tell us one thing you love about where you live now?
My husband and I met in college in New England. When we were searching for houses in the Cleveland area, we wanted a town with New England charm and fell in love with Hudson. Hudson provides the rare balance of small-town charm and everyday convenience.
Tell us a little bit more about what your company does and how it started? How does it help your customers?
The Clean Seat Company was born during a career pause I took after the birth of my second child. After years spent in fast-paced startups while balancing graduate studies, I found myself missing the mental stimulation and creative drive that came with building something of my own. I had always dreamed of starting a business, and that moment of clarity came shortly after purchasing my first brand-new car.
Despite my best efforts, it quickly became filled with crumbs, spills, and mystery stains, and I found myself constantly vacuuming my kids’ car seats. I remember thinking—there has to be an easier way for busy caregivers to keep car seats clean.
After a few Google searches turned up little to no solutions, I decided to create one myself. I immersed myself in research, consuming as much educational content as I could, and spent countless nights disassembling car seats and reading manuals.
My goal as a business owner is to become part of your village, helping to lighten the load for busy caregivers. We clean the gear your baby uses every day. It’s a task that can quickly become overwhelming and time-consuming between work, school drop-offs, and extracurricular activities. That’s why we offer two convenient service options—overnight and flexible—designed to fit seamlessly into your schedule.
If your days feel nonstop like mine, and your baby gear is constantly in use, we’ve made the process simple. Just place your items at your doorstep in the evening—we’ll pick them up, clean them overnight, and return them fresh and ready to go the next morning. No extra errands, no disruption to your routine—you don’t even have to leave your home.
We offer a full range of cleaning services, from car seats and strollers to wagons and more. If your baby uses it, we’ll take care of it.
If someone wants to start a business, what advice will help them?
Put your blinders on and just keep going! Don't take 'no' for an answer.
Where do you see your company in the future?
I see my business growing into Cleveland's original and premier baby gear cleaning service.
As the business grows, I want to stay rooted in what matters most: personal service, attention to detail, and treating every item like it belongs to my own family. Long term, I’d love to build strong partnerships with local baby stores, car dealers/detailers, schools and parenting communities so more parents can easily access safe, professional cleaning they can trust.
At the heart of it, I want this to remain a business built on care—growing steadily while never losing the personal touch that started it all.
What is the biggest misconception about your industry?
Taking care of your baby gear can be intimidating. It can feel overwhelming, but the answers are right in front of you in your manual. But if you do need a little help, give us a call!
What has been one of your biggest struggles building your business and how did you deal with it?
Being a solo business owner can feel isolating. I'm learning to trust my judgement and stay disciplined when no one is watching. Listening to entrepreneurship podcasts help me get out of my own head and feel more connected.
Who was your favorite music artist and athlete growing up?
My favorite athlete growing up was Michelle Wee. I played golf in high school and I always admired her poise and uniqueness in the sport.
I love all music! My college roommate and I had a radio show, and we played anything from Fleetwood Mac to Hootie and the Blowfish.
Any shoutouts you want to make?
My husband has always been my biggest cheerleader. He's been a constant in my life and given me the confidence to take chances.
Where can our readers learn more about you and your company?