From fabric to plastic here is how to properly clean and disinfect baby toys. Let’s begin by discussing how often toys should be cleaned. If you have toddlers and babies they love to put things in their mouth, those toys specifically should be cleaned daily. Toys should be cleaned and sanitized after a child has been sick, and after a play date. otherwise a toy cleaning schedule of once a month should suffice apart from daily toys that are used (those can be wiped down once a week).The Next step is to make sure you are using the correct method to clean each type of toy with which we will break down next:
Plastic Toys:
Plastic toys can be cleaned in many different ways. Plastic toys with no buttons, batteries, or fabrics can be washed in the dishwasher. For this method use a gentle cycle and let air dry. A mesh bag or lingerie bag can keep the toys from falling through the racks and smaller toys can be kept in the silverware tray.They can be wiped down with a 50/50 mixture of distilled vinegar and soapy water. Another method is a toy bath of ½ cup of bleach to a gallon of water, or a 5 minute scrub with this same mixture and rinse with warm water.
Fabric Toys:
Fabric toys can be sprayed with a 50/50 mixture of rubbing alcohol and water and let stand for a minute. This can be done once a week. For delicate fabric toys spot cleaning and the above mentioned spray mix are a great method of cleaning. For these delicate fabrics a spot clean can consist of a gentle laundry detergent and lukewarm water mixture or a dish detergent and lukewarm water. Some fabric toys such as stuffed animals can also be put in the washing machine on a gentle cycle the same as you would any of baby’s delicate clothes and left to air dry.
Wood Toys:
Natural wood toys can be warped if submerged in water so the best method of cleaning will be to use the above mentioned distilled vinegar mixture. Use a lint free cloth, dip it in the mixture, wipe down and let air dry. You may also want to wash with mild soapy water but will need to rinse with a damp cloth of water to get rid of any residue and let air dry.
Metal Toys:
These types of toys should be wiped clean with a bleach and water mixture like mentioned above and left to air dry. Keep in mind these metal toys may have other parts such as rubber so do not throw these in the dishwasher.
A good toy cleaning schedule as healthy and safe.mentioned above will keep you from going crazy with these cleanings. These practical solutions will help you clean safely and effectively. Children rarely remain clean for long but by cleaning their play space you can help keep them
