Caring for Your Toys

Keep your educational toys clean, safe, and long-lasting with these simple care tips for parents and caregivers.
🌳

Wooden Toys

How to Clean Wooden Toys

  • Wipe gently: Use a damp cloth with mild soap to clean wooden toy surfaces. Avoid soaking in water.
  • Dry immediately: Pat dry with a soft towel to prevent moisture damage and warping.
  • Natural disinfectant: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar for safe, natural toy care.

What to Avoid

  • Never submerge wooden toys in water or put them in the dishwasher.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the wood's natural finish.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking.

Optional Maintenance Tip

  • Apply food-grade mineral oil or beeswax polish every few months to maintain the wood's luster and protect the finish.
🟢

Silicone & Rubber Toys

Cleaning Methods

  • Hand wash: Use warm soapy water and a soft brush for thorough cleaning of silicone toys.
  • Dishwasher safe: Most silicone and rubber toys can go on the top rack of your dishwasher for easy cleaning.
  • Boiling option: For deep sanitization, boil silicone toys in water for 3-5 minutes (check manufacturer guidelines first).

Precautions

  • Check for tears or damage before cleaning to prevent water from getting trapped inside.
  • Allow toys to air dry completely before storage to prevent mold growth.
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the silicone surface.
🐻

Plush Toys & Dolls

Hand Wash Instructions

  • Fill a basin with cool water and gentle detergent.
  • Gently squeeze soapy water through the plush toy, avoiding harsh scrubbing.
  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap is removed.

Machine Wash Instructions

  • Place plush toys in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase for protection.
  • Use gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
  • Check care labels first—some toys with electronics or delicate features should not be machine washed.

Drying & Fluff Restoration

  • Air dry: Lay flat or hang to dry naturally. Avoid direct heat or sunlight.
  • Restore fluffiness: Once dry, gently brush with a soft-bristled brush or use a cool hair dryer to fluff up the fur.
🧱

Plastic & Building Blocks

Wiping & Quick Cleaning

  • Use disinfecting wipes or a damp cloth with mild soap for daily cleaning.
  • Wipe down all surfaces, especially areas that come in contact with mouths and hands.

Deep Cleaning (Soaking Method)

  • Fill a large container with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
  • Soak plastic toys and building blocks for 10-15 minutes.
  • Scrub with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry completely.

Important Tips

  • Avoid scratches: Don't use abrasive scrubbers that can create grooves where bacteria can hide.
  • Check small parts: Regularly inspect for loose or broken pieces that could be choking hazards.
  • Store in clean, dry bins to keep toys organized and hygienic.

Electronic & STEM Toys

Safe Cleaning for Electronics

  • Remove batteries first: Always take out batteries before cleaning electronic toys to prevent damage.
  • Wipe carefully: Use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap. Never spray liquid directly on the toy.
  • Dry cloth for screens: Use a microfiber cloth for LCD screens and delicate displays.

Cleaning Delicate Parts

  • Use compressed air to remove dust from crevices, buttons, and circuit areas.
  • Cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol work well for cleaning small, intricate parts.
  • Avoid getting moisture in battery compartments or charging ports.

Storage Tip

  • Store STEM toys and electronic educational toys in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
  • Remove batteries if toys won't be used for extended periods to prevent corrosion.

Extra Tips for Safe & Clean Toys

  • Regular cleaning schedule: Clean frequently-used toys weekly and rotate toys to reduce wear and tear.
  • Inspect for damage: Check toys regularly for broken parts, sharp edges, or loose batteries that could pose safety risks.
  • Safe storage: Use labeled bins or baskets to organize toys by type, making DIY toy maintenance easier.
  • Natural cleaning solutions: Opt for non-toxic, child-safe cleaners like vinegar, baking soda, or mild dish soap.
  • Teach kids hygiene: Encourage children to wash hands before and after playtime to keep toys cleaner longer.
  • Sanitize after illness: Deep clean all toys after your child has been sick to prevent reinfection.
  • Read care labels: Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning educational toys and specialty items.
  • Outdoor toy care: Rinse outdoor toys with a hose and let them dry in the sun for natural sanitization.