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.