How to Clean and Disinfect Your Children’s Toys

Children’s toys are more than just sources of entertainment—they are essential tools for development and learning. However, because they are handled so frequently, toys can also become breeding grounds for germs, bacteria, and viruses. Keeping your child’s toys clean and disinfected is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment. In this guide, we’ll walk you through effective ways to clean and disinfect your children’s toys, ensuring they remain safe and hygienic.

1. Understanding the Materials 

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to consider the materials of the toys. Different materials require different cleaning methods:

• Plastic and Rubber: These are generally easy to clean and can withstand most cleaning agents.
• Wooden Toys: Wood is porous and should not be soaked in water, as it can warp and crack.
• Fabric Toys: These can often be machine washed, but check the care label for instructions.
• Electronic Toys: These require careful cleaning to avoid damaging the components.

2. Clean Your Children’s Toys Regularly

Regular cleaning is essential to keep toys free from dirt and grime. Here’s how to handle different types:

• Plastic and Rubber Toys: These can be washed with warm soapy water. For added disinfecting power, mix a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the toys, and then rinse them thoroughly with water. Let them air dry or wipe them down with a clean towel.
• Wooden Toys: Use a damp cloth to wipe down wooden toys, avoiding excess moisture. If disinfecting is necessary, lightly spray with a solution of vinegar and water, then wipe dry immediately. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the wood.
• Fabric Toys: Many fabric toys, such as stuffed animals, can be machine washed. Place them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them during the wash. Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent. To disinfect, add a bit of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat. For toys that can’t be machine washed, spot clean with a mild soap and water solution.
• Electronic Toys: For toys with batteries or electronic components, wipe them down with a damp cloth dipped in soapy water. Avoid getting water into any openings. For disinfecting, use a cloth lightly moistened with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution, being careful to avoid any electrical components.

3. Deep Clean and Disinfect Your Children’s Toys

In addition to routine cleaning, toys should be disinfected regularly, especially after illness or playdates. Here are some effective methods:

• Disinfecting Plastic Toys: After cleaning, plastic toys can be disinfected by soaking them in a bleach solution (1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water). Allow them to soak for five minutes, then rinse thoroughly and let them air dry. Alternatively, use a disinfecting wipe or spray that is safe for children’s items.
• Disinfecting Wooden Toys: Wooden toys are more delicate, so avoid using bleach. A diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) can be sprayed onto the surface and wiped clean. Allow the toys to air dry completely before returning them to your child.
• Disinfecting Fabric Toys: For a more thorough disinfection, fabric toys that are safe to wash can be placed in the washing machine with a laundry sanitiser. For toys that cannot be washed, consider using a handheld steamer to disinfect, as the heat will kill most germs.
• Disinfecting Electronic Toys: Use a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or a cloth dampened with the alcohol solution to gently wipe down the surfaces. Avoid using excessive liquid to prevent damage to electronic parts. Let the toys air dry completely before use.

4. Preventive Measures

Keeping toys clean between deep cleans is also important. Here are a few tips:

• Hand Hygiene: Encourage children to wash their hands before and after playing with toys. This reduces the transfer of germs.
• Toy Rotation: Regularly rotate toys in and out of use. This not only keeps playtime interesting but also gives you a chance to clean toys that are temporarily out of circulation.
• Storage Solutions: Store toys in clean, dry areas to prevent dust accumulation. Use sealed containers for smaller toys to keep them clean when not in use.

5. When to Replace Toys

No matter how well you clean, some toys may reach a point where they are no longer safe or hygienic. Look out for:

• Cracked or Broken Toys: These can harbour bacteria and may no longer be safe for play.
• Worn Out Fabric Toys: If fabric toys are losing their stuffing or have persistent odours even after cleaning, it may be time to replace them.
• Outgrown Toys: Regularly assess whether toys are still age-appropriate and in good condition. Donating or recycling outgrown toys keeps your collection manageable and clean.

Conclusion

Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your children’s toys is a vital step in maintaining a healthy home environment. By understanding the materials, employing effective cleaning methods, and taking preventive measures, you can ensure that your children’s toys remain safe and hygienic. 

And if home cleaning is not your cup of tea, you can delegate that task to a professional home cleaner. Feel free to contact us and request a cleaning quote. You can find more info about our cleaning services at Merci Cleaning London or on our official Facebook page. 

You may also like: 5 reasons for hiring a professional house cleaner

Did You Find the Article on How to Clean and Disinfect Your Children’s Toys Helpful?

If you liked this article, please share with your friends and family who might also be interested in hiring a professional cleaner. 

We would also love to hear your opinion and thoughts! You can leave your comments in the box below.

A huge thank you from Merci Cleaning London!