How to Disinfect Toys: Essential Tips for Safety
How to Disinfect Toys?
To disinfect toys, there are several methods depending on the type of toy.
Solid plastic toys and bath toys can be cleaned with disinfectant wipes, in the dishwasher (top rack), or soaked in a bleach solution.
Washable plush toys can be machine-washed in a laundry mesh bag on a gentle cycle and air dried.
For non-washable plush toys, spot clean with warm water and hand soap, followed by air drying.
Electronic toys should be turned off, unplugged, and wiped with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe, allowing the surface to air dry.
Wooden toys should be wiped with mild dish soap or diluted vinegar and water, then air dried.
Outdoor toys should be washed with hot soapy water, rinsed with a hose, and air dried.
Board books can be wiped with a disinfecting wipe or damp cloth with soapy water, and hardcover books can be wiped on the front and back only.
Paper books cannot be cleaned, but can be placed in quarantine for two weeks if necessary.
The frequency of cleaning toys depends on usage and location, with plastic and bath toys cleaned at least once a week, baby toys cleaned daily or every other day if chewed on or dropped on the floor, and washable plush toys cleaned once a week if played with daily.
Electronic toys should be wiped down weekly, and toys should be cleaned daily when a child is sick, when they are visibly dirty, and after playdates with other children.
Nice ‘N CLEAN Disinfecting Wipes are effective against common cold and flu viruses, bacteria like E.coli and Salmonella, and other germs.
Key Points:
- Solid plastic toys and bath toys can be cleaned with disinfectant wipes, in the dishwasher (top rack), or soaked in a bleach solution.
- Washable plush toys can be machine-washed in a laundry mesh bag on a gentle cycle and air dried.
- Non-washable plush toys should be spot cleaned with warm water and hand soap, followed by air drying.
- Electronic toys should be turned off, unplugged, and wiped with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe, allowing the surface to air dry.
- Wooden toys should be wiped with mild dish soap or diluted vinegar and water, then air dried.
- Outdoor toys should be washed with hot soapy water, rinsed with a hose, and air dried.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that Barbie dolls are made with a type of plastic that possesses built-in antimicrobial properties? This means that they naturally resist the growth of bacteria, making them easier to keep clean and disinfect.
2. One of the most effective ways to disinfect soft toys is by placing them in a clean pillowcase and running them through a high-heat dryer cycle for about 15-20 minutes. The heat will kill off any bacteria or viruses without compromising the integrity of the toys.
3. Legos, those beloved building blocks, can safely be washed in a mesh laundry bag in the top rack of a dishwasher. Just be sure to remove any stickers beforehand, and avoid using high heat or a steam sanitizing cycle to prevent warping.
4. Stuffed animals can harbor dust mites, so if you have one that cannot be washed, try placing it in a plastic bag and sealing it tightly. Then, freeze it overnight to kill off any dust mites and prevent allergies.
5. You can make a natural and effective toy disinfectant at home by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can kill many common germs, and it’s safe to use on most toys. Just be sure to avoid using it on electronic or battery-operated toys.
Types Of Toys And Cleaning Methods
Toys are an essential part of a child’s life, providing entertainment, exploration, and learning opportunities. However, these beloved playthings can also harbor bacteria, viruses, allergens, mold, and dirt/grime, which can pose health risks to children.
It is crucial to clean and disinfect toys regularly to maintain a safe and hygienic environment for your little ones.
Different types of toys require different cleaning methods:
- Solid plastic toys, such as building blocks or action figures, can be easily cleaned with disinfectant wipes, in the dishwasher (top rack), or by soaking them in a bleach solution (dilute one tablespoon of bleach in one gallon of water, soak the toys for five minutes, rinse thoroughly, and air dry).
Remember to prioritize your child’s safety by keeping their toys clean and free from harmful substances.
Cleaning Solid Plastic And Bath Toys
Bath toys, including rubber ducks and water squirters, can be cleaned using the same methods as solid plastic toys. However, the main concern with bath toys is the potential for mold growth if they are not dried completely after each use. To prevent mold, it’s important to follow these steps:
- Shake or squeeze bath toys vigorously after each bath to remove excess water.
- Store bath toys in an area that allows for air drying, such as a mesh bag or a hanging organizer.
- Dispose of any bath toys that show visible mold growth or are filled with moldy water, as they can pose a health hazard to young children.
Remember to take these precautions to keep bath toys clean and safe for your child.
Cleaning Washable And Non-Washable Plush Toys
Plush toys are often the favorite companions of children. To clean washable plush toys, start by checking the care label or the toymaker’s website for specific cleaning instructions. Perform a colorfast test by dampening a small, inconspicuous area of the toy and blotting it with a white cloth. If no color transfers to the cloth, proceed with washing the toy.
- Machine-wash washable plush toys in a laundry mesh bag or pillowcase on a gentle cycle with a low-heat setting.
- Alternatively, you can hand wash them in a sink filled with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- After washing, air dry or use a hair dryer on a low-heat setting for gentle drying. Remember to fluff and reshape the toy after it has dried completely.
For non-washable plush toys, spot clean them by using warm water and a small amount of hand soap or dish soap. Gently scrub the dirty areas with a sponge or cloth, then wipe the toy with a damp cloth to remove any soapy residue. Allow the toy to air dry or use a hair dryer for faster drying. To kill bacteria and allergens on plush toys, you can also use a garment steamer.
Cleaning Electronic Toys
Electronic toys, such as interactive learning devices or musical instruments, require special care when cleaning. Always refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines for specific instructions.
In general, you should start by turning off, unplugging, and removing the batteries from the toy.
To surface clean electronic toys, use a damp paper towel or cloth to wipe dirty spots. Then, use a disinfectant wipe to thoroughly clean the surface. Allow the surface to remain wet for the recommended contact time stated on the disinfectant wipe packaging. Afterward, let the toy air dry.
Before allowing your child to play with the toy again, wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any residue and let it air dry once more.
Cleaning Wooden And Outdoor Toys
Wooden toys are timeless classics, but specific care is required to ensure their longevity and cleanliness. It is essential to check the manufacturer’s care instructions for guidelines.
To clean wooden toys, avoid soaking them in water, as it can cause warping or damage the finish. Instead, wipe wooden toys using a clean cloth or sponge dampened with a mixture of mild dish soap or vinegar diluted with water. Gently scrub the surface to remove any dirt or grime. After cleaning, allow the toys to air dry thoroughly before returning them to play.
Outdoor toys, such as swings or playsets, are exposed to various elements and dirt. Begin by removing visible dirt and grime from these toys using hot soapy water. Use a hose to rinse off any remaining soap. Allow the toys to air dry completely before letting children play with them again. For stubborn stains or tough grime, consider using a mild detergent or a specialized cleanser designed for outdoor toys.
- Check manufacturer’s care instructions for guidelines
- Avoid soaking wooden toys in water to prevent warping or damage to the finish
- Wipe wooden toys with a mixture of mild dish soap or vinegar diluted with water
- Scrub gently to remove dirt or grime
- Air dry thoroughly before returning toys to play
For outdoor toys:
- Remove visible dirt and grime using hot soapy water
- Rinse off remaining soap with a hose
- Air dry completely before allowing children to play
- Use a mild detergent or specialized cleanser for stubborn stains or tough grime
Frequency Of Cleaning Toys
The frequency at which toys should be cleaned depends on their usage and location. Plastic and bath toys should be washed at least once a week to prevent the build-up of dirt, bacteria, and mold. Baby toys, especially those that are chewed on or frequently dropped on the floor, should be washed daily or every other day.
Washable plush toys should be washed once a week if they are played with daily. Non-washable plush toys can be spot cleaned using warm water and hand soap or dish soap. Electronic toys should be wiped down weekly, following the manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines. It is also essential to clean toys daily when a child is sick, after playdates with other children, and when toys become visibly dirty.
When cleaning toys, it is crucial to choose effective and reliable disinfecting wipes like Nice ‘N CLEAN Disinfecting Wipes. These wipes are proven to be effective against common cold and flu viruses, bacteria like E.coli and Salmonella, and other germs, ensuring your child’s safety during playtime.
By adopting these cleaning and disinfecting practices, parents can help provide a healthier and safer environment for their children. Regular maintenance and care will promote the longevity of toys while also protecting young ones from potential health hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you disinfect toys naturally?
To naturally disinfect toys, you can skip the harsh chemicals and opt for a simple yet effective method using vinegar and water. By creating a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, you can successfully clean and disinfect toys without any eco-unfriendly chemicals. For added fragrance, you can incorporate a few drops of essential oil to reduce the smell of vinegar. This natural cleaning solution not only enhances safety but also promotes an eco-friendly approach to toy maintenance.
How do you sterilize children’s toys?
To sterilize children’s toys, opt for a diluted bleach spray solution. Combine one-quarter teaspoon of bleach with one quart of water and lightly spray the toys, making sure not to saturate them. Afterward, simply wipe them down with a soft, dry cloth. Alternatively, you can use a combination of vinegar and water for sterilization purposes.
What is safe to disinfect baby toys?
A safe and effective way to disinfect baby toys is by using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. By combining equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle, you can thoroughly sanitize the toys. After spraying the solution onto the toys, make sure to let them air dry completely before allowing your baby to play with them again. This method will effectively eliminate any harmful bacteria and keep your baby’s toys clean and safe.
Alternatively, you can use a non-toxic disinfectant spray specifically designed for baby toys. These sprays are formulated to be gentle yet effective at killing germs and bacteria. Simply follow the instructions on the spray bottle, and ensure that you thoroughly cover all surfaces of the toys. After spraying, allow the disinfectant to sit for a few minutes before wiping it off or letting the toys air dry. This method provides an easy and safe way to keep your baby’s toys germ-free.
How do you disinfect toys without chemicals?
One effective method for disinfecting toys without chemicals is by using steam. Steam cleaning can penetrate the surface of the toys, effectively killing bacteria and germs. A handheld steam cleaner or a clothes steamer can be used to steam the toys. Simply hold the steam cleaner close to the toy and move it back and forth to ensure thorough disinfection. Allow the toys to dry completely before use to prevent moisture buildup. Another natural option is to disinfect toys with vinegar. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar and use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the toys. Vinegar is known for its antimicrobial properties, making it an effective and eco-friendly solution for toy disinfection.