Baby toys are a great way to introduce your child to the world’s many wonders. And yet these also come with their fair share of messes.

If your little one is teething, they may also love munching on these. From stuffed animals to rattles, they bring imaginative play to a new level.

But as your baby grows sooner than you might think, those toys begin picking up dirt and grime across your house and lose their “spark.” That’s when it’s time to learn how to clean baby toys properly.

Cleaning is necessary to keep children healthy. Safety risks can occur when it’s done incorrectly.

Read below for proper instructions on how to clean baby toys.

Read the Manual

Reading the manual to clean baby toys is an excellent habit for parents to get into. Without the manual, improper cleaning could damage the toy’s integrity and contaminate it with bacteria.

It provides essential guidance on which cleaning methods are suitable for a specific toy and which are not. For example, some toys may need wiping with a damp cloth or a mild cleaning solution, while others may need to be immersed in water and washed with soap. Also, this shows how to clean electronic components.

Soak and Scrub

Fill a bucket or sink with warm, soapy water. Submerge the non-electronic toys and let them soak for 10 minutes.

After soaking, please pick up the toys and scrub them with a soft brush. Make sure to get into all the small crevices and grooves of the toy.

Disinfect with Natural Solutions

Natural solutions are a great way to clean and disinfect toys without harsh and harmful chemicals. Combine 3/4 cup of white vinegar with 1/4 cup of water. Wipe down the surfaces of toys with a damp cloth or paper towel.

Lemon juice is also a safe alternative with a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or tea tree oil for added protection and fragrance. For toys that contain electronics and cannot be submerged in water, alcohol wipes are a great option.

Sanitize Toys with Ultraviolet Light

The UV light sanitizing process works by breaking down the germ cell’s outer membrane and exposing them to radiation. It is more time efficient than traditional methods making it a great option after using natural solutions.

When used correctly, it won’t damage the toys and will kill bacteria, viruses, and other harmful organisms. It is great for car seats, dolls, and other playthings such as push and rocking toys.

Store Cleaned Toys

After cleaning baby toys, store them in containers with a lid, like plastic tubs or baskets. It will help to keep them clean and away from dust and debris.

Place the containers in a well-ventilated area, away from water, to prevent mold spores and mildew. Check them every few months to ensure that all the toys are still in good condition and clean.

Learn How to Clean Baby Toys Properly

In conclusion, regular cleaning of baby toys is a must for ensuring the health and safety of your baby. Be sure to read all labels on toy packaging and use temperature-safe cleaning supplies and techniques to clean. Now that you know how to clean baby toys get started by giving toys the cleaning they need.

If you are interested in learning more about keeping your child happy and healthy, check out the rest of our site.