Keeping Toys Clean to Make Playtime Pure

Like most toddlers, my son puts everything in his mouth.

We're very careful about what toys he plays with, we don't want him mouthing toys that could expose him to lead or phthalates - which, unfortunately, are present in many children's products.

But even safe toys need a good cleaning now and then. Dust contaminated with pollutants like lead or flame retardants, allergens and asthmagens can all build up on them over time.

It is generally recommended that you clean your toddler's toys about once a month. If your child has a lot of toys and you have little time, just clean the toys that are most frequently played with.

Use these tips to keep playtime pure fun.

Unfinished Wooden Toys

Regular care: Clean with a damp sponge, but do not soak - and dry off immediately afterwards. If you are concerned about bacteria - pop the toy in your microwave for about 30 seconds. The heat will kill the bacteria that can be hiding inside the toy. (I say "inside" because the wood's surface forms a hostile environment for bacteria, so they migrate to the interior - unlike plastic, which is impenetrable so the bacteria just multiply right on the surface. And if the toy is pine, the natural pine oil will serve as another disinfectant).

Periodically rubbing with olive oil (once or twice a year) will keep the wood beautifully buffed and provide some protection.

Stains: Use fine-grade sandpaper to remove any discolorations or stains. After sanding, the toy should be washed, dried, and set out for several hours (or heated in the microwave) to eliminate bacteria that may have been released from the interior of the wood. This also applies to a toy that has suffered water damage.

Finished/Painted Wooden Toys

Regular Care: Wash quickly with soap and water, but as with unfinished wood, do not soak them as it can damage the toy.

Stains: Spray with a 50/50 mixture of white distilled vinegar and water, wipe and dry.

Stuffed Toys and Other Textiles

Regular Care: Most stuffed toys and textiles can be tossed in your washing machine, but read the tag to find out for sure. For stuffed animals, you can protect them by enclosing them in a pillow case before putting them in the wash. Use a non-toxic laundry detergent and dry using low heat (or leave outside in the sun). Just make sure it doesn't take too long to dry as that can promote mold growth.

To treat dust mites (which are a special concern for parents with children who suffer from asthma or allergies) freeze the toy for 24 hours.

Plastic Toys

Regular Care: Use hot soapy water to clean small toys by hand. If a plastic toy seems to be getting worn and scratched, it may be time to re-purpose or recycle the toy (if you can). Scratches in plastic can become harbors for bacteria - not the type of toy you want your toddler sucking on.

A good all-purpose disinfectant: 2 teaspoons borax, 4 tablespoons white vinegar and 3 to 4 cups hot water in a spray bottle. For extra cleaning power, add 1/4 teaspoon liquid castile soap to the mixture.

But, remember - there's no need to get obsessive about how clean your child's toys are. Disinfecting everything may compromise their immune system's development. Well, you just do your best to reduce exposure. And at the end of the day, make sure you're pulling out the toys to laugh and play together.

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