If you find yourself in this post and is currently surround by colorful play things in your house, then I can bet that you are a new parent. It is fun to see a child explore, experience, and learn colors, shapes or textures with their toys. So I will not judge you on how often you buy toys for your little ones, because I am in the same boat as you.
As babies grow, they become more curious about their environment and start to explore the world around them. Every time I see our baby’s toys, I worry on keeping these clean as babies tend to put everything in their mouth and have no sense of cleanliness. It’s important to keep their toys clean and hygienic to prevent the spread of germs and infections.
How often do you need to clean baby toys?
There is no general rule as to how frequent baby toys are cleaned. A good rule of thumb is to clean them at least once a month. You can wipe, wash or give the toys a hot soak to make sure it is clean for your curious baby. Heavily-used toys can be cleaned more frequently than the others.
How to clean baby toys safely?
Check the label
Before cleaning your baby’s toys, check the label to see if there are any specific cleaning instructions. Some toys may not be suitable for water or harsh chemicals, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Wash with soap and water
Most plastic or rubber toys can be washed with warm water and mild soap. you can use the baby soap or the baby bottle soap when doing so. Use a clean cloth or sponge to gently scrub the toys, paying special attention to any hard-to-reach areas. Rinse the toys thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a clean towel.
Disinfect with vinegar solution
If your baby has been sick or if the toys have been exposed to germs, you may want to disinfect them with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray the solution on the toys and let them sit for a few minutes before wiping them clean with a damp cloth. You can also use a disinfectant wipe, making sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Try eco-friendly baby nursery cleaners
You can also use a baby toy or nursery cleaner solutions. We personally use Tiny Buds Nursery Cleaner with a sprayer bottle. Just spray the solution around 7 inches away from the surface and wipe with a clean towel. It keeps curious babies away from harmful toxins since it is made of eco-friendly ingredients and from harmful bacteria..
Use the dishwasher
Some toys, such as plastic teething rings or rattles, can be washed in the dishwasher. Make sure to put them in the top rack and use a mild detergent. Avoid using the heated dry cycle, as it can damage some toys.
Wash stuffed toys
Stuffed toys can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent. Place the toys in a pillowcase or laundry bag to prevent them from getting damaged or tangled. After washing, let them air dry completely before giving them back to your baby.
Clean wooden toys
Wooden toys can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Avoid using water or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the wood. You can also use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to disinfect wooden toys.
Regular cleaning with hot water
Make sure to clean your baby’s toys on a regular basis, especially if they are played with frequently. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth can help keep the toys clean and hygienic or a scheduled cleaning would do the trick. Putting your baby’s toys in hot water or boiling water (please check manufacturer first) is one of the easiest way to clean baby’s toys without using any natural or store-bought solutions.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your baby’s toys clean and safe for them to play with.