Introduction If you have a baby, you know that every toy eventually ends up in their mouth, on the floor, or covered in something sticky. Keeping their playthings clean is a daily battle, especially during flu season. However, you want to make sure you are killing germs without exposing your child to harsh chemicals. Here is a practical guide on how to safely sanitize baby toys.
Cleaning Plastic Toys Solid plastic toys (without batteries) are the easiest to clean.
- The Dishwasher Method: Many hard plastic toys can be placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. Just secure them in a mesh bag so they don’t fall to the bottom.
- The Sink Method: Wash them in warm, soapy water. For sanitizing, you can soak them for 10 minutes in a mixture of half water and half white vinegar, then rinse thoroughly.
Washing Plush Toys and Stuffed Animals Always check the care label first. Most plush toys can go in the washing machine. Put them in a pillowcase or a laundry bag to protect them, and wash on a gentle cycle with hot water. Dry them on low heat to keep them fluffy and prevent mold.
Handling Bath Toys (Beware of Mold!) Bath toys with holes in the bottom are notorious for trapping water and growing dangerous black mold inside.
- After every bath, squeeze all the water out of the toys.
- Once a week, soak them in a mixture of vinegar and water, making sure to suck the mixture inside the toy, shake it, and squeeze it out.
Conclusion Regular cleaning keeps nasty germs at bay. By using natural cleaners like vinegar and hot water, you ensure that when the toy inevitably goes back into your baby’s mouth, it is perfectly safe!