Keeping children’s things clean is a challenge that every parent faces. Plastic toys Over time, they accumulate dust, food debris and street dirt, becoming an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Regular and proper treatment helps protect your child’s health and extend the life of your favorite items.
Preparation and sorting
Before you start washing, you must sort the toys. Set aside those with batteries, electronic mechanisms or soft fabric inserts – they should not be immersed in water. Rubber toys with squeaking holes also require special attention: if water gets inside and does not dry out, it may form. black mold. It is better to simply wipe such items from the outside.
Soap solution for gentle cleaning
The most universal way is to use warm water and baby soap or dishwashing detergent.
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Fill a basin with warm water and lather the detergent.
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Soak the toys for 15-20 minutes to loosen the dirt.
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Use soft sponge or an old toothbrush for cleaning hard-to-reach places and textured surfaces.
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Rinse items thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining foam.
Using the dishwasher
Many modern hard plastic toys can be washed in dishwasher. This saves a lot of time, especially if there are a lot of parts, for example, when washing a construction set.
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Use a special wash bag or cutlery container to prevent small parts from flying around the chamber.
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Choose a gentle mode with a temperature no higher than 40–50 degrees so that the plastic does not deform.
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Make sure you use eco friendly tablets without aggressive chemicals and strong fragrances.
Disinfection with natural remedies
If toys were used outdoors or during a child’s illness, they require disinfection. Instead of chlorine-containing products, it is better to use baking soda or table vinegar. A solution of water and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio effectively kills germs and eliminates unpleasant odors. After this treatment, the toys need to be rinsed and ventilated.
Proper drying
Moisture is the main enemy of hygiene, so thorough drying required. Place clean items on a dry towel in a single layer. It’s best to dry them outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight, which can discolor the bright plastic. Only completely dry toys can be put back in the box or given to the child.
Regular care of your gaming equipment not only preserves its appearance, but also makes the environment safe. The simple habit of washing plastic products once a month, or when dirty, eliminates unnecessary worries. Clean toys always look neat and ready for new play.
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