Date Posted:18 July 2023
Toys serve as a hub of fun and imagination for children. However, they can also harbour germs and bacteria, posing a significant risk to health and well-being. Regularly disinfecting toys is essential in preventing the spread of infections and maintaining a safe environment. Here are some helpful tips on effectively cleaning and sanitising different types of toys to ensure the health and safety of everyone in your facility.
1. Sanitizing & Disinfecting Plastic Toys
Plastic toys are common in childcare centres. To clean them thoroughly, follow these steps:
- Collect toys in a plastic bin that can be sanitised along with the toys.
- Remove dirt and stains using hot, soapy water, and scrub toys to make sure all grooves are clean.
- Rinse toys thoroughly and allow them to air dry.
- Soak the toys in a non-toxic disinfectant solution following the instructions on the product.
- Rinse toys and the plastic bin with clean water and let them air dry.
- Disinfect plastic toys on the same day each week and after specific events like a child putting a toy in their mouth or if a toy comes into contact with bodily fluid.
2. Sanitizing & Disinfecting Porous Toys:
Porous toys such as wooden blocks and stuffed animals, require special care since they can’t be submerged in water. Here are some tips:
- Wipe the toys with a cloth soaked in hot, soapy water to remove debris.
- Use a scrub brush or toothbrush to clean grooves.
- Allow toys to dry completely.
- Wipe the toys with a cloth soaked in a non-toxic disinfectant and follow the instructions on the product.
- Make sure the solution doesn’t discolour the toy, do a spot test beforehand.
- Wipe toys with fresh cloth rinsed with clean water to remove residual disinfectant.
- Air dry completely before use.
3. Sanitizing & Disinfecting Battery-Operated Toys:
As they can’t be submerged in water, clean as follow:
- Wipe the toys with a cloth soaked in hot, soapy water.
- Use a scrub brush or toothbrush to clean grooves.
- Allow to dry completely.
- Wipe the toys with a cloth soaked in a non-toxic disinfectant and follow the instructions on the product.
- Make sure the disinfectant solution won’t harm the toy’s appearance by doing a spot test.
- Wipe toys with fresh cloth rinsed with clean water to remove any remaining disinfectant.
- Let air dry completely before using.
Keeping toys clean and sanitised is vital to create a healthy environment for kids and staff. By using the tips provided you can ensure that your toys are always clean and ready to go. Cleaning the toys regularly, selecting non-toxic cleaners and adhering to a cleanings schedule will help to maintain a hygienic and enjoyable space for all the little ones under your care.
