Caring for Wooden Toys: A Guide for Parents

Wooden toys are a great choice for children, as they are durable and safe. But like any other toy, they need to be cared for properly in order to last. Caring for wooden toys is not complicated and can be done with simple steps. This guide will help parents understand the best way to clean and maintain wooden toys for kids.

Wooden toys can be cleaned with a dry cloth for daily maintenance and cleaning. You can also use a slightly damp cloth or sponge to remove dirt or dust. To keep the wood natural, use a mild cleaner such as a solution of vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 10 parts water), a mild, environmentally friendly dish soap and a little warm water, or your favorite non-toxic all-purpose cleaner, diluted with water. Bleach and harsh chemicals should be avoided, as they can dry out the wood.

Beeswax

is an excellent option for protecting wooden toys from drying out, preventing them from being scratched, and keeping them looking fantastic.

Too much moisture can cause the shape of the toy to change and deform, and if the toy doesn't dry completely, more germs and bacteria will want to get out. With the right care, one day your children will be able to pass on their wooden blocks or toys to their children. When it comes to understanding how to disinfect baby toys, such as old stuffed animals or your child's favorite plastic toy, there are some important things you should and shouldn't do. To keep wooden toys in good condition for years to come, they should never be cleaned with hot or running water, as this causes the wood to swell and the water-soluble paints to lose their intensity. From time to time you'll want to moisturize wooden toys, just as you would with your cutting boards, butcher's blocks, or wooden utensils. If your wooden toys are used in a daycare or daycare center, follow your center's guidelines for toy sanitation.

You'll be happy to know that cleaning wooden toys doesn't require harsh chemicals, special products, or equipment. Spray the toys with the cleaner of your choice, wipe them gently with a sponge or cloth and a little warm water, and then allow the toys to air dry. So you can take comfort in the fact that your child's wooden toys are less likely to harbor nasty germs. With proper care and maintenance, these toys can last for generations.