Hi, parents! We all know how much our little ones love their wooden toys. They’re durable, timeless, and let’s not forget, super cute. But just like any toy, they need a little TLC to keep them clean and germ-free. Today, I’m sharing some easy, mom-approved tips on how to clean and disinfect wooden toys, depending on their finish. Let’s dive in!
Natural, Unfinished Wood
Natural, unfinished wooden toys have that lovely, rustic charm, but they can be a bit tricky to clean since they’re more porous.
Cleaning: For daily cleaning, a simple wipe-down with a dry microfiber cloth does wonders. It picks up dust and debris without adding moisture.
Disinfecting: When you need to disinfect, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Dampen (don’t soak!) a cloth with this solution and wipe the toys. The vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant without being too harsh on the wood. Make sure the toys air dry completely before giving them back to your kiddos.
Finished Wood with Non-Toxic Sealant
Many wooden toys come with a non-toxic sealant, giving them a smoother surface that's a bit easier to clean.
Cleaning: A damp cloth with a drop of mild dish soap is your best friend here. Wipe down the toy and then follow up with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.
Disinfecting: For disinfecting, you can use the same vinegar and water solution. Another great option is a mix of a few drops of tea tree oil in water – it’s a natural disinfectant and smells lovely. Again, ensure the toys dry thoroughly.
Painted Wood
Painted wooden toys add a splash of color to playtime, but the paint can sometimes make cleaning a little more delicate.
Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth with a mild soap solution to gently wipe the surface. Avoid soaking the toy or using abrasive cloths, as this can damage the paint.
Disinfecting: The vinegar and water solution works well here too. Alternatively, you can use a gentle, baby-safe disinfectant spray. Just make sure to wipe off any excess liquid and let the toys air dry.
Waxed Wood
Waxed wooden toys have a nice finish that protects the wood while giving it a soft sheen. However, the wax can wear off with harsh cleaning.
Cleaning: Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean waxed wood. Avoid using soap, as it can strip away the wax coating.
Disinfecting: For disinfecting, a mix of vinegar and water is still a good option, but use it sparingly. You can also use a diluted solution of rubbing alcohol and water – just make sure to test a small area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the wax.
Oiled Wood
Oiled wooden toys are often finished with natural oils like linseed or tung oil, giving them a beautiful, rich finish.
Cleaning: A dry cloth works well for everyday cleaning. If you need to use a damp cloth, make sure it’s only slightly damp to avoid damaging the oil finish.
Disinfecting: Stick with the trusty vinegar and water solution here, but again, use it sparingly. After disinfecting, it’s a good idea to reapply a thin layer of the same oil used to finish the toy to keep it looking its best.
General Tips
- Avoid Submerging: Never soak wooden toys in water. It can cause the wood to swell, crack, or warp.
- Sunlight Drying: After cleaning, let the toys dry in a well-ventilated area or in the sun. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant!
- Regular Maintenance: For oiled or waxed toys, a periodic reapplication of oil or wax helps maintain their finish and keeps them looking new.
Wooden toys are such a treasure in our kids’ playtime. With these simple cleaning and disinfecting tips, you can keep them safe, clean, and beautiful for years to come. Happy cleaning!