The Sticky, Snotty, Slobbery Truth About Toy Hygiene
As a mom of three rambunctious kiddos, I know all too well the sticky, snotty, slobbery reality of raising little ones. Those chubby, curious hands are constantly exploring their worlds, picking up who-knows-what, and then promptly shoving it in their mouths. While I’m a firm believer that a little dirt is good for building strong immune systems, there’s a line we have to draw when it comes to keeping our children’s toys clean and sanitized.
Banishing Germs Without Harsh Chemicals
Like most parents, I cringe at the thought of dousing my kids’ toys in harsh chemical cleaners. Those strong scents and toxic ingredients just don’t sit well with me. But with cold and flu season upon us, along with the ever-present threat of pinworms and pink eye, I knew I had to find a solution to keep those germs at bay.
After a bit of research, I discovered that there are actually plenty of natural, non-toxic ways to sanitize toys without resorting to bleach or ammonia. In fact, some of the most effective toy-cleaning methods use everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
The Vinegar Spray Method
One of my go-to techniques is the trusty vinegar spray. I simply mix together equal parts water and distilled white vinegar in a repurposed spray bottle, then add a few drops of essential oils like lemon, lavender, or tea tree. The vinegar helps kill germs and bacteria, while the essential oils provide a pleasant scent and offer additional cleaning and disinfecting power.
I like to spray this mixture directly onto hard, non-porous toy surfaces, let it sit for a minute or two, then wipe everything down with a clean cloth. It’s amazing how well this simple solution cuts through sticky messes and eliminates nasty germs.
Baking Soda Soak
For toys that can’t be easily sprayed, I turn to a baking soda soak. I fill a large bowl or sink with warm water, stir in a generous amount of baking soda, and let the toys soak for 15-20 minutes. This helps break down and lift away any grime, while the baking soda’s natural cleaning properties disinfect.
Once the soak is complete, I rinse the toys thoroughly and allow them to air dry. Sometimes I’ll add a few drops of essential oils to the soak water for an extra cleaning boost and pleasant scent.
Boiling for Sterilization
When it comes to thoroughly sterilizing toys, you really can’t beat good old-fashioned boiling water. I simply fill a large pot, bring it to a rolling boil, and submerge any water-safe toys for about 5 minutes. This method is especially great for things like teethers, rattles, and plastic figurines that tend to harbor a lot of bacteria.
Just be sure to let the toys cool completely before allowing little hands to play with them again. And remember, boiling water is only safe for hard, non-porous surfaces – never try this with plush toys or anything that could be damaged by the heat.
Laundry Love for Soft Toys
Of course, not all toys are made of plastic or silicone. Those beloved stuffed animals and fabric dolls need a little extra TLC to keep them fresh and germ-free. For these soft toys, I rely on good old-fashioned laundry.
I’ll toss them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, using a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Sometimes I’ll even add a bit of baking soda or white vinegar to the wash for an extra cleaning boost. And if I’m really concerned about dust mites or other critters, I’ll pop the toys in the freezer for a few hours before washing – the cold temperatures effectively kill any unwanted hitchhikers.
The Importance of Routine Cleaning
Of course, the key to keeping toys sanitized is to make it a regular part of your cleaning routine. I try to do a quick wipe-down of hard toys at least once a week, and I’ll typically wash soft toys every month or so, depending on how much they’ve been played with.
It may seem like a lot of work, but I’ve found that dedicating a little time to toy maintenance pays off in a big way. Not only does it help reduce the spread of germs and illness in our home, but it also extends the life of our little ones’ beloved playthings.
And let’s be honest – when you’ve got kids, you’re dealing with a constant barrage of sticky, snotty, slobbery messes anyway. Might as well tackle those toy germs head-on with some simple, natural cleaning solutions, right?
So the next time you’re staring down a pile of drool-covered, crumb-encrusted playthings, remember that you’ve got some powerful, non-toxic options at your fingertips. With a little vinegar, baking soda, and elbow grease, you can keep those toys sparkling clean and your family happy and healthy.
Of course, if you ever need a professional deep-cleaning for your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Adam Cleaning. We’re here to help make your life a little easier (and a lot more germ-free).
