Why Sanitizing Toys and Play Areas is Important
As a parent, keeping my children healthy is my top priority. Kids put toys and play area surfaces in their mouths constantly, so it’s critical to sanitize these items regularly. Germs on toys and play areas can cause illnesses like colds, flu, pinkeye, diarrhea, and more. Some studies show that cold and flu viruses can survive on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours! Regular sanitizing kills illness-causing germs and helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases. Using natural cleaning methods is safer for my kids and better for the environment.
How Often Should Toys and Play Areas Be Sanitized?
The frequency of sanitizing depends on the age of the child and type of toy or play area:
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Infant toys – Sanitize daily. Infants tend to put toys in their mouths more often.
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Toddler toys – Sanitize every 2-3 days. Toddlers are prone to spreading germs through toys.
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Preschool toys – Sanitize weekly. Focus on toys that are mouthed or handled a lot.
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Play areas – Sanitize high-touch surfaces like play mats, playhouses, and ride-ons daily. Sanitize entire playroom weekly.
It’s also important to sanitize toys and play areas more frequently when sicknesses are going around. Immediately sanitize toys and surfaces that have been mouthed or sneezed/coughed on.
Natural Sanitizing Solutions
Here are some safe, eco-friendly sanitizing solutions:
Dish Soap and Water
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Mix a few drops of dish soap with water in a spray bottle. Dish soap helps remove oils and grime.
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Spray toys and surfaces and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
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Rinse with plain water and dry completely.
Hydrogen Peroxide
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Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle. Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant.
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Spray and let sit for several minutes before wiping clean with a soft cloth.
Vinegar
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Fill spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. Vinegar has antibacterial properties.
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Spray toys and surfaces and let sit briefly before wiping clean.
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The vinegar smell fades as it dries.
Essential Oils
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Add a few drops of antimicrobial oils like tea tree, lavender, or lemon to water in a spray bottle.
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Shake well before spraying toys and play areas. Wipe clean with a soft cloth.
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Essential oils leave a fresh, natural scent.
Sanitizing the Playroom
Here are some tips for effectively sanitizing an entire play area:
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Pick up toys and clear surfaces before sanitizing. This allows you to thoroughly clean all areas.
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Focus on high-touch spots like play mats, tables, toy bins, doorknobs, light switches, and shelves. Look for visible dirt and grime.
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Remove soft toys and bedding and wash in hot water to kill germs. Tumble dry on high if possible.
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Take toys apart and sanitize each piece. Pay close attention to small crevices.
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Wash removable playroom covers like rugs, pillows, tents etc. Consider steam cleaning carpets.
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Open windows to circulate fresh air after sanitizing.
Regularly sanitizing toys, play mats, and other high-touch surfaces makes my playroom a healthier place for my kids to play and explore. Using natural cleaning solutions like vinegar, essential oils, and soap and water gives me peace of mind.
