Wooden toys are brilliant for babies and toddlers, they’re durable (withstanding tantrums) and are more eco-friendly than plastic toys. However, like alltoys, they get thrown around on the floor and your little one will no doubt be keen to put them in their mouth, so it’s important they’re kept clean. But how do you clean wooden toys? Keep on reading to find out…
Guide to cleaning wooden toys
Unlike plastic toys, wooden toyshave antibacterial properties, so any viruses or bacteria on them will die off a lot quicker. However, germs can survive on plastic surfaces for up to 24 hours, so naturally, they will require a lot more cleaning, a lot more frequently.
One thing you should avoid when it comes to cleaning wooden toys is to never just leave them in a sink full of water. This is because it can cause the toy to lose its colour and shape. Also, don’t use any disinfectors, chemical cleaners or disinfectant wipes, because these may contain toxic substances and if your child is one to put things in their mouth, then they could end up absorbing them.
The best way to clean wooden toys is to keep it natural and stay away from anything chemical. You can create your own homemade solution, such as white vinegar or apple cider vinegar diluted with water, then simply give your child’s wooden toys a wipe over with a damp cloth and leave it out to air dry. Popping them out in the sun not only helps to speed up the drying process but can also help to kill off more germs.
Alternatively, you could buy a natural product, such as the Aquaint Natural Sanitising Water, which is free from chemicals and therefore safe to use on items that may make their way into your baby’s mouth. It even comes in a handy 50ml travel bottle size, so you can fit it in your handbag for use on the go.
Just remember to clean your baby's wooden toys frequently, as they're more than likely to keep putting them in their mouth.