Unfinished Wooden

Wooden Toys- How to Clean and Maintain

Wooden toys are durable and when properly cared for can last through generations.  These simple steps will help you keep your child’s wooden toys clean, sanitary and in good condition. We recommend that you clean all of your child’s wooden toys regularly and thoroughly to help prevent the spread of germs.

Because our wooden toys are made of natural materials, it is important to understand the difference between unfinished and finished wooden toys.  Some of our wooden toys are unfinished.  These toys have not been dyed or painted in any way; rather they have been left in their natural state.  Our finished wooden toys are treated with non-toxic dyes and natural paint finishes.

Daily Cleaning- both finished and unfinished toys can be wiped clean with a dry cloth for daily maintenance and cleaning.

Unfinished toys can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, or sponge to remove dirt, or dust and then wiped dry. 

Finished toys can be gently cleaned with a natural, unabrasisve soap and limited water. Once cleaned, the moisture should be wiped away with a dry cloth and the toys should be allowed to dry completely before use.  A rinse of water and vinegar can be used in finished toys to remove crayon marks and oil based discoloration.

Regardless of either finish, soaking in water is never recommended as this can cause swelling.

Deep Cleaning- if your wooden toy requires deep cleaning a bleach and water solution can be used.  The ratio is as follows:

1 part household bleach to 10 parts water

Dampen a cloth in the solution and wipe the toy clean.  Rinse the toys quickly with plain water and dry with a cloth and allow the toy to air dry completely before use.

Caring for Wooden Toys

• Avoid leaving your wooden toys outside for extended periods of time.  Sun damage can fade toys over time and water damage can cause your wood toys to swell and age prematurely.
• Sand down any rough areas with fine sandpaper if the toy should become splintered, or scratched.
• Do not expose your wooden toys to excessive moisture unless intended as a teether. 
• When it’s time to clean your wooden toys, try to wipe with a dry cloth first. If a moist cloth is required to remove dirt, dampen the cloth only slightly to clean. Wipe away moisture and allow to air dry.
• Keep in mind that water is the enemy – never soak a wooden toy as it will absorb the water.
• NEVER clean wooden toys with furniture polish.  Furniture polish contains toxic materials that can be harmful if ingested by your child.
• NEVER use harsh household cleaners on wooden toys as the chemicals can be absorbed by the toy.

Involve your child in the caring of their wooden toys and they will stay in playing condition for years to come.

Our wooden toys collections are natural, durable and safe.  We are happy to be part of toy collections that are making a difference in both the developmental progress of your child and in the environment. 

About the Author

Author: Kristen Banzhaf, BS Interior Design, owner of www.woodtoypalace.com, dedicated mother, advocate for healthy play and imaginative learning. For a huge selection of natural, safe wooden toys from such trusted brands as Melissa and Doug visit our website at http://www.woodtoypalace.com

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