Soft Toys
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Most soft toys such as stuffed animals and loveys can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with a gentle detergent such as Tide Free and Clear. They can usually be tumble dried on low in the dryer.
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For some very delicate toys, you can hand wash in the sink with a teaspoon of gentle detergent, rinse, and blot and hang to dry.
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To sanitize, first spray with a disinfectant spray such as Lysol.
Hard Plastic Toys
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Hard plastic toys can be cleaned by hand in soap and water, run through the dishwasher, or wiped down with surface cleaners such as white vinegar.
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Keep in mind that some plastic toys have holes where water can get in but not out easily, and for these toys, you’ll want to wipe down rather than submerge in liquid.
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To sanitize, submerge or wipe with a sanitizing agent such as diluted bleach or Clorox wipes.
Electronic Toys
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Toys that contain batteries will need to be spot-cleaned with surface cleaners, paying careful attention so as to not get moisture inside the electronic parts.
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To sanitize, use a wipe with rubbing alcohol.
Wood Toys
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Wooden toys can be cleaned with surface cleaners as long as they are not submerged and care is taken to dry them immediately.
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To sanitize, use a wipe with rubbing alcohol.
By Hilary Clay