Toy Cleaning Guidelines

How to care for borrowed toys

Thank you for helping us keep our Toy Library collection clean, safe and ready for other families to enjoy.

Before returning borrowed items, please take a few moments to check that all pieces are included and clean the toys using the guidelines below. Regular cleaning helps protect the health of our members, extends the life of our toys, and ensures every family can enjoy them in the best possible condition.

If a toy is damaged, missing pieces, or needs extra attention, please let us know when you return it. We understand that toys are played with, explored and loved by children, and normal wear and tear is expected. Letting us know helps us repair, replace or maintain items so they can continue to be enjoyed by other families.

General cleaning:

• Use an all-purpose cleaner that removes grease (e.g. bi-carb soda and vinegar, dishwashing liquid, or Spray and Wipe).
• Use an old toothbrush, skewer, or cotton bud to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Thoroughly dry all washed toys with a clean, dry cloth before storing.

Outdoor / Sandpit Toys:

• Clean thoroughly — the next family may want to use them indoors.
• Immerse in a laundry tub, remove all sand and dirt, and wash with hot, soapy water.

Baby Rattles:

• Do not immerse in water — moisture can get trapped inside and cause bacteria to grow.
• Rinse well to remove all cleaning product residue.

Bath Toys (and toys used in the bath):

• Wipe over with a suitable disinfectant.
• Avoid soaking, as disinfectants may fade or damage the plastic.

Wooden Toys and Train Sets:

• Scrub with hot, soapy water using a toothbrush.
• Do not soak or immerse in water.

Wooden Puzzles:

• Wipe all pieces with a hot, soapy cloth.

Board Games and Cardboard Puzzles:

• Wipe gently with a hot, damp (not wet) cloth.
• Clean all puzzle and game pieces individually.

Duplo / Lego:

• Wash with hot, soapy water and a toothbrush.
• Rinse well and leave to drain overnight.

If your child has been unwell:

• Disinfect the toys by wiping them over with a suitable disinfectant.
• Do not soak toys, as this can remove colour from plastic.
• Please let a staff member know when returning the toys — they may be set aside for a short isolation period before being borrowed again.

If you have any questions, please speak to one of our Toy Library team.