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How to sanitize children’s toys: Step-by-Step

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Easily sanitize children’s toys with E-Cloth—simple, effective cleaning using just water for a safer, healthier playtime.

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How to sanitize children’s toys: Step-by-Step

Tools:

E-Cloth
Mild, non-abrasive liquid soap
Soft sponge
Bleach
Clean towel

Step 1: Pre-Cleaning

Shake off or brush away visible crumbs and dirt. Remove detachable parts if possible.
If the toy has electronic components or is battery operated, use a damp cloth instead of submerging it.

Step 2: Washing

Prepare warm water mixed with a mild, non-abrasive liquid soap.
Gently scrub the toys with a soft cloth or sponge, focusing on crevices where dirt might hide.
Thoroughly rinse them under running water to wipe away soap residue.

Step 3: Sanitizing

Mix a disinfecting solution using 1/3 cup of bleach per gallon of water (always check that the toy’s material can handle this solution).
Soak hard, non-porous toys in the solution or thoroughly wipe down delicate surfaces with a cloth dampened in the mixture.
Let them sit for about 5 minutes to ensure proper disinfection before rinsing off the bleach solution with clean water.

Step 4: Drying

Place the toys on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to air-dry completely before returning them to play.
Ensure no moisture remains, especially in crevices, to prevent any potential mold growth.

Precautions:

Follow Manufacturer's Instructions

Check labels and guidelines on each toy to use methods and products that won’t cause damage.

Use Child-Safe Cleaning Agents

Select disinfectants and cleaners that are non-toxic and designed for children’s items.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Steer clear of strong chemicals that might leave harmful residues or degrade the toy’s material.

Rinse Thoroughly After Sanitizing

Ensure all cleaning solutions are completely washed off to prevent accidental ingestion.

Dry Toys Completely

Allow toys to air dry or use a clean cloth to remove moisture, reducing the risk of mold growth.

Protect Sensitive Components

Keep water-sensitive parts and electronic elements away from excessive moisture during cleaning.

Secure Cleaning Supplies

Store all cleaning products safely out of children’s reach and handle them according to safety guidelines.

How to Correctly Sanitize The Children’s toys: Extra Tips

Pre-Clean: Remove Visible Dirt

Gently brush off crumbs and loose dirt from the toys.
Wipe down hard surfaces with warm water and a small amount of child-safe dish soap.
Consider using a soft, damp cloth to avoid scratching delicate surfaces.

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Choose Child-Safe Sanitizers

Select disinfectants that are approved for use around children, free of harsh chemicals.
Opt for solutions like diluted white vinegar or specially formulated toy sanitizers.
Always read labels and follow directions for safe dilutions.

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Rinse Thoroughly After Sanitizing

After applying the sanitizer, rinse the toys well with lukewarm water to remove any residue.
Pay special attention to areas around buttons, seams, and crevices.
This step prevents any harmful chemicals from lingering on surfaces your child will handle.

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Air Dry and Store Safely

Allow the toys to fully air dry in a clean, dust-free area.
Avoid using towels that may transfer lint or fibers onto the toys.
Once dry, store the toys in a sanitary container or shelf to keep them clean until next use.

Common Mistakes When Sanitizing Children’s toys

Using Hot Water on Electronic Toys

Cleaning electronic or battery-operated toys with hot water can cause water to penetrate and damage the internal components.
This may lead to malfunction, corrosion, or even safety hazards such as short-circuits.
Instead, use a damp cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent to gently clean the surface.

Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions

Many toys have specific cleaning guidelines provided by the manufacturer, which are important for maintaining their integrity and safety.
Disregarding these instructions can void warranties or cause unnecessary wear and tear.
Always consult the care label or user manual before cleaning, especially with specialty materials.

Mixing Different Cleaning Products

Combining cleaning agents (e.g., bleach and ammonia) can create toxic fumes that are dangerous to inhale.
Mixing products may also result in unpredictable chemical reactions that can harm both the toy and your health.
Stick to one cleaning solution at a time, and read labels to ensure product safety for children's items.

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How Often to Sanitize Children’s toys

Sanitize Children’s Toys Frequency Guidelines

Weekly for everyday play: For toys that see daily use, a thorough weekly sanitization helps keep germs from building up over time. This regular routine is a healthy baseline that reduces the risk of cross-contamination between hands and mouths.
More frequent during illness: If a child is under the weather or if there’s a known outbreak (think colds or flu), sanitize high-touch toys every few days to limit the spread of pathogens until everyone’s back in top shape.
After communal or outdoor use: When toys have been used in public spaces or shared with other kids, sanitize them after each session. This extra step minimizes the risk of picking up germs from different environments.
Focus on high-contact items: Prioritize toys that fit in little hands or are frequently mouthed. Items like stuffed animals, plastic playsets, and high-use community toys should be on your sanitizing radar more often than decorative items.

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