When you welcome a baby into your home, cleanliness suddenly becomes a top priority. Babies are naturally curious and love to explore the world through touch—and more often than not, by putting things in their mouths. Their toys, which are frequently handled, dropped, and chewed, can become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria if not cleaned regularly.

But how often should you clean your baby’s first toys? And what’s the best way to do it without using harsh chemicals that might be harmful? In this article, we’ll explore the factors that determine cleaning frequency, the best cleaning methods for different types of toys, and tips for keeping your baby safe and healthy.

Why Cleaning Baby Toys Is So Important

Babies Explore Through Their Mouths

From about 3 to 6 months of age, babies begin to grab objects and put them in their mouths. This phase, known as “mouthing,” is a normal part of development. However, it also means that any dirt, bacteria, or viruses on a toy can enter their system directly. This increases the risk of infections, especially since infants have developing immune systems.

Exposure to Germs and Allergens

Baby toys often end up on the floor, in car seats, at daycare, and even in public places. They can collect dust, allergens, and germs from various sources. While a certain level of microbial exposure is healthy for immune development, excessive buildup—especially of harmful pathogens—can lead to colds, flu, gastrointestinal infections, or skin irritations.

Prevention of Illness

Regular cleaning helps reduce the chances of common illnesses like:

• Colds and respiratory infections
• Gastrointestinal bugs (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus)
• Skin rashes or allergic reactions

Cleaning baby toys is one of the simplest preventive health measures you can take at home.

How Often Should You Clean Baby Toys?

The cleaning schedule depends on several factors, including how often the toy is used, where it’s used, and what it’s made of. Here’s a general guideline based on toy types and usage.

Daily Cleaning

Some toys should be cleaned daily or after each use:

• Teething toys
• Toys used during feeding
• Toys that are mouthed frequently
• Toys that have fallen on the ground or been shared with other children

Wipe them down or sanitize them after each use to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria.

Weekly Cleaning

Toys that aren’t used daily but are still handled frequently can be cleaned once a week:

• Plush toys or soft dolls
• Plastic rattles and blocks
• Play gym accessories

A weekly clean helps maintain hygiene without over-sanitizing.

Monthly or As-Needed Cleaning

Toys that are rarely used or kept in specific areas like display shelves or storage bins can be cleaned monthly or when visibly dirty:

• Decorative stuffed animals
• Toys stored in the nursery for long periods
• Keepsake items not regularly handled

Be sure to assess them for dust or mold buildup during monthly cleaning.

Best Methods to Clean Baby Toys

Different toys require different cleaning methods based on their material and construction. Here’s how to clean them safely and effectively.

Plastic Toys

Cleaning method:

• Wash with warm soapy water
• Use a baby-safe detergent or mild dish soap
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry
• For deeper sanitation, some plastic toys can go in the top rack of a dishwasher

Cleaning frequency: Daily for teething toys, weekly for others

Soft Toys and Stuffed Animals

Cleaning method:

• Machine-wash on a gentle cycle with baby-safe detergent
• Place in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them
• Air dry or tumble dry on low heat

Cleaning frequency: Weekly if used regularly, monthly if decorative

Tip: Always check the care label. Some plush toys with electronic components may require spot cleaning.

Wooden Toys

Cleaning method:

• Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap
• Avoid soaking, as wood can warp or splinter
• Disinfect with a vinegar and water solution (1:1 ratio) if needed

Cleaning frequency: Weekly or after exposure to dirt or drool

Rubber or Silicone Toys (e.g., teething rings)

Cleaning method:

• Boil for 3–5 minutes if safe for the material
• Wash with warm, soapy water and rinse well
• Use a sterilizer if recommended by the manufacturer

Cleaning frequency: Daily or after each use

Electronic or Battery-Operated Toys

Cleaning method:

• Remove batteries before cleaning
• Wipe with a damp cloth using mild soap
• Use disinfectant wipes safe for children
• Avoid submerging in water

Cleaning frequency: Weekly or as needed

Safe Cleaning Products to Use

Baby-Safe Cleaning Solutions

Always choose non-toxic, fragrance-free, and baby-safe cleaning products. Options include:

• Castile soap
• Mild dishwashing liquid
• White vinegar diluted with water
• Hydrogen peroxide (diluted) for disinfection
• Baking soda for deodorizing

What to Avoid

Avoid using harsh chemicals like:

• Bleach (unless specifically recommended and fully rinsed)
• Ammonia-based cleaners
• Strong disinfectant sprays not designed for baby use
• Scented or alcohol-heavy wipes that could irritate skin

Tips for Maintaining Toy Hygiene

Rotate Toys

Avoid having all toys out at once. Keep some in storage and rotate them weekly. This gives you a chance to clean the stored ones while keeping the play area fresh.

Store Toys Properly

Keep toys in clean, dry bins or boxes when not in use. Avoid placing them on the floor or in damp areas to prevent mold or bacteria growth.

Clean Toys After Playdates or Illness

If your child has been sick or had playdates, clean all toys used during that time to prevent spreading germs. Focus especially on toys that were shared or mouthed.

Use UV Sterilizers (Optional)

UV sterilizers, commonly used for bottles and pacifiers, can also be used for small toys. While not essential, they offer a quick, chemical-free way to kill germs—particularly helpful for teething toys.

Conclusion

Cleaning your baby’s first toys is essential for their health and safety, especially as they explore the world through touch and taste. While daily cleaning is necessary for toys that go into their mouths or are heavily used, others only need weekly or monthly maintenance. Using the right tools, like the Lura vacuum cleaner, makes it easier to keep plush toys and fabric items free from dust, allergens, and debris without harsh chemicals. Choosing the right cleaning method based on the toy’s material ensures that your baby stays safe while the toys stay in good condition.

By staying consistent with your cleaning schedule and using baby-safe products, you can create a clean, safe, and enjoyable play environment for your child—giving you peace of mind and your baby a healthy start in life.