Please give every toy a quick clean and dry before you bring it back. It only takes a few minutes, keeps germs from travelling between families, and helps our volunteers check toys in and get them back on the shelves faster.

Most toys only need a quick wipe. You don't need special products, just what's already under your sink.

What you'll need

• Warm water with a little dishwashing liquid
• A clean cloth
• An old toothbrush for grooves and small gaps
• A dry towel
• Optional: unscented baby wipes for a quick wipe-down

How to clean each type of toy

Toy type	How to clean it	Please avoid
Hard plastic (blocks, vehicles, etc)	Wipe with warm soapy water, use a toothbrush in the grooves, then dry with a tea towel	Soaking toys that have stickers, cardboard parts or hidden battery compartments
Wooden toys and puzzles	Wipe with a damp (not wet) cloth and dry straight away	Soaking or running under the tap, which makes wood swell and paint lift
Fabric, plush and dress-ups	Spot-clean marks with a damp soapy cloth and let air-dry fully	Machine washing unless the label or toy tag says it's OK
Electronic and battery toys	Take the batteries out, then wipe the outside with a barely damp cloth, keeping water away from speakers, switches and the battery compartment	Getting water inside the toy
Games, puzzles and sets with small pieces	Wipe any sticky pieces and check the box isn't damp or crumbly	Leaving pieces wet in the box, where they go mouldy
Ride-ons and large outdoor toys	Brush off dirt, sand and leaves, then wipe down handles and seats	Bringing them back muddy or wet

Before you bring it back, check that:

• Every piece is there. Check against the contents list on the toy's tag or box
• The toy is completely dry
• Batteries are removed from the toy
• Small pieces are back in their bag or container
• Everything is packed in the toy's original bag or box

A few don'ts

• No bleach, harsh disinfectants or strong-smelling sprays. Little ones mouth toys, and residue can stay behind
• No dishwasher or washing machine unless the toy's tag says so
• No hairdryer or heater to speed up drying. Heat warps plastic and cracks wood