Cleaning Procedures

This document outlines the standard cleaning procedures for toys to ensure hygiene and safety, following EU standards. It emphasizes the use of organic, gentle, and non-toxic materials.

General Guidelines

1. Inspection and Sorting:

  • Inspect toys upon return for visible dirt, damage, or missing parts.
  • Toys with missing or damaged parts will be removed from circulation until parts have been found or replaced.
  • All returned toys must be cleaned before returning to circulation.

2. Cleaning Products:

  • Use organic, child-safe cleaning agents approved under EU regulations.
  • Recommended materials include:
    • Soap: Castile soap
    • Vinegar: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar (diluted appropriately for cleaning)
    • Disinfectant: EU-compliant eco-friendly disinfectants

3. Cleaning Frequency:

  • Clean and sanitize all toys upon return.

4. Drying:

  • Ensure toys are completely dry before storage to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

5. Storage:

  • Store cleaned toys in a clean, dry, and ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat.

Specific Cleaning Procedures

Wooden Toys

  1. Clean:
    • Wipe down with a damp cloth soaked in warm water mixed with a small amount of Castile soap.
    • Avoid excessive water to prevent damage to wood.
  2. Disinfect:
    • Lightly spray with a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water. Wipe off immediately.
  3. Dry:
    • Air-dry thoroughly in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

Wooden Toys with Metal Components

  1. Clean:
    • For wooden parts, use the same process as for wooden toys.
    • For metal components, wipe with a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of water and white vinegar (1:4 ratio). Avoid soaking metal parts.
  2. Disinfect:
    • Use the vinegar-water solution for all parts. Do not leave the metal wet for extended periods to prevent rust.
  3. Dry:
    • Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth.

Plastic and Hard-Surface Toys

  1. Clean:
    • Wash with warm, soapy water using Castile soap. Use a sponge or soft cloth.
    • For dishwasher-safe toys, place in the dishwasher using an eco-friendly detergent (if permitted by the manufacturer).
  2. Disinfect:
    • Spray with an organic disinfectant or diluted vinegar-water solution and wipe thoroughly.
  3. Dry:
    • Air-dry or use a clean towel to wipe dry.

Fabric or Plush Toys

  1. Clean:
    • Machine wash with an eco-friendly, unscented detergent (e.g., Ecover Zero). Use a gentle cycle.
    • Place smaller items in a mesh laundry bag.
    • For non-machine washable items, spot clean with warm water and Castile soap.
  2. Disinfect:
    • Lightly mist with an organic fabric-safe disinfectant and allow to air dry.
  3. Dry:
    • Use a dryer on low heat or air-dry in a well-ventilated area.

Teething Toys

  1. Clean:
    • Hand wash with warm water and Castile soap. Use a soft brush for detailed cleaning.
    • If allowed by the manufacturer, boil for 3–5 minutes.
  2. Disinfect:
    • Rinse with a vinegar-water solution (1:4 ratio). Avoid leaving vinegar residue; rinse with clean water after disinfecting.
  3. Dry:
    • Air-dry completely before storage.

Electronic Toys

  1. Clean:
    • Turn off and remove batteries. Use a soft cloth dampened with a diluted Castile soap solution to clean surfaces.
    • Do not allow water near electronic components.
  2. Disinfect:
    • Apply disinfectant or vinegar-water solution to a cloth, not directly to the toy, and wipe all surfaces.
  3. Dry:
    • Ensure all surfaces are thoroughly dry before reinserting batteries.

Staff Training

All staff must be trained on these cleaning procedures, the use of materials, and health and safety protocols.

By adhering to this procedure, the toy library can ensure a hygienic and safe environment while maintaining sustainability and meeting EU standards.