How to Clean Wooden Toys: The Ultimate Non-Toxic Guide
Wooden toys are timeless. They are durable, eco-friendly, and have a beautiful tactile quality that plastic just can’t match. However, because wood is a natural, porous material, many parents are unsure how to keep them clean without causing damage.
The good news? Wood actually has natural antimicrobial properties, meaning it’s naturally resistant to bacteria. But between sticky fingers, teething, and the occasional floor-drop, they still need a regular refresh. Here is your definitive guide to keeping wooden toys safe, clean, and beautiful for years to come.
1. The Golden Rule: Never Soak
If you remember only one thing, let it be this: Do not submerge wooden toys in water. Unlike plastic, wood is porous. If it stays in water too long, it will swell, warp, and potentially crack as it dries. This can also lead to the growth of mould deep inside the wood fibres or cause paint to peel and fade.
2. Routine Cleaning (The Weekly Wipe-Down)
For toys that are played with daily, a quick surface clean once a week is usually plenty.
-
What you need: A soft microfiber cloth and warm water.
-
The Method: Dampen the cloth (it should be damp, not dripping) and wipe down the surfaces. Immediately follow up with a dry cloth to remove any lingering moisture.
3. Deep Cleaning & Sanitising
If your child has been sick, or if a toy has become particularly grimy (think: caked-on playdough or food), you’ll want a deeper clean.
| Cleaning Agent | Best For... | Instructions |
| Mild Dish Soap | General grime & dirt | Add 2-3 drops of castile soap (non animal fat, vegetable-based soap) to a bowl of warm water. Use a cloth to wipe. |
| White Vinegar | Sanitising & Odours | Mix 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water in a spray bottle. Spritz a cloth and wipe. |
| Baking Soda Paste | Stubborn stains | Mix baking soda with a tiny bit of water to make a paste. Scrub gently with a toothbrush. |
Pro Tip: If you have a large set of wooden blocks, you can do a "quick dip." Swirl them in a sink of soapy water for no more than 10 seconds, then immediately spread them out on a towel to dry.
4. Handling Painted vs. Unfinished Wood
-
Painted/Stained Toys: These usually have a protective sealant, but they can still fade. Avoid vigorous scrubbing or alcohol-based cleaners, as these can strip the pigment.
-
Unfinished/Natural Wood: These are the most porous. Be extra careful with water. If a natural wood toy becomes rough after cleaning, you can lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit).
5. Maintenance: The "Spa Day" for Toys
Over time, wood can start to look dry or dull. You can replenish its natural moisture and create a protective barrier by "moisturising" the wood once or twice a year.
-
What to use: Food-grade linseed oil, coconut oil, or a beeswax-based toy polish.
-
The Method: Apply a small amount to a clean rag and rub it into the wood. Let it sit overnight, then buff away any excess the next morning. It will look brand new and smell wonderful.
6. How to Dry Properly
Always air dry wooden toys.
-
Avoid Direct Sunlight: While the sun is a great natural disinfectant, leaving wooden toys in direct, hot sunlight for too long can cause the wood to shrink too quickly and crack.
-
Ventilation: Place them on a drying rack or a clean towel in a well-ventilated room.
Summary Checklist
-
[ ] Wipe, don't soak.
-
[ ] Use vinegar and water for a non-toxic sanitiser.
-
[ ] Use a toothbrush for hard-to-reach crevices.
-
[ ] Air dry away from direct heat or intense sun.
-
[ ] Polish with beeswax to keep the wood supple.
By following these simple steps, your wooden toys won't just stay clean—they’ll become heirlooms that can be passed down to the next generation.
