How to keep toys looking new

The holidays are over, and new toys have surely brought a lot of joy to the little ones in your house. However, it's also the perfect time to make sure those toys last a long time, accompanying them on their adventures and learning together. At Cucutoys, we know how important it is to keep them in good condition, not only to keep them fun, but also to teach children the value of care and responsibility.

Today we're giving you some practical tips for caring for your toys and keeping them looking like new. Take note!

Wooden Toys: Nature in Need of Pampering

Wooden toys are durable and beautiful, but they require special care:

• Cleaning: Use a cloth slightly dampened with warm water and, if necessary, add a drop of mild soap. Avoid submerging them in water, as this may cause deformation.
• Protection: Apply a thin coat of linseed oil or natural beeswax from time to time to keep the wood nourished and shiny.
• Storage: Store in a dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration or cracking.

Plastic toys: Strong, but not indestructible

Although they tend to be more durable, plastic toys also require care:

• Regular cleaning: Soak them in warm water with mild soap or wipe them with antibacterial wipes. To eliminate germs, you can use a 50/50 solution of white vinegar.
• Deep cleaning: If you have Greentoys toys, you can put them in the dishwasher! They'll come out like new.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not leave them in the sun or near heat sources, as they may become deformed or lose color.

Stuffed Animals: Soft friends that need an occasional bath

Stuffed animals are often the inseparable companions of little ones, but they accumulate dust and dirt:

• Machine wash: Use a mesh bag and select a delicate cycle with cold water. Use mild detergent and avoid fabric softener to avoid damaging the fibers.
• Drying: Let them air dry on a flat surface. If they have delicate details, such as plastic eyes, avoid using a dryer.
• Quick cleaning: Between washes, you can use a soft brush to remove dust.

Toys with small parts: Organization and prevention

• Separation by category: Use boxes or organizing bags to keep parts together and prevent loss.
• Cleaning: Clean them regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust.
• Supervision: Assist children and teach them to pick up their toys after playing to prevent them from getting lost.

Board games and puzzles: Keep things organized and fun

• Protection: Store game boxes in a dry, protected place. You can use plastic sleeves to protect the boards and cards from potential spills.
• Inventory: Periodically check for missing parts. If something is missing, try contacting the manufacturer; they often have replacement parts.

General Storage: An organized space is a happy space

• Toy Rotation: Store some toys and rotate them out so the little ones don't get overwhelmed and everything stays looking new.
• Practical furniture: Use accessible shelves or storage boxes so children can also participate in tidying.
• Labels: If you have several types of toys, use labels or photos on the boxes to make it easier to find and store them.

Taking care of toys not only helps extend their lifespan, but also teaches children the value of being responsible with what they have. At Cucutoys, we choose toys designed to last, but with a little care and attention, they can be with little ones for years!

If you have any questions or want more tips on toy care, we'd be happy to help. Do you have a special trick you use at home? Share it in the comments!