Cleaning Guidelines

In line with the Victorian Department of Health & Human Services requirements for Toy Libraries to operate during the COVID pandemic, all BTL members are required to thoroughly clean their toys prior to returning them to the library.  

Members will also be required to sign a declaration confirming toys have been cleaned.


Care of Toys

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR BORROWED TOYS

  • Wipe the toy thoroughly with a cloth damp with either a pH neutral detergent (such as diluted dishwashing detergent) or a 2-in-1 cleaner/disinfectant (most multipurpose sprays available at the supermarket).
  •  If using a 2-in-1 multipurpose spray, the solution must be sprayed onto the cloth until it is quite damp. You can use something like an old toothbrush or a cotton bud to get into hard to reach places.
  • Dry the toy with a tea towel or leave to dry overnight. Please make sure the toy is completely dry before returning it to its bag or tub.
  • Do not submerge toys in water as they can trap water inside them or in the case of wooden toys, they can get too wet to effectively dry.

SPECIAL TIPS

  • ** NEW ** Toy storage bags and tubs – Wipe handles and all areas that have been touched, ensuring everything is dry before placing toys back in the bag or tub.

  • Baby Rattles – Do not to immerse rattles in water as they collect water which can lead to harmful bacteria developing.  Wipe the surface with a cloth.

  • Wooden Toys and Train Sets – Wipe over. Allow time to thoroughly dry. These toys should not be immersed or soaked.

  • Duplo/Lego – Wash well with hot soapy water and a toothbrush.  Rinse and leave to drain overnight.

  • Bath toys – Please wash after using in the bath and ensure no water remains trapped in the toy.

  • Outdoor/Sandpit Toys, Bikes, scooters and other ride-ons – These must be cleaned well remembering that the next member may wish to use it inside.  Remove all sand and dirt and clean well with hot soapy water.

  • Board Games and Cardboard Puzzles – Please clean all plastic parts of the game or puzzle.  Paper-based materials, such as cardboard puzzles and games, are not considered a high risk for transmission and do not need additional cleaning procedures.

  • Fabric items (Dress-ups/Puppets/Dolls Bedding) – Hand wash or gentle machine wash with laundry detergent and hang to thoroughly line dry.

BTL BATH TOYS

If anyone in your family has been unwell (e.g. vomiting, diarrhoea, respiratory infection) please contact the toy library prior to returning the toy for further advice.