There are multiple ways to clean hard toys:

1. Clean hard toys in a dishwasher with a sanitizer cycle. Use dishwasher detergent to clean the toys. The heat of the sanitizer cycle will sanitize the toys.
2. Clean toys with dish soap and water. Rinse, then sanitize the toys with a mixture of one teaspoon (5 ml) household bleach (5% - 6% chlorine) in two cups (1/2 litre) of water. Allow the toys to air dry.
3. Clean toys with dish soap and water. Wipe toys with a cloth soaked in a disinfectant or with a commercial disinfecting wipe. Be sure to rinse the toys thoroughly in warm water to remove chemicals left behind; some chemicals are harmful to children. Allow toys to air dry.

There are  many disinfectants in stores. Make sure that the disinfectant you use is safe for children and follow the maker’s instructions.

Clean stuffed toys in a washer with laundry soap.

Dry in a dryer on a normal setting.

Water tables

Water tables can be a source of germs. Children can introduce germs when they put their hands into the water and take germs away when they take their hands out.

Children should wash their hands before and after playing at a water table. Change the water in water tables regularly. Fill with clean water in the morning. Drain at lunch time and refill for afternoon play.

Drain the water table at the end of the day, then clean and sanitize the table and the toys, as above.

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