How To Clean Outdoor Garden Toys

From thrilling adventures on swing sets to creative pavement masterpieces with giant chalks, your outdoor space is where the best memories are made. But all that outdoor fun means your beloved garden toys can gather their fair share of dirt over time.

Keeping your outdoor play equipment clean isn’t just about the garden looking good. It’s a vital part of ensuring healthy play for your child, and it also helps outdoor toys last much longer.

Why Do I Need to Clean Outdoor Toys?

Regular cleaning and maintenance of garden toys ensures:

• Healthier Play: Washes away germs, pollen, and extra dirt that curious toddlers might encounter.
• Increases Toy Longevity: Protects toys from damage caused by grime, helping durable materials last even longer.
• Enhanced Safety: This allows you to spot any wear and tear before it becomes an issue.
• Boosts Fun: Clean toys are simply more inviting and encourage more play, supporting physical development and motor skills through physical activity.

What to Clean Outside Toys With?

For most garden toys, these everyday heroes will do the trick:

• Gentle Soap or Dish Detergent: A mild detergent is perfect.
• Warm Water: Your go-to for most cleaning tasks. Hot water can be used cautiously for tough stains on robust plastics, but always test a small area first.
• Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda): A non-abrasive scouring superstar for tougher stains.
• Brushes: A soft brush is excellent for general washing. For more stubborn grime, we recommend a scrubbing brush or bristle brush. For awkward or tricky spots, try a bottle brush!
• Cloths: A damp cloth for wiping and drying.
• Bucket or Tub: This is used to mix your cleaning solution and make it easy to rinse.

How Do You Clean Plastic Toys That Have Been Outside?

Outdoor toys see a lot of action over time. Here’s our expert guide on how to clean plastic outdoor toys effectively:

1. Prep & Pre-Clean:

• Give toys a good shake or a once-over with a soft brush to dislodge loose dirt, leaves, cobwebs, and any other debris.

2. The Cleaning Solution:

• Mix your cleaning solution: A squirt of gentle soap or dish detergent into a bucket of warm water.

3. Time to Scrub:

• General Clean: Dip your soft brush or damp cloth into the soapy water and wipe down the entire plastic surface. This works great for less grimy items.
• Stubborn Dirt & Stains: A scrubbing brush will come in handy for more persistent marks.
• Tough Stains & Tougher Stains: Create a baking soda paste by mixing baking soda with a few cups of water until it forms a thick paste. Apply to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a bristle brush. This is also great for accidental chalk marks where they shouldn’t be!
• Pro-Tip: While commercial plastic cleaner is an option, mild soap and baking soda often do the job just as well and are gentler.

4. Rinse Thoroughly:

• Use a garden hose or buckets of clean water to rinse away all soap residues. Ensure the entire playhouse and all crevices are clear.

5. Dry Off:

• Let toys air dry in the sunshine if possible. Alternatively, wipe them down with a clean, dry cloth.

How Do You Clean an Outdoor Wooden Playhouse?

For outdoor playhouses, use a damp cloth and a very mild cleaning solution. Avoid soaking the wood; wipe down all surfaces and dry thoroughly. To increase the longevity of wooden playhouses, we suggest applying a child-safe protective layer or sealant annually.

What Can I Use to Clean an Inflatable Pool?

Start by emptying the water, then use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the sides and base, paying extra attention to any slippery patches or build-up. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let it air dry in the sun, as UV rays can help kill any lingering bacteria. For deeper cleans, consider using a mild disinfectant that’s safe for kids. Always ensure the pool is dry before storing it away to prevent mould and mildew. Keeping your paddling pool clean is essential for safe splashing fun!

How Do You Clean Outdoor Water Tables & Sandpits?

Start by emptying it completely. Scrub the surfaces vigorously with soapy water and a scrubbing brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Ensure the surfaces are completely dry before refilling.

How to Store Outdoor Toys

Protecting toys from damp winter weather is crucial during colder months. For smaller items, we recommend using durable storage containers. We recommend a dry, well-ventilated storage area like a shed or garage for bulkier items. Ensure toys are clean and completely dry before storing to prevent mould or mildew.

Keeping your garden toys clean and well-cared for means your child will have endless hours of fun, with outdoor toys to support their physical activity and spark their imagination. Even the dirtiest items can be brought back to life with a little TLC!