Posted on: Sunday, May 12, 2002

Book outlines safe cleaning

Associated Press

Moms and dads clean their kids and, often, their kids' rooms. But while the toys get picked up, sometimes they don't get scrubbed.

A new book from Consumer Reports, "How To Clean and Care for Practically Anything" (Consumer Reports Special Publications, $16.95), offers tips on safe and effective cleaning of toys.

Small plastic toys can go in the dishwasher, for instance. A toothbrush dipped in a mixture of baking soda and dishwashing liquid can get marks off plastic toys; just be sure to sponge the soap off.

If a stuffed toy is marked "all new materials," it can go in the washing machine, but be mindful of long hair or other long fibers that might get caught in the agitator. Another option is to put it in a plastic bag filled with baking soda and shake thoroughly, then brush off the powder over a sink or outside.