Your Step2® toys and home products have been a part of countless memories, from backyard adventures with the kids to relaxing afternoons by the pool. By following these simple cleaning steps, you can help ensure they remain a part of your family's story for many years to come.
For light dirt and debris, you can easily maintain the appearance and quality of your plastic toys, pool furniture, and planters with two simple options: a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water or a mild soap and water solution. These gentle methods are perfect for routine upkeep, preserving the look and feel of your favorite Step2 products. If your items need a deeper clean, check out our power washing recommendations below.
Cleaning Everyday Dirt & Debris from Step2 Plastic Toys and Home Items
Option 1: Vinegar & Water Mixture:
For the removal of everyday dirt and debris, we recommend using a simple 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water. This natural cleaning solution is effective at breaking down grime, is safe for most surfaces, and is free from harsh chemicals. Vinegar’s antibacterial properties also help sanitize toys, making it a great option for items frequently handled by children.
Ideal for Cleaning:
- Indoor toys: play kitchens, art desks and easels, holiday toys, etc.
- Kids : toddler beds, picnic tables, kids step stools, etc.
Materials Needed:
- Vinegar
- Water
- Soft cloth
- Spray bottle
Instructions:
- Mix the Solution: Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle for easy application.
- Apply to the Surface: Lightly spray the solution onto the toy’s surface or directly onto the soft cloth.
- Gently Scrub: Use the cloth to wipe down and scrub the affected areas, paying extra attention to highly touched areas and crevices where dirt might build up.
- For Tougher Spots: Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes on stubborn areas to help break down grime.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Wipe down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
- Dry Completely: Use a separate cloth to dry thoroughly.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid getting the electronic or battery-operated areas of the toy wet.
- Use a toothbrush to reach into small grooves and detailed areas.
Option 2: Mild Soap & Water Mixture:
For a gentle yet effective clean, a mild soap-and-water solution is an excellent choice. This versatile cleaning method works well on a variety of surfaces, effortlessly lifting away dirt and grime. The mild soap provides a thorough clean without damaging the material, making it ideal for routine maintenance of frequently used items.
Ideal for Cleaning:
- Outdoor toys: sand and water tables, playhouses, kids’ roller coasters, etc.
- Outdoor planters
- In-water pool loungers, chairs, tables, etc.
Materials Needed:
- Bucket of water or garden hose
- Mild dish soap
- Soft cloth, sponge, or soft-bristled brush
Instructions:
- Prep the Surface: For outdoor items, use a hose to remove as much loose dirt and debris as possible.
- Prepare the Mixture: Add a small amount of mild dish soap to a bucket of water and mix well until it lathers. You can also add the soap directly to the product if it has no electronic elements.
- Apply to the Surface: Dip a soft cloth, sponge, or soft-bristled brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the dirty areas. Focus on areas where dirt tends to accumulate, such as grooves and joints.
- For Tougher Stains: Let the soapy solution sit on stubborn spots for a few minutes to help loosen grime before scrubbing.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Use a garden hose or a separate cloth dampened with clean water to rinse away any soap residue.
- Air Dry: Allow the items to dry completely in the sun or use a clean towel to wipe them down.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid using steel wool or abrasive scrubbers to prevent scratches on plastic surfaces.
- If dirt persists, repeat the process as needed, or continue reading on how to use a power washer for extra stubborn stains.
- When cleaning outdoor planters, be sure to keep soap away from your plants, as residues can disrupt their natural health and soil balance.
Power Washing: How to Remove Stubborn Stains from Plastic Toys & Pool Furniture
When everyday cleaning isn’t enough, power washing is another good way to tackle tough stains like sunscreen or lotion residue, scuff marks, paint splatters, and marker stains. Outdoor toys, planters, and pool items can accumulate these stubborn spots over time, but a power washer can quickly restore your items to their original condition, leaving them looking like new again.
Ideal for Cleaning:
- In-water pool furniture
- Stubborn stains on outdoor toys
Materials Needed:
- Power washer
- Wide fan tip (required)
- Garden hose for pre-rinsing (optional)
Instructions:
- Set Up the Power Washer: Attach a wide fan tip to your power washer and adjust it to a low or medium pressure setting to prevent damage to plastic surfaces.
- Pre-Rinse (Optional): If items have heavy mud or large debris, consider pre-rinsing with a garden hose before using the power washer.
- Spray the Surface: Hold the power washer at a slight angle and keep it about 1-2 feet away from the item. Spray the entire surface evenly to remove stains, moving in a sweeping motion.
- For Stubborn Stains: For areas with heavy buildup or set-in stains, go over them a few times, maintaining a consistent distance and pressure to avoid damaging the plastic.
- Final Rinse and Dry: Once the stains are gone, rinse again with clean water if necessary and air dry.
Additional Tips:
- If you’re cleaning items with decals, avoid spraying directly over them to prevent them from peeling. Replacement decals for playhouses or toys can be purchased at step2.com.
- For smaller stains that need precision cleaning, consider using a soft-bristle brush with a small amount of dish soap in addition to the power washer.
Note: Always use caution when operating a power washer. Start at a lower pressure to test on a small area before cleaning the entire surface.
Keep Your Step2 Items Clean for Years to Come
By incorporating these cleaning methods into your regular maintenance routine, you can keep your Step2 toys, planters, and pool furniture looking fresh and new for years to come. Not only will this preserve their appearance, but it will also extend their lifespan, ensuring that your Step2 products continue to be a part of your family's outdoor fun and relaxation for many seasons (and generations!) to come. Happy cleaning!