1. Disinfecting toys, furniture and equipment Georgia CTAE Resource Network Instructional Resources Office July 2009

2. Sanitation of Toys and Furniture -To Clean is to remove visible dirt, filth or unwanted substances or impurities from a surface. -To Sanitize is to reduce the bacteria and other harmful substances on a cleaned surface to safe levels. -To Disinfect is to kill and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses.

3. Proper Procedures for Cleaning and Sanitizing 1. Wash vigorously with hot, soapy water. Use a brush to get into all the cracks and crevices 2. Rinse with clean water 3. Immerse in a sanitizer solution for at least two minutes 4. Air-dry or wipe with a clean disposable towel after 2 minutes

4. Requirements for Childcare Settings Toys are required to be cleaned and sanitized to help reduce the spread of diseases and illnesses. -This needs to be done at least once a week. -In infant rooms and rooms where children are not potty-trained, the toys are to be cleaned and sanitized daily.

5. Requirements for Childcare Settings cont. -Children should be closely supervised during playtime. -Contamination of hands, toys and other objects such as tables and chairs all play a role in the spread of disease in child care centers.

6. The Spread of Germs -When children put toys in their mouths or touch toys, cribs and furniture and other surfaces with hands that have been in their mouths during play, these items become contaminated with their saliva.

7. The Spread of Germs -Child to child interactions easily spread germs if not supervised properly. -The cleaning and sanitizing of all surfaces will help reduce the spread of infection and disease among children and childcare staff.

8. Choosing Toys -Good rule of thumb- choose toys that can be easily cleaned and sanitized. -This would include: Plastic Legos- that can be thrown in a mesh bag and put into dishwasher.

9. Choosing Toys cont. -Soft, plush toys, dress-up clothes and pillows that are machine washable. - A bin labeled "soiled" or "dirty" may be used for toys that have been placed in the mouth or otherwise contaminated with bodily fluids.

10. Recourses www.co.guilford.nc.us