Question

What is the best way to clean/restore old plastic toys? I have toys from the 80s (Star Wars, He-Man, Transformers) that have been in plastic tubs for 20+ years. Many are sticky, and there's a bit of a smell from the tubs.

Answer 1

To clean and restore old plastic toys, especially those that have become sticky or have an unpleasant odor, follow these steps:

1. Preparation:

   • Find a well-ventilated area to work in, preferably outdoors or in a room with open windows.
   • Gather the necessary supplies, including mild dish soap, warm water, a soft cloth or sponge, a toothbrush, vinegar, baking soda, and a clean towel.

2. Initial Cleaning:

   • Start by removing any visible dust or debris from the toys using a soft cloth or brush. Gently wipe or brush the surfaces to avoid causing any scratches.

3. Washing with Mild Soap:

   • Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap. Mix it gently to create a soapy solution.
   • Submerge the toys in the soapy water and use a soft cloth or sponge to wash the surfaces. Gently scrub the sticky areas to remove dirt and grime.
   • If the toys have intricate details or small crevices, use a toothbrush to reach those areas and clean them thoroughly.
   • Rinse the toys with clean water to remove any soap residue.

4. Treating Stickiness:

   • For sticky toys, a solution of vinegar and water can help remove the stickiness. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl.
   • Dip a cloth or sponge into the vinegar solution and wipe the sticky areas of the toys. Let the vinegar solution sit on the surface for a few minutes to dissolve the stickiness.
   • Afterward, rinse the toys with clean water to remove any vinegar residue.

5. Deodorizing with Baking Soda:

   • To eliminate any lingering odors, create a baking soda paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water.
   • Apply the baking soda paste to the toys and gently rub it over the surfaces. Allow it to sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb odors.
   • Afterward, rinse the toys thoroughly with clean water and dry them using a clean towel.

6. Drying and Storing:

   • After cleaning, ensure the toys are completely dry before storing them to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
   • Place the toys on a clean towel or allow them to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
   • Once dry, store the toys in a clean and dry environment, preferably in a plastic container or bag to protect them from dust and moisture.

Remember to always test any cleaning solutions or methods on a small, inconspicuous area of the toy first to ensure they don't cause any damage or discoloration. Additionally, some vintage plastic toys may have fragile or painted parts that require extra care during the cleaning process.