Do you need to wash a new toy before first use?

What is on it

Two things. Mould release agent — a fine residue left from manufacturing, used so the item comes out of its mould cleanly. And packaging dust, especially on soft TPE, which picks up fibres in transit.

Neither is dangerous in the quantities involved. Both are worth rinsing off, and both come off with warm water and a mild cleaner.

How to wash it, by material

• Silicone — lukewarm water, a pH-neutral toy cleaner or mild unscented soap. Rinse, dry fully.
• TPE — the same, but be gentler; hot water softens the surface. Dust with renewing powder once dry.
• Metal — water and soap, or a brief boil if you want to sterilise it.
• Anything with a motor — wipe the body, keep water out of the charging port, and do not submerge unless the page says water-resistant.

The one thing not to do

Do not charge it first and use it straight out of the box. Charge it, yes — but wash it before the first use, not after.

And do not use alcohol, bleach or household surface cleaner on any of it. They degrade soft materials and leave residue of their own.

Batteries and first charge

Rechargeable devices usually arrive partly charged. A full charge before first use is fine and takes an hour or two.

If the device has a removable sleeve, take it out before washing so water does not sit between the sleeve and the shell.