The easiest and generally safest way to clean used board books is by wiping them down with rubbing alcohol.
Cleaning Board Books with Rubbing Alcohol
Using rubbing alcohol (70% Isopropyl Alcohol is recommended) is a good option for sanitizing glossy board books. This is because the glossy coating typically protects the book from being damaged by the alcohol.
Steps for Cleaning Board Books:
- Prepare your materials: You will need 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol, a clean cloth (microfiber cloths work well), and a well-ventilated area.
- Dampen the cloth: Lightly dampen the cloth with the rubbing alcohol. Do not soak the cloth, as excess moisture can still damage the book.
- Wipe the book: Gently wipe down the covers and each page of the board book with the damp cloth.
- Allow to air dry: Let the board book air dry completely before allowing children to handle it again. This ensures that the alcohol has evaporated and the book is properly sanitized.
Important Considerations:
- Glossy Covers and Pages: This method is best suited for books with glossy covers and pages that are more resistant to moisture.
- Test First: Before cleaning the entire book, test a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the alcohol doesn't damage the print or the book's surface.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling too much alcohol vapor.
- Avoid Saturation: Do not saturate the book with alcohol, as this could cause damage.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean and sanitize used board books, making them safe for children to enjoy.
