Cleaning old dusty LEGO bricks is straightforward using a simple hand-washing method recommended by LEGO.
The Official Recommended Method
To effectively clean your old dusty LEGO parts, the official recommendation is to use a gentle hand-washing approach. This method ensures that the quality and clutch power of your bricks are preserved.
The process involves:
- Using water that is no hotter than 104°F / 40°C. This specific temperature limit is crucial because higher temperatures can potentially affect the plastic's quality.
- Employing a soft cloth or sponge for cleaning. This avoids scratching or damaging the brick surfaces.
- Optionally, adding a mild detergent to the water. If you use detergent, it's essential to rinse the parts well with clear water afterwards to remove any residue.
After washing and rinsing, ensure the parts are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold or mildew. Air drying spread out on a towel is often the simplest method.
Why Temperature Matters
As highlighted by the recommendation, maintaining the water temperature at or below 104°F / 40°C is vital. Exceeding this temperature could negatively impact the quality of the LEGO parts, potentially leading to warping, discoloration, or reduced clutch strength over time.
Quick Guide: Cleaning Steps
Here is a summary of the recommended cleaning steps:
- Prepare a basin or sink with water no hotter than 104°F / 40°C.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent to the water, if desired (this is optional).
- Place the dusty LEGO parts into the water.
- Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently wipe or scrub the parts to remove dust and grime.
- Drain the soapy water and rinse the parts well with clear water to remove all soap residue.
- Allow the parts to air dry thoroughly before reassembling or storing.
By following these simple steps, your old dusty LEGO collection can look and feel clean again, ready for new building adventures.
