Community Playthings are worth caring for.
You already know that our products last for decades. Some of your equipment may have passed from one generation to another - ours has. We recommend a regular program of maintenance for keeping Community Playthings strong and beautiful. Refer to the specific Product Guide that came with your purchase for more maintenance suggestions. Replacement parts are available through your Account Manager, often at no cost.
Cleaning and disinfecting: Wooden products are best cleaned without excess water. Use warm soapy water, wipe with wet rag and then wipe dry. Where disinfecting is indicated, the widely recommended bleach solution is found not to harm Community Playthings.
Unfinished Maple: Community Unit Blocks are natural, unvarnished maple. If they become soiled, you can wash them. But remember, wood and water are natural enemies. Don't soak; work quickly. Use a stiff brush with dish washing detergent and water. Let the blocks dry thoroughly before next playtime.
Finished Wood: The clear finish used on all Community Playthings is guaranteed safe for children. To refinish, lightly sand the entire surface. Any remaining finish need not be removed. Then, following the manufacturer's instructions, apply one or two coats of childsafe varnish, using a brand you trust.
Wheeled Toys: Bearings (points where wheels revolve around axles) need regular lubrication, a drop or two of oil once a month. An even better lubricant is powdered graphite. Squirt a bit onto wheel bearings or ball bearings of casters. Wheeled toys will stay quiet and smooth-running for years under this care.
Carpet Cleaning: Our carpets are made of stain resistant nylon fiber. Vacuum carpets frequently. To wash them, lift any corner of the carpet to take it off, shampoo it with carpet cleaner, then replace the carpet when it is dry (on some products, partial disassembly is required for proper re-installation). For stubborn stains, refer to your Product Guide.
