Keep toys well displayed, clean and safe

Toy storage is a critical component in both protecting your toys and their parts within the toy library, and whilst in transit to homes, as well as presenting them in an appealing way to spark interest from children and carers.  Toy storage may in part be decided by the nature of your space, whether you have fixed shelves, mobile racks or cupboards. 

Often, toys that you identify have not been borrowed in a long time may simply need to be displayed in a different way. 

We recommend that you record the cost of the toy storage as part of your toy replacement cost, and factor this into your missing piece policy. 

Storage Options 

Boxes 

Raeco Bags 

These are a brand of hanging bags commonly used in toy libraries and come in a range of sizes to suit different toys.  Raeco bags are available at discount via Toy Community. LINK* 

Bags with handles can be easy for borrowers to carry to their transport, or home, without damage to the toy from dropping. 

Other options 

• Garment bags for costumes 

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Cleaning Toys  

Safety 

Know your responsibilities about toy safety – ensure that everyone in your toy library responsible for toy buying and toy assessment and maintenance has watched both the Toy Safety & Maintenance online training, and current Insurance webinar, linked in the further resources section. 

Batteries 

Safety sheets that are required to go out with a borrow when it contains button batteries or lithium ion batteries, both types can be very hazardous and members need to be notified of the risks and how to reduce them.   

Bicycle helmets 

https://www.productsafety.gov.au/consumers/play-and-exercise-safely/use-sport-exercise-and-play-equipment-safely/bicycle-helmets-guide#toc-how-to-use-the-product-safely 

Link x2 helmet posters 

Toy Recall Alerts 

Toy Libraries Australia posts recall notices for toys that we identify are commonly

Toy Maintenance 

ACCC Choke Check – DIY safety tool 

Missing Pieces / Broken Toys