A few years of toddler hands, snacks, and sticky fingers leaves most Duplo bins looking pretty grubby. The good news: Duplo is tough, washable plastic, and there are a few easy ways to get it looking fresh again — whether you're about to sell it, hand it down, or just want it clean for a change.
Option 1: The dishwasher
The easiest method for a big batch. Pop pieces in a mesh dishwasher basket or laundry bag so they don't scatter or fall through to the heating element, load them on the top rack, and run a normal cycle. The one thing to skip is the heated dry setting — sustained heat can warp or dull plastic over time. Just open the door at the end of the cycle and let pieces air dry instead.
Option 2: The washing machine
Sounds unusual, but it works well for a large mixed bin. Tie the pieces into a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase knotted shut, and run a cold or lukewarm cycle with a gentle or no spin. Skip the tumble dryer — air dry on a towel instead. This method is oddly satisfying for a bin that's been sitting untouched for months.
Option 3: By hand
For smaller amounts, or if you'd rather not risk the machines: fill a sink or basin with warm water and a squirt of washing-up liquid, tip the pieces in, and swirl them around. A soft brush (an old toothbrush works well) helps get into the studs and tubes where grime collects. Rinse in clean water and spread out on a towel to air dry.
What to avoid
- Bleach or harsh chemicals — can dull colours over time.
- Very hot water — risks warping.
- Heated drying (dishwasher heat-dry or tumble dryer) — same warping risk, and it's unnecessary since plastic air-dries quickly anyway.
- Anything with paper, stickers, or electronics attached — genuine Duplo pieces don't have these, so it's rarely an issue, but worth a quick check before submerging anything.
Drying tips
Spread pieces out on a towel or drying rack rather than piling them wet — trapped moisture in stud tubes can take a while to fully dry otherwise. A few hours to overnight is usually enough. Avoid drying in direct sun for extended periods, which can fade colours.
If you're cleaning it to sell
A wash isn't required to sell your Duplo to us — normal wear and a bit of grime doesn't affect your offer. But clean pieces are quicker for us to check when your parcel arrives, so if you've got ten minutes, it's genuinely appreciated.