How to Clean Your Board Games and Keep Them in Tip-Top Shape

Cleaning your board games is essential for maintaining their longevity and ensuring a pleasant gaming experience. The best method depends on the game’s components, but generally involves gentle cleaning techniques and preventative measures against damage and mold. Let’s dive into the details of how to keep your beloved board games sparkling clean!

Understanding Board Game Cleaning Basics

Before grabbing the first cleaning supply you see, consider the materials you’re dealing with. Board games are typically made of a combination of cardboard, paper, wood, and plastic. Each material requires a specific cleaning approach. Harsh chemicals or excessive moisture can easily damage these components, so gentleness is key. Always test your cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Cleaning Cardboard Game Boards

Cardboard is the heart of many board games, but it’s also incredibly susceptible to water damage.

• Dry Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber duster to remove dust and loose debris.
• Spot Cleaning: For spills or stains, gently dab the area with a slightly dampened sponge or cloth. Make sure to use minimal water and avoid rubbing vigorously, which can damage the cardboard.
• Soap and Water: If the stain is persistent, mix a tiny amount of mild dish soap with water. Lightly dampen your cloth, wring out any excess moisture, and gently dab the stain. Immediately dry the area with a clean, dry cloth.

Cleaning Paper Components (Cards, Rulebooks)

Paper components like cards and rulebooks are even more delicate than cardboard.

• Dry Cleaning is Best: Stick to dry cleaning methods whenever possible. A soft brush or compressed air can remove dust and crumbs.
• Handle with Care: When shuffling cards, avoid bending or creasing them. Use card sleeves to protect them from dirt and wear.
• Gentle Erasing: For minor smudges, a soft eraser can be used with gentle pressure.
• Rulebook TLC: Store rulebooks flat to prevent bending and creasing. Keep them away from liquids and food during gameplay.

Cleaning Wooden Game Pieces

Wooden game pieces are generally more durable than cardboard or paper.

• Dry Dusting: Regularly dust wooden pieces with a soft cloth.
• Soap and Water (Carefully): You can use mild soap and water for cleaning wooden pieces. Dampen a cloth, wipe the piece gently, and dry immediately.
• Furniture Polish (For Bare Wood): For bare wood pieces, you can use furniture polish to restore their shine. Be cautious when using these products.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the wood and any painted details.

Cleaning Plastic Game Pieces

Plastic pieces are often the easiest to clean.

• Soap and Water: Wash plastic pieces with warm soapy water. Use a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt and grime.
• Disinfecting Wipes: For disinfecting, you can use disinfecting wipes. Make sure to wipe off any residue with a damp cloth afterward.
• Dishwasher (Sometimes): Some plastic pieces are dishwasher-safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Place them in the top rack to avoid melting.

Dealing with Musty Smells

Old board games can sometimes develop a musty smell, especially if they’ve been stored in damp environments.

• Air It Out: The simplest solution is to air out the game in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
• Baking Soda: Place an open box of baking soda inside the game box to absorb odors. Replace the baking soda every few weeks.
• Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal is another excellent odor absorber. Place charcoal briquettes in a breathable container inside the game box.
• White Vinegar: Place a bowl of white vinegar near the game to neutralize odors.
• Dehumidifier: If you live in a humid climate, using a dehumidifier in your storage area can help prevent musty smells.

Protecting Your Board Games for the Long Term

Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to board game care.

• Proper Storage: Store your games in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Stackable Bins: Use stackable bins to organize your games and protect them from damage.
• Card Sleeves: Protect your cards with card sleeves to prevent wear and tear.
• Avoid Food and Drinks: Enforce a no-food-and-drinks policy during game nights.
• Handle with Care: Teach players to handle the game pieces and components with care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do you clean wooden game pieces with drawings on them?

Treat them as carefully as you would paper components. Lightly dust with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid water or harsh cleaners, which can damage the drawings. If necessary, use a very lightly dampened cloth and dry immediately.

2. What is the best way to clean a dirty puzzle?

Remove spills immediately with an absorbent cloth or paper towel. For heavily soiled areas, use a slightly dampened cloth with mild soap and water. Remove excess moisture with a clean, dry cloth. You can also use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust.

3. How do you prevent mold in board games?

Maintain a controlled humidity environment by using a dehumidifier. Store games in cardboard boxes to allow moisture to equalize. Ensure proper ventilation in your storage area.

4. How do I protect my old board games from wear and tear?

Apply a finish like Krylon Crystal Clear Acrylic to tiles and boards to provide an extra layer of protection. Use card sleeves for cards. Store games in protective boxes or bins.

5. How do you disinfect wooden puzzles safely for children?

Use a 100% ecological vinegar diluted in water. Spray the solution on the puzzle surface and let it air dry. Avoid harsh chemicals and disinfectants that can be toxic to children.

6. Can you vacuum puzzle pieces?

Yes, use a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris from puzzle boxes and bags. Be careful not to suck up any small pieces.

7. Does vinegar absorb musty smells in board games?

Yes, white vinegar can absorb musty smells. Place bowls of vinegar inside the game box or wipe the interior with a vinegar-dampened cloth.

8. What cleaner gets rid of musty smells effectively?

Activated charcoal and baking soda are excellent natural odor absorbers. Place them inside the game box and replace them every few weeks.

9. Can you use Clorox wipes on wooden toys or game pieces?

No, avoid using chemicals like disinfectant sprays, wipes, and wooden furniture cleaners as they can leave toxic residue.

10. What is the best way to clean wooden surfaces in board games?

Wipe wood furniture with a barely damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and grime. Quickly wipe it dry with another microfiber cloth. Don’t let water sit on wood.

11. What should I do with puzzles after I put them together?

You can glue and frame it, take a photo of it, gift it, swap it, save it, donate it, or even time yourself putting it together again!

12. What to do with puzzles with missing pieces?

If the missing piece is not a key element, you can draw it or scan and print it to match the colors and texture of the puzzle.

13. Does vinegar disinfect wood effectively?

Yes, vinegar is a natural and effective cleaning solution for wood furniture. It removes bacteria, dirt, and grime without harming the wood.

14. What kills germs on wood game pieces?

Rubbing wooden surfaces with half a lemon or spritzing them with vinegar can help sanitize and remove odors.

15. Is there any value to old board games?

Yes, vintage board games, especially rare or complete editions, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to collectors.

By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you can keep your board games in excellent condition for years to come, ensuring countless hours of fun for you, your family, and your friends. Be sure to also explore resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for more information on the educational and social benefits of gaming.