If you've ever tried to clean an old rubber or plastic toy you know that soap and water won't always do the trick. You have to be very careful as well when using solvents or harsh cleaning products because they may actually destroy the item you're trying to salvage!

There are two products that have produced fantastic results for me. The first one is called OOPS. You can find it in most hardware stores. It is just great for removing sticky residue like that left behind by tape or labels. It also will remove marker with varying degrees of success but be sure to rub the spot only a couple of times with a paper towel then get a fresh one or you might just end up smearing the marker to other areas. It also works great on glossy book covers and most non-pourous hardback books.

For cleaning grimy or heavily soiled plastic or rubber the Mr. Clean Magic Erasers (extra strength) are really magic! I usually cut mine into small squares so I have more control over the area I'm cleaning. These sponges seem to work well if you use hot water as opposed to cold water. Besides cleaning plastic and rubber, these sponges are simply unbelievably great in the kitchen. If you have a glass top stove you have to try this product! I just can't say enough about them. Things that would take me 10 minutes to clean now only take a few seconds! It's so nice to find a product that actually does what it claims to do!

I hope this guide is helpful.  :)