Learning About Epp Foam Building Blocks: Grades, Material Standards, and Industrial Applications

Types of EPP Foam Building Blocks

Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) foam building blocks have surged in popularity as a safe, lightweight, and durable option for children's construction toys. Known for their high impact resistance and excellent energy absorption, EPP blocks are ideal for active play environments. They are non-toxic, easy to clean, and environmentally friendly—making them a top choice for parents, educators, and childcare centers.

With a wide variety of designs and functionalities, choosing the right EPP foam blocks can enhance creativity, motor skills, and imaginative development. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common types available on the market today.

Standard Shape Blocks

Cubes, rectangular prisms, pyramids, and basic geometric forms make up this foundational category. These are the "building blocks" of any EPP construction set.

Advantages

• Easy for toddlers and infants to grasp and stack
• Promotes spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination
• Encourages open-ended, creative play
• Compatible with other block systems for expanded building

Limitations

• Limited structural complexity without additional components
• May become repetitive for older children

Best for: Early childhood development, preschool classrooms, sensory play

Specialty Shape Blocks

These include functional elements like arches, bridges, wheels, rooftops, and connectors designed to expand creative possibilities.

Advantages

• Enables construction of vehicles, buildings, and moving parts
• Supports role-playing and narrative development
• Introduces engineering concepts through play
• Enhances engagement for school-aged children

Limitations

• Slightly more complex for very young children
• May require adult guidance for optimal use

Best for: STEM learning, imaginative storytelling, group play activities

Interlocking EPP Foam Blocks

Designed with tabs, slots, or peg systems that allow pieces to securely connect, these blocks offer a more stable construction experience.

Advantages

• Prevents accidental collapse during play
• Develops fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities
• Ideal for creating complex, durable structures
• Encourages step-by-step assembly thinking

Limitations

• Less flexibility in freeform building
• May be frustrating for younger children without guidance

Best for: Skill-building play, structured learning environments, older toddlers and preschoolers

Themed EPP Foam Blocks

Pre-designed sets centered around specific themes such as castles, space stations, jungle adventures, or cities, often featuring printed graphics or color schemes.

Advantages

• Encourages story-based and imaginative play
• Appeals to children with specific interests (e.g., dinosaurs, astronauts)
• Provides a narrative framework for building
• Great for themed classrooms or birthday parties

Limitations

• Less versatile for open-ended creation
• Graphics may wear over time with heavy use

Best for: Themed playrooms, gift sets, children with strong interests in specific topics

Soft Puzzle Foam Blocks

These blocks function like 3D puzzles—comprised of multiple interconnecting soft pieces that form a larger shape when assembled.

Advantages

• Boosts cognitive development and pattern recognition
• Improves hand-eye coordination and dexterity
• Adds challenge and variety to building play
• Double-duty as both puzzle and construction toy

Limitations

• Requires higher concentration and patience
• Not ideal for very young children without assistance

Best for: Cognitive development, Montessori-style learning, quiet time or focused play

Type	Age Suitability	Creative Flexibility	Educational Value	Best Use Case
Standard Shape Blocks	6 months – 5 years	Excellent	High (motor & spatial skills)	Early learning, free play
Specialty Shape Blocks	3 – 8 years	Very Good	Very High (STEM & imagination)	Advanced building, role-play
Interlocking EPP Blocks	2 – 7 years	Good	High (problem-solving)	Skill development, structured play
Themed EPP Blocks	3 – 10 years	Fair	Medium (narrative focus)	Themed play, gifts
Soft Puzzle Foam Blocks	4 – 8 years	Good	Very High (cognitive skills)	Puzzle play, focused learning

Expert Tip: For maximum longevity and hygiene, clean EPP foam blocks with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid submerging them in water or using harsh chemicals, as this can degrade the foam over time. Store in a dry, cool place to maintain structural integrity.

Design of EPP Foam Building Blocks

Durable, non-toxic, and exceptionally lightweight, EPP (Expanded Polypropylene) foam building blocks are expertly engineered for children’s developmental toys. These blocks combine safety, educational value, and fun in one versatile play system. Thoughtful design ensures that children can explore, build, and learn in a secure environment. Below is an in-depth exploration of the essential design elements that make EPP foam blocks ideal for early childhood development and imaginative play.

Key Design Attributes of EPP Foam Blocks

Safety Features

Safety is the foremost priority in designing toys for young children, especially toddlers and preschoolers who are still developing coordination and spatial awareness. EPP foam blocks are made from non-toxic, BPA-free, and phthalate-free materials, ensuring they are safe even if mouthed or accidentally ingested. Their soft, cushioned structure eliminates sharp edges and hard surfaces, significantly reducing the risk of injury during play—even if a block is dropped or a structure collapses.

The inherent shock-absorbing properties of EPP foam make these blocks ideal for active play environments where collisions and falls are common. This safety profile supports confident exploration and physical engagement, allowing children to build tall towers, crawl through tunnels, or knock down structures without fear of harm.

Durability and Lightweight Construction

Despite their light weight, EPP foam blocks are remarkably durable and resilient. The expanded polypropylene material is engineered to withstand repeated impacts, compression, and rough handling—common occurrences in children’s play. Unlike plastic or wooden blocks, EPP foam does not crack, splinter, or degrade easily, making it a long-lasting investment for homes, classrooms, and daycare centers.

The lightweight nature of the blocks allows even the youngest children to lift, carry, stack, and rearrange them with ease. This encourages independent play, motor skill development, and creative experimentation. At the same time, the material is sturdy enough to support multi-level constructions, promoting spatial reasoning and engineering thinking in a safe, accessible way.

Variety of Shapes and Sizes

EPP foam blocks are available in a wide range of geometric forms—from basic cubes and rectangular prisms to arches, cylinders, pyramids, and interlocking pieces. This diversity stimulates cognitive development by introducing children to concepts such as symmetry, balance, proportion, and geometry.

Different sizes enable comparative learning: children naturally grasp ideas like "bigger," "smaller," "taller," and "wider" through hands-on play. The variety also fuels creativity, allowing kids to design complex structures like castles, bridges, mazes, or abstract sculptures. Open-ended play with varied shapes fosters problem-solving skills and encourages collaborative building projects.

Textured Surfaces for Sensory Engagement

Many EPP foam blocks feature textured surfaces—such as grooves, bumps, ridges, or patterned imprints—that enhance tactile exploration. These textures provide rich sensory input, which is crucial for sensory integration and fine motor development in young children.

Children can differentiate blocks by touch, sort them by surface feel, or use the textures as part of imaginative storytelling (e.g., "bumpy" rocks or "smooth" ice). This multisensory experience supports neural development and keeps children engaged longer, deepening their focus and creativity during play sessions.

Easy-to-Clean Design

Children’s toys inevitably encounter spills, food, dirt, and germs. EPP foam blocks are designed for easy maintenance: their closed-cell foam structure resists moisture absorption and bacterial growth. Cleaning is simple—just wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Most spills and stains can be removed without soaking or deep scrubbing.

This low-maintenance feature makes EPP blocks ideal for busy parents, educators, and caregivers. The hygienic design ensures that toys remain safe and clean, even with daily use in group settings. Additionally, the material dries quickly and does not retain odors, preserving the toy’s freshness over time.

Educational and Developmental Benefits

Beyond physical design, EPP foam blocks are crafted to support holistic child development. Stacking and balancing blocks enhance hand-eye coordination, bilateral coordination, and gross motor skills. Collaborative building promotes social skills such as sharing, communication, and teamwork.

Cognitively, children learn about cause and effect, gravity, and structural stability. The open-ended nature of foam block play encourages creativity, imagination, and narrative thinking. Educators often use these blocks in STEM/STEAM activities to introduce foundational engineering and architectural concepts in a playful, accessible format.

Design Feature	Developmental Benefit	Practical Advantage
Soft, edge-free construction	Safe for sensory and physical exploration	Reduces injury risk; suitable for toddlers
Lightweight & durable	Encourages independent play and motor skills	Long-lasting; easy to store and transport
Multiple shapes and sizes	Teaches geometry, size comparison, spatial reasoning	Promotes creative and collaborative building
Textured surfaces	Enhances tactile and sensory development	Engages children with different learning styles
Easy to clean	Supports healthy play environments	Low maintenance; ideal for schools and daycares

Best Practices for Use and Care

Regular Inspection: Check blocks periodically for deep cuts, tears, or significant compression. While EPP is highly resilient, extreme damage may compromise safety or structural integrity.

Cleaning Routine: Wipe down blocks weekly or after heavy use. Avoid harsh chemicals or submersion in water to preserve material quality.

Storage Tips: Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight to prevent UV degradation and maintain shape over time.

Age-Appropriate Play: Supervise very young children to ensure proper use and prevent misuse (e.g., standing on unstable structures).

Encourage Open-Ended Play: Provide ample time and space for unstructured building to maximize creative and cognitive benefits.

Note: Always ensure that EPP foam blocks meet international safety standards (such as ASTM F963 or EN71) before purchase. Avoid using damaged blocks in play areas, and replace them as needed. Proper supervision and maintenance ensure that these toys remain a safe, educational, and joyful part of childhood development.

Scenarios of EPP Foam Building Blocks

Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) foam building blocks are revolutionizing play, learning, and therapy environments with their unique combination of safety, durability, and versatility. These lightweight yet resilient blocks are increasingly used across diverse settings—from daycare centers to therapeutic clinics—due to their ability to foster creativity, collaboration, and cognitive development. Their soft, impact-absorbing structure ensures child safety, while their resistance to moisture and ease of cleaning make them ideal for high-use, hygiene-sensitive environments.

Home Activity for Preschoolers

EPP foam building blocks are an exceptional choice for at-home play, especially for preschool-aged children. Their lightweight design and soft edges allow young children to build and knock down structures safely, encouraging repeated experimentation and imaginative storytelling.

• Promotes fine motor development through stacking, connecting, and balancing activities
• Encourages spatial awareness and early engineering concepts during free-form play
• Safe for indoor use on hardwood or tile floors, and durable enough for outdoor play in backyards or patios
• Supports both independent play and cooperative building with siblings or parents

Parent tip: Use themed builds (like castles, garages, or animal habitats) to spark narrative play and language development.

Therapeutic Use in Occupational Therapy

In clinical and therapeutic settings, EPP foam blocks serve as valuable tools for improving motor skills, sensory integration, and social interaction. Their consistent size, lightweight nature, and non-toxic composition make them ideal for structured therapeutic exercises.

• Enhances fine motor control as children grasp, align, and connect blocks during precision tasks
• Supports gross motor development through large-scale constructions that require reaching, bending, and moving
• Used in balance and coordination activities, such as building obstacle courses or stepping platforms
• Facilitates group therapy sessions by promoting turn-taking, communication, and collaborative problem-solving

Therapist insight: The softness of EPP reduces anxiety in sensory-sensitive children, making it easier to engage in hands-on activities.

Family Bonding Activities

EPP foam blocks offer a shared creative outlet that brings families together across generations. Unlike digital entertainment, these blocks encourage face-to-face interaction, teamwork, and shared accomplishment.

• Enables collaborative projects such as building forts, mazes, or cityscapes as a family
• Suitable for all ages—toddlers can knock down, older kids can design, and adults can assist with complex structures
• Promotes communication, patience, and mutual respect during group building challenges
• Creates lasting memories through photo-worthy creations and playful competition

Family fun idea: Host a weekly "Build Night" with themes like "Space Station" or "Zoo Adventure" to keep engagement high.

Educational Settings and STEM Activities

In classrooms and learning centers, EPP foam blocks are powerful tools for introducing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) concepts in a hands-on, engaging way. Teachers can use them to demonstrate principles of physics, geometry, and design thinking without the risks associated with heavier or sharper materials.

• Teaches foundational engineering concepts like stability, symmetry, and load distribution
• Introduces math skills such as counting, sorting, measuring, and pattern recognition
• Supports inquiry-based learning—students test hypotheses by building and modifying structures
• Reduces classroom management challenges during playtime due to quiet, safe, and non-disruptive nature

Educator benefit: EPP blocks are easier to store, clean, and supervise than traditional wooden or plastic blocks, saving time and reducing stress.

Professional Recommendation: When selecting EPP foam building blocks for any setting, prioritize sets with uniform sizing, interlocking features, and bright, engaging colors. For educational or therapeutic use, consider purchasing modular kits that allow for scalability and integration into structured curricula or therapy plans. Always ensure the material is 100% recyclable and free from harmful chemicals to support both child safety and environmental responsibility.

Use Case	Key Benefits	Ideal Age Group	Recommended Features
Home Play	Safety, portability, imagination stimulation	2–8 years	Lightweight, colorful, easy to clean
Occupational Therapy	Motor skill development, sensory safety	3–12 years (all ages with modifications)	Smooth edges, consistent size, non-toxic
Family Activities	Intergenerational engagement, teamwork	2–adult	Durable, stackable, large variety of shapes
Classroom STEM Learning	Conceptual learning, collaboration, safety	4–10 years	Interlocking design, measurement markings, storage-friendly

Additional Considerations

• Hygiene & Maintenance: EPP foam is naturally resistant to bacteria and can be wiped down with mild soap and water, making it ideal for shared environments.
• Environmental Impact: High-quality EPP is 100% recyclable and has a lower carbon footprint compared to plastic alternatives.
• Storage & Portability: Blocks are lightweight and often come with storage bins or mesh bags for easy organization.
• Customization: Some manufacturers offer branded or custom-colored blocks for schools and therapy centers.
• Acoustic Properties: Unlike hard plastic or wood, EPP blocks make minimal noise when dropped, reducing classroom disruption.

Specification & Maintenance of EPP Foam Building Blocks

Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) foam building blocks have become one of the most popular construction toys for children due to their unique combination of softness, durability, and safety. These lightweight yet resilient blocks are ideal for hands-on play across various age groups—from infants to older children—and support cognitive development through creative, open-ended building activities. Understanding the material specifications and proper care techniques is essential for maximizing their lifespan, hygiene, and educational value in both home and classroom environments.

Safety Note: While EPP foam blocks are inherently safe and non-toxic, always supervise young children during play to prevent accidental ingestion of small parts or misuse. Inspect blocks regularly for damage and remove any compromised pieces immediately.

Detailed Specifications of EPP Foam Building Blocks

EPP foam is a high-performance thermoplastic foam known for its excellent energy absorption, thermal insulation, and resistance to repeated impacts—making it an ideal material for children's building blocks. Unlike brittle plastics or heavy wooden sets, EPP blocks are soft to the touch, lightweight, and virtually unbreakable under normal use.

• Material Composition: Made from expanded polypropylene, a recyclable and eco-friendly foam that retains its shape after compression.
• Dimensions & Design: Blocks typically range from 50mm to 100mm per side, with standard sets averaging around 70mm. Available in basic geometric shapes (cubes, cylinders, arches) as well as complex interlocking designs.
• Weight & Texture: Extremely lightweight (often under 100 grams per block), with smooth or subtly textured surfaces to enhance grip and sensory engagement.
• Color & Aesthetics: Molded in vibrant, non-toxic dyes that resist fading. Some sets feature patterned surfaces or connectors for enhanced structural stability.
• Age Suitability: Safe for infants and toddlers due to soft edges and light weight; also engaging for older children due to creative building potential.
• Educational Benefits: Promotes fine motor skills, spatial reasoning, problem-solving, and collaborative play. Ideal for STEM learning and sensory integration activities.

Storage and Protection Best Practices

Proper storage is crucial for preserving the structural integrity and cleanliness of EPP foam blocks. Exposure to environmental stressors can degrade performance over time, even though the material is highly resilient.

• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or UV light, which may cause gradual discoloration or surface degradation.
• Store away from heat sources such as radiators, heaters, or hot vehicles, as temperatures above 120°C (248°F) can deform the foam.
• Keep blocks in a dry, climate-controlled environment to prevent moisture buildup and dust accumulation.
• Use breathable fabric bins, plastic totes with ventilation, or dedicated shelving units for organized storage.
• Do not compress large sets under heavy objects for extended periods, as this may affect their spring-back properties.
• Label storage containers by set or size to encourage tidy cleanup and facilitate rotation strategies.

Cleaning and Hygiene Guidelines

One of the standout advantages of EPP foam blocks is their ease of cleaning—especially important in homes, daycare centers, and schools where hygiene is paramount.

• For routine cleaning, wipe each block with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust, fingerprints, and food residue.
• Use mild soap and water for deeper cleaning; rinse with a clean damp cloth and allow to air dry completely before storing.
• Non-abrasive disinfectant wipes or sprays (e.g., baby-safe or hospital-grade solutions) can be used when sanitization is required, such as during illness outbreaks.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, bleach, or abrasive scrubbing tools that could damage the foam surface.
• Never submerge EPP blocks in water for extended periods, as moisture may become trapped in seams or textures.
• Allow blocks to dry fully in a well-ventilated area—preferably laid flat—to prevent warping or mold growth.

Pro Tip: Establish a weekly cleaning routine for frequently used sets, especially in shared environments. Rotate cleaning duties with storage rotation to maintain both hygiene and novelty in play.

Periodic Inspection for Safety and Longevity

Even though EPP foam is highly durable, regular inspection ensures continued safety and playability. Over time, wear and tear can occur from frequent handling, dropping, or chewing (in younger children).

• Inspect blocks monthly—or more frequently in high-use settings—for signs of damage such as cuts, punctures, deep scratches, or compressed areas that no longer rebound.
• Check for loose fragments or crumbling edges that could pose a choking hazard.
• Remove and replace any damaged blocks promptly. Most manufacturers offer replacement parts or individual block purchases.
• Pay special attention to connector points or textured surfaces that may collect dirt or degrade faster.
• Document inspection results in a maintenance log if used in educational or childcare facilities.

Rotation of Play Options to Enhance Engagement

To keep children engaged and extend the useful life of EPP foam blocks, implement a rotation system that refreshes the play experience without requiring new purchases.

• Divide larger sets into smaller themed kits (e.g., “Castle Builders,” “City Blocks,” “Rainbow Towers”) and rotate them every 2–4 weeks.
• Introduce new building challenges or blueprints periodically to inspire creativity and advanced construction techniques.
• Combine blocks with other materials like fabric, cardboard, or plush toys to create imaginative play scenes.
• Rearrange existing sets into novel configurations or color patterns to simulate “new” toys.
• Encourage collaborative building projects or storytelling with structures to deepen engagement.
• In classrooms or playrooms, involve children in choosing the next rotation theme to foster ownership and excitement.

Maintenance Task	Recommended Frequency	Tools/Supplies Needed	Key Benefits
Surface Cleaning	Weekly (daily in daycare)	Damp cloth, mild soap, disinfectant wipes	Reduces germs, maintains appearance
Detailed Inspection	Monthly	Checklist, magnifying glass (optional)	Ensures safety, prevents hazards
Deep Cleaning	Every 3–6 months	Soapy water, drying rack	Removes embedded dirt, refreshes sets
Storage Rotation	Bi-weekly to monthly	Labeled bins, inventory list	Sustains interest, reduces clutter
Environmental Check	Quarterly	Thermometer, UV monitor (optional)	Prevents heat/sun damage

Expert Insight: EPP foam blocks represent a sustainable toy option due to their long lifespan and recyclability. When retired, check local recycling programs for #5 polypropylene acceptance. Consider donating gently used sets to schools or charities to extend their educational impact.

Final Recommendations

• Always follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and usage limits.
• Teach children how to handle and store blocks responsibly to promote independence and care.
• Use rotation and themed play to maintain long-term engagement and avoid toy fatigue.
• Combine EPP blocks with other learning tools (books, music, art) for multidisciplinary play.
• Contact the manufacturer if you notice material defects or inconsistencies in quality.

By understanding the unique properties of EPP foam and applying consistent maintenance practices, caregivers and educators can ensure these versatile building blocks remain a safe, hygienic, and stimulating resource for years. Their durability, combined with thoughtful care, makes them a smart investment in creative, active, and developmental play.

Frequently Asked Questions About EPP Foam Building Blocks

Q1: What are EPP foam building blocks made of?

EPP foam building blocks are constructed from expanded polypropylene (EPP), a high-performance thermoplastic foam known for its durability, resilience, and eco-friendly properties. Unlike traditional plastics, EPP is composed of closed-cell foam beads that are expanded using steam, resulting in a lightweight yet strong material. These blocks are specifically engineered for children's toys, featuring smooth, rounded edges and no sharp corners, making them ideal for safe, hands-on play.

• Material Composition: 100% expanded polypropylene—non-toxic, BPA-free, and phthalate-free.
• Manufacturing Process: Beads are expanded up to 50 times their original size and fused under heat and pressure.
• Environmental Impact: Fully recyclable and often made with up to 30% recycled content, depending on the manufacturer.

EPP is widely used in automotive, packaging, and sports safety gear due to its shock-absorbing qualities, which further validates its safety and reliability in children's toys.

Q2: What is the safety of using EPP foam blocks as a toy for toddlers?

EPP foam blocks are among the safest construction toys available for toddlers, combining softness, structural integrity, and non-toxic materials to create a worry-free play environment. Their design prioritizes child safety at every level, making them ideal for children aged 1–5 years.

• Soft and Impact-Resistant: The foam absorbs impacts, reducing injury risk if a block is dropped or thrown.
• No Sharp Edges: All corners and surfaces are rounded and smooth, minimizing abrasion or pinching hazards.
• Lightweight: Easy for small hands to lift, stack, and carry, supporting motor skill development without strain.
• Non-Toxic: Certified safe under international toy safety standards (e.g., ASTM F963, EN71), with no harmful chemicals or off-gassing.
• Hygienic: Resistant to mold, mildew, and bacteria—important for toys frequently handled by young children.

Many pediatric experts and early childhood educators recommend EPP blocks as a developmentally appropriate toy that encourages creativity, balance, and spatial awareness in a secure way.

Q3: Can EPP foam blocks be used for outdoor play?

Yes, EPP foam blocks are exceptionally well-suited for outdoor play due to their inherent weather-resistant properties. Unlike many other foam materials, EPP does not degrade quickly when exposed to moisture, UV light, or temperature fluctuations, making it perfect for backyard adventures, beach trips, or preschool outdoor classrooms.

• Water Resistance: Does not absorb water, so blocks can be used in sand, near pools, or in light rain without damage.
• UV Stability: Resists fading and degradation from sunlight, though prolonged direct exposure may slightly reduce longevity.
• Temperature Tolerance: Performs well in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 130°C (-40°F to 266°F), ideal for all-season use.
• Versatile Play: Great for building outdoor forts, obstacle courses, or imaginative structures like sandcastles with added stability.

After outdoor use, simply wipe off dirt or rinse with water—no special drying required—ensuring quick turnaround for indoor play.

Q4: How to store EPP foam building blocks when not in use?

Proper storage helps maintain the shape, cleanliness, and longevity of EPP foam blocks. While the material is highly durable, protecting it from environmental stressors ensures years of safe and enjoyable use.

• Environment: Store in a dry, cool area away from direct sunlight and extreme heat sources (e.g., radiators, garages in summer).
• Containers: Use breathable cloth bags, mesh bins, or open plastic totes to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
• Avoid Compression: Do not stack heavy objects on top of stored blocks, as prolonged pressure may cause deformation.
• Organization: Consider color- or size-coded bins to help children learn sorting and encourage independent cleanup.
• Off-Season Storage: If storing long-term, clean blocks first and place them in a ventilated container in a climate-controlled space.

Because EPP is naturally dust-repellent and anti-static, minimal maintenance is required—just occasional wiping and proper storage.

Q5: How can EPP foam blocks be cleaned?

Cleaning EPP foam blocks is simple and requires no harsh chemicals, making them easy to maintain in hygienic condition—especially important for toddlers who often touch their mouths during play.

• Daily Cleaning: Wipe surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust, fingerprints, or food residue.
• Deep Cleaning: Use a mild soap solution (e.g., dish soap and water) and a soft sponge. Rinse with a damp cloth and air dry—no submersion needed.
• Disinfecting: For sanitization, use a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or a baby-safe disinfectant spray. Avoid bleach or abrasive cleaners.
• Drying: Always air dry completely before storing to prevent moisture retention.
• Stain Removal: Most marks wipe off easily; permanent markers or crayon can usually be removed with a magic eraser (test on a small area first).

Due to EPP’s closed-cell structure, liquids and dirt do not penetrate the surface, so cleaning is fast and effective. Regular maintenance keeps the blocks looking new and safe for shared environments like daycare centers or classrooms.