Cleaning Bath Toys

Clean Your Children's Bath Toys

Every 4-6 months, I clean my kids' bath toys because of a scummy buildup. After their evening bath, I soak all the toys in a mild solution of bleach water until the next afternoon (the bleach does not fade the toys).

Be sure to squeeze out the toys first (you may be amazed or disgusted at what comes out!), so the clean water can fill them. Sometimes they need a little brushing in the crevices with an old toothbrush. Rinse them in warm water, being sure to squeeze each toy again to remove the bleach water collected inside.

By Kelli from Sentani, Indonesia

Cleaning Bath Toys with Vinegar

Cleaning bath toys with a simple solution of vinegar and water will help get rid of bacteria and mildew. Vinegar is a natural option that is safe to use on your children's toys.

1. Fill a bucket or large bowl with warm water.
2. Add 1/2 cup white vinegar per gallon of water.
3. If the toys have holes in them, squeeze the toy while under the water to get the solution inside. Repeat a few times.
4. Soak the toys for 10 minutes, then gently scrub them with a sponge.
5. Be sure to squeeze out any water inside the toys.
6. Allow them to dry.

Cleaning Bath Toys with Bleach

It is best to prevent mold and mildew before it happens on your kids' bath toys. For toys that have a hole in them, always squeeze them out after bath time. Also, store them outside of the tub in a dry place. If they already have mold or mildew on them try to clean them before you throw them out. Follow these simple steps:

1. First, clean the toys with a mild soap and sponge.
2. Next, combine 3/4 cup chlorine bleach per gallon of warm water.
3. Soak the prewashed toys for five minutes.
4. If they have a hole, make sure to squeeze the toy while submerged to get the solution inside. Repeat a few times.
5. Make sure anyway is squeeze out of the toys.
6. Allow to dry.