When it comes to bathtime, all we want is for it to be straightforward, simple and without tantrums.
This is made all the more possible with bath toys.
But we’ve all been in the position where we fill up the bath, get the kids in, grab the bath toys and realize that you forgot to clean them again!
They are filled with mold and dirt and are completely unusable.
When this happens, my instant reaction is to chuck them out. However, there is another option!
This article will explore some of the great ways that you can clean your bath toys and have them back in the bath with the kids in no time (see also ‘How To Wash Plush Toys‘).
Table of Contents
Why Should You Care About Mold On Bath Toys?
There are many different reasons why you should care about mold on your kids’ bath toys. It is super easy to let mold build up, but you should not leave it there.
Besides it looking gross, the other problem with having mold on your bath toys is the link between mold growth and respiratory problems in children.
Studies have shown that mold growth in the home, including on bath toys, has been linked to tiredness, headaches and breathing problems.
While small amounts of mold are not likely to have extreme adverse effects, you should ensure that you remove mold wherever possible to avoid any of these symptoms present in your child.
I wouldn’t worry too much, but you should try to avoid mold where possible.
How To Clean Mold Off Bath Toys?
So, now comes the gross part! There are a number of ways in which you can get rid of the mold on your bath toys and get them looking brand new.
I’ll run through some of the most effective ways to clean, as well as the more natural ways.
Using Bleach To Clean Mold Off Bath Toys
The most effective way to clean bath toys is the bleaching method. This method will have your toys looking brand new in no time.
Simply scrub the toys using a bleach solution, and the toys will be free from mold and bacteria within seconds.
If you’re like me, the first thought that will come into your mind will be that you don’t want your kids exposed to bleach.
Don’t fret! If you rinse the toys off in clean water after the bleach treatment, there will be hardly any left on the toys.
Your kids won’t be exposed to bleach as there won’t be any remaining on the bath toys.
Method
Let’s have a look at the method for cleaning bath toys using bleach.
- Fill a bucket with a bleach solution. Mix ¾ cups of bleach with 4 liters of water. This can be an approximate mix.
- Next, place the bath toys in the bucket of bleach. It is a good idea to let the solution reach inside the toys so that they are cleaned inside, too.
- Leave the toys in the bleach overnight.
- The next morning, take the toys out of the bleach and scrub off any remaining mold using a brush. Make sure to use gloves at this stage.
- Then, the excess bleach off the bath toys using clean water.
Using Vinegar To Clean Bath Toys
If you don’t like using bleach, vinegar is a great alternative. It is great at killing off mold.
Vinegar also contains some antibacterial properties.
Method
- Mix ½ cup of vinegar with 4 liters of water.
- Place the toys in the solution of vinegar and leave them in the water for an hour.
- Scrub the toys using a brush to remove all of the mold from the toys.
- Rinse the toys with clean water.
Using The Dishwasher To Clean Bath Toys
Cleaning bath toys doesn’t have to be a difficult task, and it can be as simple as running them through the dishwasher.
Simply put them on a hot and quick cycle and you will end up with some sparkly bath toys.
Make sure that the bath toys you want to clean are dishwasher safe.
How To Stop Mold Growing On Bath Toys?
While it is easy to clean the mold off of your kids’ bath toys, it is a better idea to stop the mold from growing in the first place.
Stick to these tips if you’re looking to avoid mold growing on your toys:
Seal Them Up
If water can’t get inside the bath toys, then mold won’t be able to grow in the crevices.
If your toys have holes in them, you should opt for sealing them.
You can do this using a hot glue gun which will prevent any water from getting into the toys.
Store Them Well
If you allow the kids bath toys to sit in moisture for a period of time then they will likely start to develop mold.
Make sure that you dry the toys out before storing them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Clean Bath Toys?
It is recommended that you clean bath toys around once a week.
You should also rinse them after every use and allow them to properly dry before you put them away.
This will mean that the mold won’t grow in the first place.
What Can Mold On Bath Toys Cause?
Mold on your children’s bath toys can cause your child to become unwell. In some cases it can result in diarrhea and vomiting.
In some children, it can cause an allergic reaction which can look like a rash, itchy eyes and coughing.
In most cases, mold on your children’s bath toys won’t cause much harm.
How Often Should I Replace Bath Toys?
If you clean your bath toys regularly, they will still likely need to be replaced fairly often.
If the toys are looking old, discolored, or smelly, it is time to replace them.
Sometimes, the toys have reached the end of their life and need replacing.
