Mold can grow anywhere in a moist environment in your home, so it is problematic in high humidity spaces like bathrooms. In fact, it could grow on any bathroom surface. While you may most commonly think about it growing on shower tile, it can also grow on and in your kids’ bath toys. Mold is only one concern.
For example, bacteria can also make a home on the bath toys that your kids play with every day. Learn how to clean bath toys.
Risks of Unclean Bath Toys
Because bath toys are used in clean, soapy water, it is easy to assume that they will remain clean. However, mold and bacteria are problematic.
These unhealthy particles will enter the bathroom each time your kids bathe. They come in contact with your kids’ skin and can remain after they get out of the bath. Kids often put dirty bath toys in their mouths as well. These germs can cause mild to serious illnesses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Bath Toys
The good news is that you can clean bath toys regularly to eliminate mold and bacteria. How do you clean different types of toys?
Washing Plastic Bath Toys
Plastic bath toys can be cleaned with bleach or vinegar. Use a 1:10 ratio of bleach to water or a 1:1 ratio of vinegar and water.
Fill a large tub with your cleaning solution. Squeeze all of the water out of the toys. Then, immerse them in your cleaning solution for 30 minutes or longer. Rinse the toys thoroughly. Let them air dry before returning them to their storage space.
Removing Mold From Hollow Toys
Mold can grow inside hollow toys. To remove the mold, squeeze all of the water out of the toys. When the toys are immersed in the cleaning solution, squeeze them multiple times.
Allow the solution to enter and leave the hollow space each time. Then, fill the toys again, and let them sit for an hour. You can then squeeze the cleaning solution out. Use clean water to rinse out the interior of the toys, and squeeze it out. Then, let the toys air dry.
Scrubbing Toys with Stubborn Dirt
If the bath toys are stained or still have visible dirt after completing these steps, make a baking soda paste using baking soda and water.
Apply the paste to the dirty areas. Use a small, soft brush, such as a toothbrush, to scrub the toys. Then, rinse and dry the toys.
Cleaning Special Bath Toys
While these steps work well for most bath toys, your child may have a few toys that require special care.
Bath Toys with Batteries
Start by removing the batteries. Rather than immersing the toys in the cleaning solution, use a microfiber cloth that is moistened with the cleaning solution. Wring out the excess moisture so that the cloth is damp rather than soaking and dripping.
Wipe the outer surfaces of the toy with the cloth. An alternative is to use a cleaning wipe that has bleach. Use a second cloth that is dampened with fresh water to wipe off the cleaning solution.
Rubber Duckies or Plush Bath Toys
Rubber duckies can generally be cleaned the same way you clean other plastic or rubber bath toys.
For plush toys, you may be able to wash them in the washing machine. Read the care instructions before doing so. Tumble dry them using the low or no heat setting. An alternative is to boil them in a pot of water for several minutes. After removing them from the heat. Wring the water out. Then, let them air dry completely in sunlight.
Preventing Mold and Bacteria Growth
You cannot entirely prevent mold and bacteria growth on bath toys, but you can dramatically reduce the prevalence of these unhealthy particles. After each bath, rinse and dry the toys.
Squeeze all water out of the hollow toys. Place them on a towel on the counter to air dry. You can also turn on the ventilation fan to lower humidity quickly in the bathroom. You will still need to deep clean the toys on a weekly basis.
When to Replace Bath Toys
Bath toys should be replaced when they are worn or excessively dirty. You might notice that the water draining or squirting from the interior of the toys is still dirty after you wash them. Another sign is discolored toys. Keep in mind that mold can be difficult to remove from toys that are made out of foam or water.
In addition, some toys with many holes are difficult to clean. These toys are prone to mold and bacteria growth. If you notice a musty, unpleasant smell coming from them or notice small pieces of mold in the water, you should replace the toys immediately.
Bath toys are only some of the many areas of your home where mold and other germs can thrive. With our affordable cleaning services in Boston, we make it easy to keep your home clean and healthy. Contact Tidyhere today to schedule your first cleaning service.
