Splash, squirt, giggle, repeat!
Bath time, like feeding time, should be fun right? But here's the not-so-fun truth: those adorable rubber duckies and floating friends your baby loves might be hiding a dirty secret.
Notice your toys looking a bit grimy? Spotted some suspicious black spots of mold, or caught a whiff of something musty? That's your cue to take action.
Knowing how to clean baby bath toys isn't just another chore to add to your list. It's essential for keeping your little one's favorite bath buddies safe and hygienic.
Just like sanitizing baby bottles, cleaning bath toys is easier than you might realize. And in this simple article, we’ll share some tips, advice, and guidance on exactly how.
Why Your Bath Toys Need More Than a Splash
Ever wondered what's really living inside that squeezable rubber ducky? The best way to clean bath toys starts with understanding what you’re up against.
A dark, damp environment creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria in your bathroom (especially in toys that trap water inside).
Think about it. Every splash creates tiny water droplets that settle everywhere and require constant cleanup.
When these toys sit in standing water or don't dry properly, they become prime real estate for unwanted guests. From simple mildew to mold that might require professional help, these uninvited visitors can turn innocent playtime into a health concern.
That's why knowing how to sanitize bath toys properly isn't just about a quick rinse. It's equally about creating a safe space for your little one's aquatic adventures.
How Do You Clean and Sanitize Baby Toys?
From natural solutions to deep sanitizing techniques, there are approaches for how to clean bath toys that tackle everything from surface grime to stubborn mold. Each of the below methods for cleaning bath toys serves a different purpose, so choose based on how dirty your toys are and how much time you have.
Use Vinegar
Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a large bowl. This natural solution is perfect for how to clean kids' bath toys without harsh chemicals.
Soak toys for 1 hour, scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly. For toys with holes, squeeze them underwater to flush out the cleaning solution.
After cleaning, dry them completely on a clean surface. Our Large Bath Stone Mat is ideal for these kinds of situations and can help prevent mold from returning or developing.
The Steam Solution
When you need to disinfect bath toys, steam can be your secret weapon - especially if you’re wondering how to clean bath toys with mold inside. Hold toys about 6 inches from the steam source for 30 seconds per side.
The high-temperature steam effectively sanitizes while loosening buildup. After steaming, wipe clean with a microfiber cloth and dry thoroughly on something like our Over the Sink Dish Pad.
Dishwashing to the Rescue
For a hands-off approach for how to clean baby bath toys, a dishwasher is the answer! Place smaller toys in a mesh bag on the top rack, and run them through a hot water cycle without detergent.
Just like you would a baby bottle drying rack, arrange them carefully to allow proper water drainage. Note: Skip this method for toys with holes or squeeze functions.
The Boiling Method
For toys needing deep sanitizing, boiling works wonders. Bring water to a rolling boil, add toys, and let them bubble for 5-10 minutes.
Remove with tongs and place on something like our Dorai Large Dish Pad. This ensures proper air circulation for complete drying.
Natural Alternatives
For gentle yet effective cleaning, mix 1/4 cup baking soda with warm water to create a paste. Scrub toys with this mixture and pay special attention to moldy spots.
Want another natural option for how to clean bath toys? Add 10 drops of tea tree oil to warm water for its natural antimicrobial properties. These methods are perfect for families focusing on baby feeding essentials and natural cleaning solutions.
Can You Clean Bath Toys in a Washing Machine?
While tossing bath toys in with regular laundry might seem like a clever cleaning hack, it's not the best solution for most water-based toys.
Sure, soft fabric can handle a gentle cycle. But if you’re looking into how to disinfect bath toys more effectively, it usually requires a more targeted approach.
Why skip the spin cycle? Those vigorous washing motions can damage water-tight seals and create new hiding spots for mold and bacteria.
For the best way to clean bath toys, stick to our tried-and-true methods above. When it comes to how to clean baby bath toys, these approaches can give you more control and better results.
How to Prevent Mold in Baby Bath Toys?
Besides knowing how to clean baby bath toys properly, prevention is your best defense against grimy playthings. After each use, squeeze out excess water and let toys drain completely.
Aim for thorough air circulation. Overcrowded storage leads to moisture buildup and potential mold growth.
Check toys weekly for early warning signs. Funky smells, sticky surfaces, or visible dark spots inside squeeze holes are red flags.
Found mold that won't budge after cleaning bath toys? It's time for retirement. When water-squirting toys become cloudy inside or rubber toys turn brittle, they've reached the end of their bath time career.
Maintain Squeaky Clean Success for the Long Haul
From vinegar victories to steam solutions, you're now equipped with everything you need to know about how to clean bath toys. Remember that regular cleaning, thorough drying, and proper storage are your best defenses against mold and bacteria.
Beyond your baby’s toys, keep all your bathroom essentials fresh and dry with Dorai's innovative quick-drying essentials. Shop our collection of sustainable, diatomaceous products that make it effortless to maintain your home.