Bath toys often fill with water and sit in the humid bathroom in between uses. In time, they may become dirty and slimy with soap scum and mildew. A vinegar and water mixture can remove these substances and help keep your bath toys clean. If your child has recently had a virus or bacterial infection, you may wish to disinfect his bath toys with a bleach solution before allowing him to play with them in the bath tub again.
Vinegar and Water
Step 1
Fill a bowl or other large container with warm water, and add about one half cup white vinegar, suggests domestic diva Martha Stewart.
Step 2
Let the toys soak for about 10 minutes to allow the acid in the vinegar to remove built-up soap scum and dirt.
Step 3
Scrub the toys with a soft scrub brush or sponge. This will remove the loosened dirt and mildew.
Step 4
Rinse the toys with clear water and shake off as much water as possible. Allow them to dry in a drainer or on a towel.
Clorox and Water
Step 1
Put on protective gloves to protect your hands from the bleach, suggests the Michigan Department of Community Health. If desired, put on a mask and goggles to protect your face.
Step 2
Wash the bath toys in warm water and soap to remove any dirt and soap scum. The Hennepin County Human Services and Public Health Department states that bleach will not work as a disinfectant if dirt or body fluids are present. Rinse well with clear water.
Step 3
Fill a bucket with a gallon of warm water, and add one tablespoon of Clorox bleach. Soak the toys for two minutes, then remove. Shake off or squeeze out as much water as possible, then allow to dry in a drainer or on a towel. Do not rinse the bleach solution off, recommends the Hennepin County Human Services and Public Health Department.
Things You'll Need
- Bucket or bowl
- Vinegar or bleach
- Drainer or old towel
- Rubber gloves
- Mask and goggles (optional)
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