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If you’re like most parents, you might have your fair share of concerns about the bath toys your little one shoves into their mouth during bathtime. Maybe you have even seen the telltale signs of dirt and grime—and possibly even mold—when they squirt the toys at the wall of the tub. 

Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways to not only clean your child’s toys, but extend their life and prevent mold. Below, cleaning experts and pediatricians explain the best ways to clean bath toys as well as offer tips for keeping them fresh for as long as possible. 

Make a Bleach Solution

If you suspect your child’s bath toys have mold inside them, and you want to try to salvage them, the most effective cleaning option is using a diluted bleach solution. Just keep in mind that bleach is harsh and can damage toys.

“Bleach solution is effective because it kills bacteria and mold,” says Jonathan Jassey, DO, FAAP, a board-certified pediatrician and founder of Concierge Pediatrics.

A Word of Caution

Bleach is extremely toxic, so you will have to take great care in making sure the solution is strong enough to kill mold, but not so strong that it could pose a risk to your child.1 You also should ensure the toys are rinsed extremely thoroughly before giving them to your child.

For basic cleaning of toys, Kristin DiNicolantonio, MA, senior director of stakeholder communications at American Cleaning Institute, suggests making a solution of ¾ cup of chlorine bleach to one gallon of water. 

“Scrub the toys using this solution and be sure to wear protective gloves and old clothes to prevent bleach damage on your garments,” says DiNicolantonio. “Make sure your space is well-ventilated.2 For hollow toys or toys designed to fill with water, be sure to squeeze out all liquid. Once the toys have been cleaned, leave them wet for five minutes, then rinse the toys in a clean sink and let them air dry.”

Use a Hydrogen Peroxide Spray 

If you are looking for an alternative to bleach or if you want a cleaning method that you can use more frequently, try making a spray with hydrogen peroxide. While it is not as strong as bleach, researchers have found that it will fight against a number of microorganisms. For instance, it is effective in getting rid of viruses, fungi, spores, and bacteria. To use it, simply select a container of 3% hydrogen peroxide and put it in a spray bottle. 

“Hydrogen peroxide is a solid bleach alternative,” says Taylor Riley, a father, cleaning expert, and partner at GermSmart Commercial Cleaning in Brooklyn, New York. “All you need to do is put it in a spray bottle and apply directly to the toys. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes then rinse thoroughly.”

Use the Dishwasher 

Another option for cleaning and disinfecting toys is to use your dishwasher, says Lana Tkachenko, a cleaning expert at Force of Nature. “For hard toys, place them on the top rack of your dishwasher and run a hot water cycle with heat dry. Just make sure the toys are labeled dishwasher-safe first.” 

For soft bath toys, she suggests using a lingerie bag and running them through a gentle cycle with hot water. Let them air dry completely before storing. She says you also can opt for an over-the-counter disinfectant spray. “It’s a simple way to add an extra layer of protection—without introducing harsh chemicals.”

Opt for the Washing Machine

You also can use your washing machine to clean bath toys, says DiNicolantonio.  Just make sure the item is machine washable, then put the toys in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase that is tightly secured at the top. 

“Launder on a delicate cycle using cold water and regular detergent or laundry sanitizer,” she says. “Once the washing cycle is complete, let the items dry on a counter or in the sun until they are fully dried before storing them away.”

Handwash With Soap and Water

For daily cleaning, you can still sterilize your bath toys with soap and water, says Dr. Jassey. Simply fill a disinfected sink, basin, or container with hot water and a few squirts of dish soap.

Karissa Whitman, a mom of two and motherhood blogger at MomAfterBaby.com, says she often uses this method and recommends scrubbing each toy, rinsing it, and letting it air dry. If you submerge the toys in water, you should squeeze out any excess water as well. Also, if you are using extremely hot water, consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from the heat.

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Photo:  Parents/Getty Images

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