Mum-Approved: Simple Hacks for Bath Toy Cleaning

OK It's Time to Know What's Really Lurking in Those Bath Toys...

Bath time is a magical moment for kids, filled with splashing, laughter, and those beloved bath toys. It’s a time when little imaginations run wild, transforming the tub into an ocean, a pirate ship, or a mermaid’s lagoon.

But did you know these toys could be hiding a dirty secret inside?

Leftover water between plays can lead to algae and mould growth, turning those cheerful companions into potential health hazards. Yikes!

We’re here to tackle that build-up with family-safe cleaners because let’s face it, kids being kids, they love to drink from these toys as part of their play!

We know Mum mode is always on, and we’re arming you with the best tips to keep bath time both fun and safe.

So grab your cleaning supplies (Oxygen Bleach and Castile Soap), activate Mum mode, and let’s turn those yucky bath toys back into the clean, fun companions they’re meant to be.

How to Clean your Bath Toys without Harsh Chemicals

1. Initial Toy Scrub:

Start by giving the toys and non-slip mat a quick scrub with a brush and soapy water. Partly fill your bucket or batch with warm water and add a few tablespoons of Figgy & Co Home Cleaning Castile Soap. Scrub the toys and mat thoroughly to remove surface grime. Think of this as your warm-up exercise – a little arm workout to start the day!

2. Deep Soak with Oxi active Green Bleach:

In a bucket of hot water, add 1/2 cup of Oxygen Bleach and mix until dissolved. Add the toys to the solution. Squeeze and suck up the cleaning solution to fill them up. Let them soak for 30 minutes initially, then repeat the squeeze and soak process, leaving them in the solution for at least 2 hours or overnight. When dissolved in warm water Oxygen bleach release Hydrogen peroxide which is a non-tox stain buster and sanitizer.

3. Rinse the grime from your bath toys:

Use an old toothbrush to remove any remaining debris. Squeeze and rinse with fresh water to clean out the inside. This might be the fun part for the kids but be prepared for some alarming results! Get ready to channel your inner detective as you uncover the mysteries inside those toys.

4. Silicone Non-Slip Mat Cleaning:

If your non-slip bathmat needs extra attention after the initial scrub, use the soaking method. Partly fill the bath just over the mat and add the oxygen bleach, or submerge it in a bucket. Allow the oxygen bleach time to work its magic.

Note on Mould & Silicone Toys and Mats

If mould has penetrated the silicone, it might be impossible to clean completely, as mould can send roots deep into the material. In such cases, it’s a decision between living with it or replacing the item. Sometimes, even superheroes have to admit defeat and replace a trusty sidekick!

Tips to Prevent Mould and Bacteria in Bath Toys

• Rinse Toys After Each Bath: Rinse toys with clean water to remove any left over body products and residues.
• Dry Thoroughly: Squeeze out any water and allow the toys to dry completely between uses. 
• Seal the Holes: For squeeze toys, consider using a glue gun to seal the holes. This prevents water from getting inside, which is a major cause of mould growth. It's a simple trick that can save a lot of hassle down the line!
• Store Properly: Store bath toys in a mesh bag or a well-ventilated area to help them dry properly. This prevents mould and mildew from setting up shop on your kids' favourite toys.

Choosing the Right Bath Toys

When it comes to bath toys, some materials are just easier to keep clean than others. Look for toys made from hard plastic as they are less likely to harbour mould. Toys without holes or with removable parts are also easier to clean thoroughly, helping you keep bath time safe and fun without all the fuss.

Most kids love simple jugs for pouring and spoons for mixing potions when it comes to bath time fun—why not make the most of dishwasher proof items that double as your bath play item. Now you can save time and energy and make the most of play toys that can go through a dishwasher every few weeks to stay clean.

How Often Should You Clean Your Bath Toys?

Keeping a regular cleaning schedule can make a big difference in maintaining clean bath toys. Here's a simple routine to follow:

• After Every Bath: Rinse toys with clean water and shake out as much water as possible.
• Weekly: Clean toys with soap and water, ensuring they dry fully.
• Monthly: Perform a deep clean using the methods outlined above to keep toys fresh and free from mould.

By following these steps, you can keep your bath toys clean, safe, and enjoyable for your children. Happy Cleaning!

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