How to Clean Kids' Bath Toys

Clean bath toys with vinegar.

Many children hate the bathing experience, and an effective way to ease them into the bathing process is with bath toys. These toys are designed specially for use in the bathtub, most floating and made to withstand years of use. Since the toys are constantly in contact with dirty bath water, it is important to clean the toys every few weeks, or as needed to remove soil and bacteria.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Water
• Dishwasher or sink

Instructions

Using the Dishwasher

1. Squeeze out any excess water that is standing inside the bath toys.

2. Place all of the bath toys on the top tray of your dishwasher. Fill the detergent tray with one part vinegar and three parts hot water.

3. Turn on the dishwasher, and let it run a short wash cycle.

4. Rinse the toys with hot water, and allow them to air dry fully.

Cleaning in the Sink

1. Squeeze out all excess water in the toys.

2. Fill the sink with one part vinegar and three parts water, using enough fluid to submerge the bath toys.

3. Place all of the toys in the vinegar water, and let soak for five minutes.

4. Squeeze the toys to pull water into the holes, then squeeze again to push the water back out of the toys. Repeat this with all of the toys as they soak.

5. Drain the sink, rinse the toys with hot water and allow them to air dry.

References

• Health Guidance: Clean Bath Toys