Bath Toys: How to Choose Safe Them and Keep Them Clean and Mold-Free

A safe bath toy is made of non-toxic and easy-to-clean material, has no loose small parts and dries quickly. The biggest hygiene problem is mold: it grows especially on toys that have water left inside. So rinse bath toys after each bath, let them dry completely, and clean them thoroughly once a week.

Why are safety and hygiene in bath toys so important?

Bath toys sit in hot water, are stored wet, and, in the case of small children, often end up in the mouths. That combination of moisture, heat, and soap scum is just what fungi and bacteria like. A toy that looks clean on the outside may have a black coating on the inside.

In addition, the same safety rules apply in the bathroom as with any other toy: no small parts that can come loose, no sharp edges and materials that do not release harmful substances. Since a child should never be left alone in the bathroom, you can also keep an eye on what he puts in his mouth. Do you want to know everything children learn in the bathroom? You can read it in bath toys and your child’s development.

What is the best material for bath toys?

Not all materials get along equally well with water. A summary of the most common types:

material	Advantages	To take into account
Silicone	Soft, non-porous, often withstands boiling water or dishwasher (check with manufacturer)	Attracts dust and lint; choose food-grade silicone
BPA-free plastic (hard)	Lightweight, durable, affordable	It can be scratched and dirt remains on the scratches.
Soft rubber/vinilo with a hole (toys that spew water)	Fun squirt effect	Water stays inside: increased risk of mold
Wood	Natural, pretty	It should dry well; untreated wood can absorb moisture
Terry or foam (bath books, letters)	Soft, fun to stick on the wall	Absorbs water, dries more slowly
metal	–	May rust; better avoid it

In practice, solid toys without openings They are the ones that score the best in hygiene. Silicone is popular because it is non-porous and can be cleaned thoroughly. You can read more about the advantages and disadvantages of this material in why silicone toys are right for your child.

What to look for when buying bath toys?

• CE marking: Toys sold in the EU must comply with the European Toy Safety Directive; The CE marking indicates that the manufacturer declares that the product complies with it. The corresponding safety standard for toys is EN 71.
• Age indication: Toys with “not suitable for children under 36 months” usually contain small parts. For babies and toddlers, choose toys that are too big to swallow.
• in one piece: the fewer seams, screws and loose parts, the fewer corners where dirt and water remain.
• Without holes, or that can be disassembled: Toys that squirt water are fun, but in that case choose one that you can open to clean the inside.
• No strong chemical smell: A pungent smell when unpacking is not a good sign.
• Durability: A toy that lasts a long time does not have to be replaced so often. It’s better for the environment and often indicates a higher quality material as well.

How do you clean bath toys?

A fixed routine avoids most problems. This is how you do it:

After each bath
1. Rinse the toys with clean water to remove any soap and shampoo residue.
2. Squeeze toys that squirt water completely.
3. Leave everything separate to dry, for example in an open net or in a basket with holes. A closed box retains moisture.

once a week
1. Prepare a mixture of more or less equal parts of white vinegar and warm water.
2. Let the toys soak for ten minutes. Fill the water-squirting toys with the mixture and squeeze them several times.
3. Scrub the seams and corners with a soft brush or an old toothbrush.
4. Rinse everything well with clean water and let it dry completely.

A gentle dish soap with warm water also works. Silicone and hard plastic can often go in the dishwasher or boil briefly, but it depends on the product: always follow the manufacturer’s directions. Do not use aggressive cleaning products; They can damage the material and leave remains that your child ends up ingesting.

Bath books and foam toys Dry them with a towel after bathing and leave them open in a ventilated place. Dry the wood immediately and do not store it in a damp basket in the bathroom.

How to avoid mold on bath toys?

Mold appears when the toy becomes wet. The most important measures:

• Let the toys dry completely before storing them, preferably out of the humid environment of the bathroom.
• Keep them ventilated: A hanging net, open basket, or wall shelf works better than a closed box.
• Limit toys with holes. Some water always remains in them. A known solution is to cover the hole with a drop of hot glue; The toy will no longer leak water, but will remain clean. Only do this with a new, dry toy.
• Replace old toys with cracks or scratches. The dirt no longer comes out from there.
• Limit the quantity. A few good toys are easier to keep clean than a full basket. This fits with the idea of minimalist game.

When should you throw away a bath toy?

Do you have doubts? Throw away a toy if:

• you see black or green spots that appear again after cleaning it;
• When you squeeze it, dark pieces or cloudy water come out;
• the toy smells musty, even after drying;
• the material cracks, crumbles or becomes sticky;
• It has loose pieces that your child could swallow.

If you smell mold but don’t see it, the toy may already be affected on the inside. In toys that spray water you can check this by opening one with scissors.

Playing safely in the bathroom: the basic rules

Clean toys are one thing; A safe bathroom goes further. Never leave alone a baby or a small child in the bathroom, not even a moment to grab a towel. Prepare the toys and everything you need before starting. After the bath, remove all toys from the water and empty the bathtub immediately. You will find practical tips to make bath time enjoyable in how to make your baby’s bath time fun.

In addition, playing together in the bathroom is a precious time to talk with your child, make up stories and name what you see. This way you combine safety and fun.

Toys of this item

• bathing boats
• waterproof bath book
• bath animals, set of 4

Frequently asked questions

How often should bath toys be cleaned?

Rinse bath toys after each bath and let them dry well. Also, clean them thoroughly once a week with water and vinegar or warm water and a mild dish soap. If your child puts toys in his mouth a lot, you can do it more often.

Is mold on bath toys dangerous?

Mold should not be on toys that your child puts in his mouth. If you see mold that won’t go away, throw the toy away. If you are concerned about possible symptoms in your child, consult your pediatrician.

Can bath toys be washed in the dishwasher?

It depends on the material and the product. Silicone and hard plastic are usually dishwasher safe, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Bath books, foam and wood should not go in the dishwasher.

How do you remove mold from a rubber duck?

Fill the duck with water and vinegar, let it sit for a while and squeeze it vigorously several times. If dark pieces continue to appear afterward, the mold is too deep and it is better to replace it. Prevent it from happening again by covering the hole or choosing toys without an opening.

What bath toys are the most hygienic?

Solid toys without holes and made of a non-porous material, such as silicone or hard plastic, are the easiest to keep clean. They do not let water in and dry quickly. Toys that squirt water are only hygienic if they can be opened to clean the inside.