Quick answer
To prevent mold and extend the life of floating bath toys, rinse and squeeze out water after each bath, then air dry fully. Deep clean monthly with a vinegar soak or mild bleach solution.
Why floating bath toys need special care
Floating bath toys are designed to bob, spin, and drift through the water, but their hollow shapes and small openings can trap moisture inside. Over time, trapped water can lead to mold or mildew, which is both unsanitary and can shorten the toy's life. Silicone toys, like those from Trixie, are naturally more resistant to mold than plastic, but they still need proper drying to stay fresh.
Step-by-step cleaning routine
- 1. Rinse and squeeze after every bath: After bath time, rinse each toy with clean water to remove soap residue and body oils. Gently squeeze silicone toys to force out any water trapped inside. For open-shaped toys like the Stackable Boats or the Floating Flower, shake off excess water. Common mistake: Forgetting to squeeze out water from enclosed toys can lead to mold growth inside.
- 2. Air dry completely before storing: Place toys in a well-ventilated area, ideally on a drying rack or towel, with openings facing down. Allow them to dry completely for several hours or overnight. Avoid storing them in a closed bin or damp bathroom cabinet while still wet. Common mistake: Storing damp toys in a closed container creates a humid environment that encourages mold.
- 3. Deep clean monthly with a vinegar soak: Once a month, fill a basin with equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Submerge the toys for 15-20 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush to remove any buildup. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and air dry completely. Common mistake: Using bleach on silicone toys can damage the material; stick to vinegar or a mild soap solution.
- 4. Inspect regularly for mold or damage: Check toys weekly for any signs of black or green mold, especially inside enclosed areas. If you spot mold, discard the toy if it cannot be fully cleaned. Silicone toys are easier to inspect because they can be squeezed open. Common mistake: Trying to clean a heavily moldy toy may not remove all spores; replacement is safer for your child.
Products mentioned in this guide
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Bath toy submarine - Mr. Fox: Rounded edges and soft-touch silicone make it a pleasure to hold and a firm favourite with water-loving little ones. The silicone material is less porous than plastic, making it easier to dry and less prone to mold growth.
Bath toy submarine - Mr. Fox
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Bath toy floating flower - Mrs. Cat: Stack the flower, scoop and pour water, or simply watch it drift across the bath. Its open design allows water to drain more freely, reducing the chance of moisture getting trapped inside.
Bath toy floating flower - Mrs. Cat
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Stackable boats - 3pcs: They also double up as pouring cups - perfect for rinsing baby's hair. The open cup shape makes them easy to rinse and dry thoroughly, unlike fully enclosed toys.
