As parents, we do our best to keep our homes clean for our family’s health and safety. It is part of being a parent, the seemingly never-ending chore of cleaning house. However, we are human, and some things are overlooked. Our parenting life is hectic, and we just don’t think of some things (yes, I am going to add another chore to your list). One of those things is right in your bathroom. You see them every night as your child plays and splashes in the bathtub getting squeaky clean. Nevertheless her bath toys won’t stay clean for too long after bath time.
We assume they are clean, because they are doused in water and soap everyday. Soap and water cleans us and most things, but why not bath toys? I always assumed they were clean and safe too. It’s just not one of those things we think could be dirty. But soap and water doesn’t always equal clean.
The soap left on the toys after bath time can quickly turn into bacteria. Just think of the stuff you clean off of your shower walls and in your tub. That gunk grows because of soap. The same thing happens with your child’s play toys. Some of those bacteria are known to cause staph infections, respiratory and intestinal illnesses. That doesn’t include the mold and mildew that could be in your kid’s mouth next time it’s time to hop in the tub. The bacteria can also grow inside of any of the various toys, such as rubber ones that tend to tear easily. Bacteria can easily creep inside and cultivate.
To avoid having germs invade your kid’s bath toys, we should clean them all at least once a week. You can throw them in the dishwasher, or simply scrub them with soap and water. Rinse and dry well. This will help prevent the bacteria from growing and keep your kid’s bath toys truly clean! You can and should also periodically replace old toys with new ones. A good timeline is approximately 3-6 months, depending on the toy, and the usage of the toy.
Now that you know, you are getting those toys out to clean them aren’t you? I know I did when I found out.
Stay safe!