Question:
Any tips on how to get rid of mold on soft toys? We’ve had a really wet summer here in Australia, and the toys aren’t faring well. I have tried Milton disinfectant (as suggested by other blogs) but with no joy.
Answer:
I came across this tip in my book 1001 Practical Household Uses for Vinegar and I thought it would be the perfect answer to this question!
Here’s what you’ll need:
* Mix together 3 TBSP white vinegar, 1 tsp borax and 2 cups of hot water.
* Pour the mixture into an empty spray bottle and shake it gently to mix it well.
* Spray the solution onto the moldy area and allow it to soak. For tough stains use a toothbrush and gently scrub the affected area.
* After letting the toy soak put it in the washing machine and run it through a normal cycle. If it’s an old mold stain, or a really tough stain you might have to repeat this process.
Now your toys will be mold-free and ready for lots of snuggles with the kids!
This is a great blog post. I am always so weary of my niece’s toys. You really never know where they’ve been.
Hoping to try this on some things that were left in our wooden playhouse over a wet winter. Do you think it will work with borax substitutes? we can’t get borax in the UK
I HAVE SOME PLastic toys that has mildew on them HOW DO I GET THEM CLEAN..
Hi, Diana! This is Bethany, Anna’s assistant. Anna has written a great post about how to get rid of mildew here: https://askannamoseley.com/2013/05/green-cleaning-cleaning-with-hydrogen-peroxide/ . Her post focuses on the bathroom, but you can try using the same method of cleaning on the plastic toys as well. Good luck!
Hi,
Can I clean old (50+ yrs old) wooden toys with hydrogen peroxide too? Will it be too strong and damage the wooden surface?
Thanks.
Mike
I would make sure it’s diluted with water and then try it, first, in an inconspicuous area. I don’t think it will damage it but you never know.
What if the toy is too large to fit into the washer? For like an activity center for an infant.
I would try spot cleaning it with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.