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!
Meleny says
This is a great blog post. I am always so weary of my niece’s toys. You really never know where they’ve been.
Rache says
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
diana hamilton says
I HAVE SOME PLastic toys that has mildew on them HOW DO I GET THEM CLEAN..
Bethany Davis says
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!
Michael Wong says
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
Anna says
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.
Katelyn says
What if the toy is too large to fit into the washer? For like an activity center for an infant.
Anna says
I would try spot cleaning it with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.