Introduction
Tired of slipping on rubber ducks or fishing bath toys out of the tub? This guide will show you exactly how to store bath toys safely, so your bathroom stays tidy and your kids stay healthy. Bath toys are fun—but if they’re not dried and stored properly, they can quickly become breeding grounds for mold and mildew. With the right system, you can keep playtime fun and cleanup hassle-free.
Why Safe Bath Toy Storage Matters
Bath toys often sit in wet, humid conditions—ideal for mold and bacteria to grow. If toys aren’t drained and dried correctly, they can collect water inside, making them unsafe for kids to use. Moldy toys can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and unpleasant odors.
Proper storage ensures:
- Drying between uses to prevent mold buildup
- Organized spaces to reduce bathroom clutter
- Quick access so you’re not constantly bending over or reaching into messy bins
- Longer toy life by preventing damage and deterioration
Safe bath toy storage is essential for both hygiene and convenience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Bath Toys Safely
1. Declutter and Clean Existing Toys
Start with a full cleanup:
- Remove all bath toys from the tub, basket, or storage bin.
- Throw away broken, moldy, or unused toys.
- Soak remaining toys in a solution of white vinegar and warm water (1:1 ratio) for 30 minutes.
- Scrub toys with a soft brush if needed and let them air dry fully.
Tip: Squeeze out water from squirting toys and check inside with a flashlight—if there’s mold, it’s time to toss.
2. Choose the Right Storage System
Not all storage methods are equal. Look for something that:
- Allows air circulation to help toys dry
- Drains water rather than trapping it
- Mounts or hangs up to keep toys off the floor
Here are your best options:
Mesh Bags
- Hang on a wall or shower hook
- Great airflow for fast drying
- Easy for kids to access and put toys away
Drain Baskets or Caddies
- Sit on the edge of the tub or mount to the wall
- Have drainage holes to prevent water buildup
- Come in kid-friendly designs for fun cleanup
Suction Cup Organizers
- Stick to tiled walls or glass
- Work well for small collections
- Choose models with strong suction and drainage holes
Note: Avoid solid plastic bins without drainage holes—they trap water and breed mold.
3. Mount or Place the Storage Unit
Install your storage option in a spot that’s:
- Easy for kids to reach (encourages cleanup)
- Out of the way of water flow (prevents constant soaking)
- High enough to allow drainage and airflow
For hanging systems: Use adhesive hooks or suction cups on clean, dry tiles.
For edge baskets: Ensure they don’t tip or slide easily—look for weighted or suction base designs.
4. Establish a Post-Bath Routine
To keep toys in good condition, build a quick routine:
- After bath time, rinse toys with clean water
- Squeeze or shake out excess water
- Place toys immediately into the drying system
- Leave bathroom fan on or open a window for ventilation
Tip: Rotate toys weekly so others dry completely and none stay wet for long periods.
5. Disinfect Monthly
Even with good storage, toys need regular disinfecting:
- Soak toys monthly in a bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach to 1 gallon of water) for 5–10 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry
- Alternatively, some toys are top-rack dishwasher safe—check the label
Warning: Never let children play with toys right after bleach cleaning—always rinse and dry first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Leaving toys in the tub
Solution: Always remove toys after each bath. Sitting in water leads to mold, mildew, and faster breakdown.
Mistake 2: Using closed bins without drainage
Solution: Use breathable, draining storage options like mesh or slotted containers.
Mistake 3: Ignoring toy interiors
Solution: Squeeze out all water from squirting toys and discard if they show signs of mold inside.
Mistake 4: Not cleaning storage units
Solution: Wash the storage bag, basket, or caddy regularly. These can also collect moisture and grime.
Mistake 5: Overloading the storage
Solution: Limit the number of toys and rotate weekly to allow everything to dry thoroughly.
Extra Tips & Bathroom Hacks
- Use labeled mesh bags to separate toys by type or child—this encourages responsibility and helps organization.
- Attach a plastic hook near the tub for easy access and cleanup after bath time.
- Cut a small hole in the bottom of squirting toys to help them dry faster and prevent water from being trapped.
- Want more bathroom organization help? Check out our guide on how to organize a bathroom for kids.
Conclusion
Storing bath toys safely doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right drying and organizing setup, you can prevent mold, protect your kids, and keep your bathroom tidy. Choose a breathable storage system, build a simple routine, and clean toys regularly to keep bath time both fun and hygienic.
🧸 Bookmark this guide and say goodbye to soggy, moldy bath toys—and hello to a cleaner, safer bathroom.