This summer, you and your loved ones will be spending plenty of time in your backyard swimming pool. Whether it’s an inner tube, squirt gun, or foam lounger, clean the toys you use in and around the water. Even the most kid-friendly toys deserve a thorough cleaning after sitting outside for days in the hot sun, exposed to dirt, pollen, and harsh pool chemicals, Here’s how to sanitize your kids’ favorite playthings this season.

How to Clean Swimming Pool Toys After Use

1. Vinegar

Use this household solution for a natural clean that’ll eradicate mold and mildew spores. In a bucket, mix two parts warm tap water with one part white vinegar. The acid content in the vinegar will dissolve dirt, grime, and contaminants. Drop the toys in the solution to activate it. Let them sit for about 10 to 15 minutes, then use a spare toothbrush to remove dirt from cracks and crevices. Use a towel to dry off the toy and squeeze out any water inside of it.

2. Baking Soda

This substance is excellent for dissolving the residue that chlorinated water can leave behind. If you have this household product in the back of your fridge, add a quarter cup to a quart of warm water. If the toys are small enough, soak them in the solution, and wipe larger inflatables with a hand towel that’s covered in the mixture.

3. Deep Cleaning

If you found a plastic pool toy that was stuck in the filter or behind the bushes for weeks, it might require a more drastic sanitizing process. In this case, mix two tablespoons of chlorine bleach and one gallon of clean water in a bucket or large container. Submerge the swimming pool toys and allow them to soak for at least two minutes. Rinse them in clean water, and let them air dry in a cool place. While this method works well for moldy plastic toys, it’s best to throw out foam ones at the first sign of mold as the substance can thrive inside unseen foam cavities.

Once your toys are clean, continue the effort by cleaning your swimming pool. For fast, efficient, and affordable pool cleaning, contact Pool Pro n Kihei, HI. Since 1985, these professionals have helped Maui homeowners maintain clean swimming waters by using gentle chemicals, regulating chlorine levels, and supplying pool testing equipment. Learn more about their pool maintenance services online, or call (808) 879-3294 to schedule a cleaning appointment.