The short answer
Sort Toys by Material
Begin by separating toys into groups: hard plastic, soft fabric, wooden, and battery-operated. This matters because each material needs a different cleaning method. Hard plastic and silicone are the easiest to sanitize. Soft toys absorb water and need extra care to prevent mold from growing inside.
Check each toy for damage. If a toy has cracks, tears, or a musty smell, it may be beyond saving. Mold can hide in tiny spaces, so if you see any signs of mold, set that toy aside. For battery-operated toys, remove batteries and inspect the compartment. If water got inside, the toy is likely not safe to keep.
- Hard plastic and silicone toys
- Soft fabric and stuffed animals
- Wooden toys and puzzles
- Battery-operated or electronic toys
Clean Hard Plastic Toys
For hard plastic toys, first rinse off any mud or debris with clean water. Then wash each toy with warm water and dish soap, using a scrub brush to reach grooves and crevices. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap. After washing, you can disinfect with a bleach solution.
Mix one tablespoon of liquid bleach with one gallon of water. Submerge the toys for at least two minutes. Rinse them again with clean water and let them air dry completely. Never use hot water with bleach, as it can damage the plastic. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear rubber gloves.
For wooden toys, bleach can damage the finish. Instead, wipe them with a cloth dampened with soapy water, then rinse with a clean damp cloth. Dry them quickly and watch for warping or cracking. If a wooden toy feels soft or spongy, discard it.
Wash Soft Fabric Toys
Soft toys like stuffed animals and fabric dolls can trap floodwater and bacteria. Most can be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle with warm water and regular detergent. Use an extra rinse cycle to make sure all soap is removed. Check the care label first, as some toys are hand-wash only.
After washing, dry them thoroughly. Use a dryer on low heat, or air dry them in the sun. The key is to make sure they are completely dry inside, because moisture leads to mold. If a stuffed toy has a music box or electronic parts, remove it if possible, or consider discarding the toy.
For toys that can't be machine washed, you can spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then use a disinfectant spray safe for fabrics. Let them air dry completely. If you notice any mold spots, throw the toy away, as cleaning may not remove all the spores.
Handle Electronics and Batteries
Battery-operated toys are tricky after a flood. Water can damage circuits and create a shock hazard. Remove the batteries immediately and dry the battery compartment with a clean cloth. Do not try to turn the toy on until it is completely dry, which may take several days.
If the toy was submerged, the internal electronics are likely ruined. It is safer to discard it. For toys with removable parts, clean the plastic casing separately with soapy water and a mild disinfectant. Never use bleach on electronics, as it can corrode contacts and damage the toy.
Dry and Store Toys Properly
After cleaning, drying is just as important as washing. Moisture left behind can lead to mold and mildew. Lay toys out on a clean towel or drying rack in a sunny, well-ventilated area. For stuffed toys, you can use a fan to speed up drying. Make sure every part is dry before storing them.
Once toys are dry, store them in a clean, dry place. Avoid cardboard boxes, as they can absorb moisture. Use plastic bins with tight lids. In damp climates, extra care is needed to keep stored toys dry. Check on them occasionally for any signs of dampness.
If you have a large number of toys or the flood affected a whole playroom, the pros can help with flood damage cleanup. They have the equipment to dry and sanitize large areas. You can find related services for structural drying and dehumidification on this site.
- Dry toys in sunlight if possible
- Use a fan to speed up drying
- Store in airtight plastic bins
- Check stored toys for dampness
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Can I use vinegar to sanitize toys?
Vinegar is not strong enough to kill all bacteria and mold spores. Use a bleach solution for hard plastic toys, as described above. For soft toys, washing with detergent and hot water is more effective. Vinegar may leave a smell and isn't a reliable disinfectant.
What if a toy has mold inside?
If you can see mold on a soft toy, it's wise to throw it away. Mold can grow deep inside the stuffing where you can't reach it. For hard plastic toys, mold on the surface can be cleaned with bleach. If a toy has a musty smell after cleaning, discard it.
How do I clean toys with stickers or decals?
Stickers and decals may be ruined by soaking and scrubbing. Try to remove them before cleaning, or accept that they may peel off. Clean the toy as you normally would, and the decals can be replaced later. If the toy is valuable, consider a gentle wipe instead of full submersion.