Keep bath toys clean

photo by thesoftlanding

DEAR SARA: What do you use to clean the kids’ bath toys? Recently, I noticed that the bath toys had residue on them from shampoo and bubble bath. They almost feel kind of greasy when wet. What have you found that cleans them quickly and efficiently? — Kelly, Canada

DEAR KELLY: I drain the tub, shake the toys to remove any water and put them into a plastic mesh tote that I keep in the bathroom. It allows air to circulate, so they dry easily. You can put them in the tub or sink with a vinegar and water solution, a weak bleach and water mix or Lysol liquid and let them soak a bit, and then scrub with a dish brush or old toothbrush. Rinse well and dry them. You can wash some in the dishwasher or washing machine, too. Squeaky toys seem fun but harbor mold when used as tub toys. So avoid toys that have holes in them.

DEAR SARA: I have to make 60 deviled eggs for a baby shower and was wondering after the eggs are hard-boiled, do I have to peel them right away for deviled eggs? Can they be boiled today, refrigerated and then peeled and mixed tomorrow night and “constructed” Saturday morning? — Denise, California

DEAR DENISE: Unpeeled hard-boiled eggs last about a week when stored in the refrigerator. Once peeled, they should be placed in a sealed container and consumed within three days. So you have plenty of time. Stuff them by using a plastic baggie with a corner snipped off, and pipe the yolk mixture. It makes the job quicker than spooning.

DEAR SARA: What is one appliance you want but can’t have due to either finances or space? — Carol, Canada

DEAR CAROL: I have an Excalibur dehydrator on my wish list. I’m sure I could find the space, but can’t quite justify buying it. I can afford it. I’m simply not sure I’d use it enough to justify buying it. Years ago, I made a mistake by thinking I really wanted a nice sewing machine. I have had this dream of sewing since a very frustrating pillow project in Home Economics class in 7th grade. I wanted to squash that demon and master sewing. Eventually, my husband surprised me and bought one for me. It was a romantic moment. I know it doesn’t seem very romantic, but it truly was. Then I realized that I don’t have the time or patience for sewing at this stage of my life.

I don’t want to make the same mistake with a dehydrator and kid myself into thinking that I have time to dehydrate and store foods. I don’t want it to end up a sewing table. So whenever I start to think I want an appliance that can help me save money, I remind myself that just because something saves some people money doesn’t mean it’s practical for me and will save me money. Of course, I think about money going to priorities and available space, too. I’m a strong believer in creating wish lists and delaying purchases. I look back on my wish list and can’t believe the money I’ve saved by not rushing into buying things. Often, I cross it off my list because I’ve found that I don’t really want it anymore. And yes, I’m embarrassed that I don’t use my sewing machine. However, I will take time to sew. It’s on my bucket list. (Finishing a quilt my grandmother started when I was a child holds me accountable.)

Posted by Sara Noel on March 15 2010. Filed under Question & Answer.
Sara Noel owns Frugal Village, LLC and is a nationally syndicated columnist with Universal Uclick. Bio, Follow me on Twitter, Join us on Facebook