Derek Johnson is a product analyst with a background in engineering. He enjoys breaking down the technical aspects of inflatable pools for Pool Epic readers. Derek's articles are informative, providing readers with a deeper understanding of product features and quality.
Hey there! If your inflatable pool toy has become hard and crinkly after being exposed to the sun, don't worry, I've got you covered. In this guide, I'll walk you through some simple steps to soften and revive your sun-damaged pool toy.
First things first, let's gather the supplies you'll need. You'll need a bucket or basin large enough to hold your pool toy, warm water, mild soap or dish detergent, a soft cloth or sponge, and a towel for drying.
Inflatable Pool Cleaning Supplies Checklist
Item 📝 | Purpose 🎯 | Recommended Type 🏅 | Additional Notes 📌 |
---|---|---|---|
Bucket or Basin | To hold pool toy | Large enough to fit your inflatable pool | Ensure it's clean and free from sharp objects |
Warm Water | To clean the pool | Tap water is fine | Temperature should be comfortable to touch, not scalding |
Mild Soap or Dish Detergent | To remove dirt and grime | Non-abrasive, gentle soap | Avoid soaps with harsh chemicals that can damage the pool material |
Soft Cloth or Sponge | To scrub the pool | Non-abrasive cloth or sponge | Avoid using brushes or anything that can scratch the pool surface |
Towel | For drying the pool | Absorbent towel | Ensure the pool is completely dry before storing to prevent mold growth |
To start, fill the bucket or basin with warm water. Add a small amount of mild soap or dish detergent and mix it gently until it creates a soapy solution. Make sure the water is not too hot, as it can damage the material of the pool toy.
Next, submerge the hard and crinkly pool toy into the soapy water. Allow it to soak for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the surface.
After the soaking period, take the soft cloth or sponge and gently scrub the surface of the pool toy. Be careful not to use excessive force, as it may cause further damage. Focus on the areas that are particularly hard or crinkly, giving them some extra attention.
Once you've cleaned the entire surface, rinse the pool toy thoroughly with clean water. Make sure to remove all traces of soap or detergent. Any residue left behind can cause the material to become sticky or attract dirt.
Now, it's time to dry your pool toy. Use a towel to gently pat it dry, removing as much moisture as possible. Avoid wringing or twisting the toy, as it can distort its shape.
To speed up the drying process, you can also leave the pool toy in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. This will allow it to air dry naturally.
If your pool toy is still not as soft as you'd like it to be, you can try using a hairdryer on a low heat setting. Hold the hairdryer a few inches away from the toy and move it around to evenly distribute the heat. Be cautious not to overheat the toy, as it can cause damage.
Tips for Inflatable Pool Toy Maintenance
Remember, prevention is key to keeping your inflatable pool toys in great condition. When not in use, store them in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will help to prolong their lifespan and maintain their softness.
I hope these tips help you revive your sun-damaged pool toy and get it back to its original soft and squishy state. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Have a splashing good time in your pool!