Glow-In-The-Dark Guppy Grips: Care and Play Tips

Quick answer

Glow-in-the-dark Guppy Grips need light to charge and simple care to last. Shine a flashlight on them before bath time, clean them with mild soap and water, and store them dry. If they stop glowing after charging or the texture wears down, it is time to replace them.

Why Your Guppy Grips Stop Glowing (and How to Fix It)

Glow-in-the-dark Guppy Grips rely on phosphorescent material that absorbs light and releases it slowly. If they are not glowing, the most common reason is that they were not charged long enough or with a strong enough light. A quick pass under a dim bathroom light will not do much. Use a flashlight (not included) and hold it close to the grips for about 30 seconds to a minute. Then dim the lights and watch them glow. If they still do not glow, the material may be worn out or the grips may be dirty, which blocks light absorption.

How to Clean Guppy Grips Without Damaging the Glow

Bath toys can get soapy, mildewy, or grimy, but harsh cleaners can break down the glow material. The safest approach is to rinse them with warm water and mild dish soap after each use, then pat them dry with a towel. Avoid abrasive sponges, bleach, or alcohol-based cleaners. If you notice a sticky residue, a paste of baking soda and water can help, but rinse thoroughly. For a deeper clean, soak them in a 1:1 mixture of water and white vinegar for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry completely. Never put them in the dishwasher or microwave, as heat can warp the material and ruin the glow.

Play Ideas That Make the Most of the Glow

Guppy Grips are designed for bath time, but their glow opens up other play possibilities. Use them as diving toys in a dimmed bathroom—charge them first, then let kids find them in the water. They also work as sensory fidgets outside the tub; the textured, non-slip surface is fun to squeeze and explore. For a glowing under-the-sea adventure, pair them with other Glo Pals light-up toys, like the Pippa Light-Up Cubes 4-Pack, which light up when dropped in water. Just remember that Guppy Grips themselves do not light up on their own—they only glow after being charged.

Storing Guppy Grips So They Last

Proper storage keeps Guppy Grips clean and ready to glow. After bath time, shake off excess water and let them air-dry completely before putting them away. Store them in a dry, ventilated spot—not in a sealed, damp bag where mildew can grow. If you want to keep them charged for spontaneous play, leave them near a window or under a lamp, but avoid direct sunlight for long periods, which can fade colors. A small mesh bag works well for hanging them to dry. For more ideas on storing light-up toys, see our guide to Glo Pals storage.

Diagnosis: Common Guppy Grips Problems

• Grips won't glow: They likely need more charge time or a stronger light source. Use a flashlight for 30–60 seconds, then dim the lights. If they still don't glow, the phosphorescent material may be worn out. If charging doesn't work, replace the grips.
• Grips feel slimy or have a film: Soap scum or mildew is blocking the glow. Clean with mild soap and warm water, then dry completely. For stubborn film, soak in a 1:1 water and vinegar solution for 10 minutes. If the film returns quickly, check your storage—they may be staying damp.
• Grips are discolored or cracked: Heat damage or age can cause this. Avoid hot water, dishwashers, and direct sunlight. Once cracked, the texture can harbor bacteria and the glow will be uneven. Replace cracked or heavily discolored grips for safety and best glow.

Product facts

• Glow-In-The-Dark Guppy Grips: The Guppy Grips you know and love are back with the same fun designs, same grippy texture, but now they glow-in-the-dark. The glow feature is new, so you may need to adjust your charging routine to get the best effect.
• Glow-In-The-Dark Guppy Grips: Just shine a flashlight (not included) on your Grips to charge them up, then dim the lights. A flashlight is required for charging; without it, the grips will not glow brightly.
• Glow-In-The-Dark Guppy Grips: The textured, non-slip surface is fun and functional, meaning more bath time fun with fewer slips and slides. The texture helps with grip but can trap soap residue, so regular cleaning is important.