Toni, you are not being fussy. They were my exact thoughts.

The vinegar would work. But I am not sure about how it would affect the plastic, being so acidic...
Some plastics even deteriorate with boiling water. So depending on what material the toys are made from, the dishwasher might actually harm them.

Having said that, mold is also a serious health risk...

By the way, DD still drink the bathwater all the time. In fact, she also drinks the water at the public pool we go to - eek!!!