Upon seeing their favorite cute stuffed animal, a crying baby’s tears can suddenly disappear, and quickly turn into giggles. Not only stuffed animals serve as great companions, but they also provide kids with comfort and entertainment.
These “sources of joy” often require thorough handling and care, including thorough washing. So before you grab your laundry bag and start to wash stuffed animals, it’s best to know how to wash them properly.
Before You Wash a Stuffed Animal
The first thing you’ll need to do is check the manufacturer’s washing instructions. Identify the machine-washable stuffed animals versus those that are not. Read the laundry symbols indicating whether you should use a washing machine, do a hand-wash, or only spot-clean stains.
How to Wash a Stuffed Animal with Washing Machine
Machine washing stuffed animals is easy. You’ll need three things: a mesh laundry bag, detergent, and a washing machine.
- Protect. Whether you’re washing one or multiple stuffed toys, put them inside a mesh laundry bag to prevent them from snagging or being pounded.
- Wash. Place them inside the washing machine and spin away using a gentle or delicate setting with cold water to prevent the colors from fading.
- Add detergent. We recommend using a mild detergent, but a regular detergent will do.
- Dry. Once the cycle has finished, carefully remove your cuddly toy and place it in the open to dry.
How to Hand-Wash a Stuffed Animal With Spot Treatment
Wash stuffed animals by hand, especially the older ones, for they may need a lighter touch. You will need a bucket or a sink, a mild or gentle detergent, a clean towel, and a toothbrush.
- Add detergent. Fill the bucket or whatever space you’re using with warm water, and dissolve the detergent.
- Soak. Dip the towel and stuffed animal into the detergent solution.
- Hand-wash. Using the towel, gently rub the outside until the whole stuffed animal is clean. When dealing with a stubborn stain, lightly scrub the spot using a toothbrush.
- Rinse. Refill the bucket with cold water and gently submerge the stuffed animal.
- Hang dry. Leave it dry at room temperature. Letting it sit in front of a fan is optional.
How to Clean Stuffed Animals with Electronic Components
You can’t run electronic stuffed animals and toys through the washing machine. Repair any rips or tears and remove any batteries before washing. You’ll need hot water, laundry detergent, a basin, a washcloth, and a clean cloth.
- Mix. Pour hot water into the basin and add a small laundry detergent.
- Rub. Dip the washcloth and gently rub the entire surface of the stuffed animal. Do this cautiously to avoid getting the battery area wet.
- Rinse. Grab a clean cloth, moisten it with plain water, and rub the stuffed animal. Repeat as needed.
- Dry. Leave it to dry in the fresh air instead of exposing it direct to sunlight.
Leave it to the Experts
Washing a stuffed animal can be challenging. If unsure, best approach the professionals or dry cleaning facilities for toys and stuffed animals. These people have the right knowledge, skills, and equipment to properly handle and effectively clean and wash your child’s favorite stuffed toy.
Conclusion
Washing stuffed animals shouldn’t be a painful process. Follow the tips above, identify which method best fits your case, and you’re all set! Pretty soon, you’ll get the hang of washing stuffed animals. Best of all, you can make your child happy and safe with a fresh, thoroughly cleaned stuffed animal.
