How to Wash Stuffed Animals by hand & washing machine
Stuffed animals often hold sentimental value, and over time, they can accumulate dirt and grime. It is essential to have a good understanding of how to properly clean and preserve the items in your collection, regardless of whether you are dealing with a treasured childhood friend or a new addition to your collection.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of washing stuffed animals both by hand and using a washing machine, ensuring that your plush friends stay fresh and cuddly for years to come.
Part 1: How to Wash Stuffed Animals by Hand
Hand washing is a gentle method that’s particularly suitable for older or more delicate stuffed animals. Here’s how to do it:
Check the Label:
Before washing your stuffed animals check the care label attached to the stuffed animals. It will provide essential information about washing instructions and any specific precautions to take.
Prep the Cleaning Area:
Find a clean, spacious area to work in. Lay down a towel to protect surfaces.
Spot Clean:
If there are any noticeable stains, gently dab them with a mixture of mild detergent and water. To prevent causing damage to the fabric, use a soft cloth or sponge.
Prepare the Cleaning Solution:
Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Make sure the detergent is suitable for all types of delicate fabrics.
Submerge and Gently Agitate:
Immerse the stuffed animal in the soapy water. Gently agitate the water around the toy to help loosen dirt and grime.
Clean the Exterior:
Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean the stuffed animal. Pay close attention to any cracks or challenges to access regions.
Rinse Thoroughly:
Empty the wash basin and refill it with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the stuffed animal by gently agitating it in the water. Repeat this process until all soap residue is removed from the stuffed toys.
Remove Excess Water:
Gently squeeze the stuffed animal to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can damage the toy’s shape.
Air Dry:
Place the stuffed animal on a clean towel and reshape it to its original form. Allow it to air dry in a room with good ventilation, away from the sun and other heat sources.
Part 2: Washing Stuffed Animals in the Washing Machine
Washing machines can be a convenient option for larger or machine-washable stuffed animals. However, some precautions are necessary:
Check the Label:
As with hand washing, always check the care label to ensure the stuffed animal is machine washable.
Prepare the Stuffed Animal:
Place the stuffed animal in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag. This will protect it from direct contact with the agitator or other clothing.
Use a Gentle Cycle:
Set the delicate cycle on your washing machine and use cold water. To avoid harming the cloth, use a gentle detergent.
Avoid Aggressive:
Spinning: Opt for a low spin speed or no spin at all. Excessive spinning can distort the shape of the stuffed animal.
Multiple Items:
If washing multiple stuffed animals, ensure that they’re of similar colours and sizes to prevent damage.
Air Dry:
Once the cycle is complete, remove the stuffed animal from the pillowcase or mesh bag and gently reshape it. Allow it to air dry as described in the hand washing section.
Part 3: Can You Put Stuffed Animals in the Washer?
If you are wondering “Can you put stuffed animals in the washer” then in general, many stuffed animals can be safely washed in a washing machine, provided that they are machine washable and you follow the care instructions.
Always check the care label and consider the toy’s fabric, construction, and embellishments (such as buttons or sequins) before deciding on the washing method.
Part 4: How to Clean Stuffed Animals
Routine cleaning can help maintain the appearance and hygiene of your stuffed animals:
Dusting:
Regularly dust the stuffed animals with a soft brush or lint roller to remove surface dirt and debris. Especially if you are planning to clean old stuffed animals.
Spot Cleaning:
Attend to stains promptly with a gentle cleaning solution, as described in the hand washing section.
Avoid Water When Not Necessary:
If a stuffed animal is not visibly dirty, avoid unnecessary washing to preserve its overall quality.
Remember, each stuffed animal is unique, and its cleaning needs may vary. Always prioritize the care label instructions and exercise caution to ensure your beloved plush companions remain huggable and clean for years to come.
Also Read: How to Deep Clean Your Washing Machine Inside and Out
FAQ’s
Can stuffed animals go in the washing machine?
For extra protection against wear and tear, put the toy animal in a plastic laundry bag, a pillowcase with a zipper, or a pillowcase with the ends tied together. We suggest using cold water and the Delicate, Hand Wash, or Gentle settings on your washing machine to keep colours from fading.
Should you wash stuffed animals with detergent?
You can use a regular detergent when washing stuffed animals. Also, use a mild detergent if you are hand-washing the stuffed animals. The detergent will help to clean stuffed animals thoroughly.
How do you wash stuffed animals without ruining fur?
Use a mild detergent and wash it at a mild washing cycle and for utmost care, it is recommended to hand wash teddy bears and other stuffed toys.
How often wash stuffed animals?
It is recommended to wash teddy bears and stuffed animals at least once a month or whenever you feel like it needs to be washed.
How long does it take to air dry a stuffed animal?
For extra protection against wear and tear, put the toy animal in a plastic laundry bag, a pillowcase with a zipper, or a pillowcase with the ends tied together. We suggest using cold water and the Delicate, Hand Wash, or Gentle settings on your washing machine to keep colours from fading.
