How to Clean Stuffed Animals Without Ruining Them
by Corina Volegna

Description: Easy tips for washing your children's favorite stuffed animals.

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If you have a special stuffed animal, whether it's a much loved child's toy or a perfect decoration for your living room, it's a shame to watch it give in to the ravages of time. Dirt and dust are pervasive, impossible to stop annoyances, but it is possible to clean up your favorite dirty teddy bear! And you can do it without ruining the toy too. Water and teddy bears aren't mutually exclusive. Whether the plush animal is only a little dusty, or extremely soiled, these tricks and tips will insure you never lose another stuffed animal to the ravages of dirt again.

"A Little Dusty"

Dust is unavoidable, and so cleaning some off before the plush animal's status becomes code red is a good idea. This is actually quite easy, just get a damp cloth or duster to wipe way the accumulated dust. You can even use a disinfecting cloth to wipe away any unwanted germs. If just cleaning the surface isn't enough for you, another great approach is to toss the plush toy into the dryer with a couple of scented dryer sheets. All you need to do is to set the temperature on high in order to kill germs, and let it go for 10 minutes. This way both their insides and outsides have been freshened up. You'll feel like the toy is new again!

"I Need a Bath"

If your teddy bear ends up on the floor a lot, then it probably needs a better cleaning then the ones above. There are several options here. First, you can let the plush toy soak overnight with some softener and detergent, then throw them in the dryer for that fresh smell. Or, you can just simply throw them in the washing machine. To keep the toy safe, put it in a pillow case and knot the case closed. Then, so as not to damage the stuffed animal, set the washer on a gentle cycle with cold water, and always make sure you dry it on low. A low heat setting for a half and hour will be plenty for the toy, and then when you take them out, straighten the teddy bear in case any of its stuffing has shifted out of place.

"I Need a Miracle"

These toys have had a hard life. But even covered in dirt and unidentifiable gunk, there are ways to clean them. Those terrible stains don't have to be irreversible. Whether they are beloved childhood toys or your favorite Valentine's Day present from a loved one, miracles do happen. Make sure you get some carpet cleaner and a toothbrush. The toothbrush is a good size brush for delicate toys, as anything bigger could ruin them. This is especially good for spotting stains. Just squirt a little cleaner on the brush and gently scrub on the worst spots. Once you have done this, rinse the plush animal in cold water, until the water runs clear. Then you can put the stuffed toy in the dryer for 10 minutes. It will most likely not be completely dry, but that's okay, as then you can let it air dry. Don't forget to use a disinfecting cloth, which is especially important if its toy for a small child.

So as you can see, there are many ways to clean a stuffed animal. Even when it seems the toy may be beyond saving, don't give up! If it's important to you, it might just be worth a little elbow grease. You'll be happy when your favorite toys are fresh, clean, and just like new again!

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