Before You Put a Zoo in the Washing Machine: Cleaning Stuffed Animals

Loveable, huggable, plush pillows, dolls, and stuffed animals need regular cleaning to stay bright, fresh and sanitary. Just like real animals in a zoo, plush look-a-likes need special handling to come out refreshed without coming apart. Here are a few top tips for taking care of your child’s main squeezes in the washing machine.

1. Prepare plushables for the washing machine and dryer

First, determine if the plush is machine washable. Check for tags with washing instructions, or consider the fabric and construction of the doll or critters. Never wash wool, rayon, mohair or alpaca in a machine. Aged and fragile, stiffly stuffed and glittery, glued-on adornments will not survive the tsunami in a machine and neither will fillers like foam balls, rice or beans rather than batting or stuffing.

Next, technology like music or voice boxes and battery compartments not meant for water exposure must be removed during washing and drying.

Finally, look for loose parts and tears to mend before taking the plunge. Secure loose limbs, buttons or clothing that can separate from the critter or be damaged by heat from hot water or a dryer.

2. Ready, set, wash!

Place the toys in a pillow case and secure with safety pins or in a mesh laundry bag. This added layer of protection helps prevent “injuries” like rips and snags during the wash or loose items getting lost in the drain.

Diluted and mixed with other additives, vinegar makes an effective presoak and softening solution. Mix a teaspoon of lemon juice or a dash of dish detergent, one part clear vinegar and two parts water. Soak 20 or more minutes before washing.

Skip fabric softener that can damage fabrics and hot water that can melt adhesives used in the construction. Fill the washer with only cold water and a dash of mild detergent or vinegar solution. Choose the gentle setting, and avoid agitators.

3. High and Dry

After washing, check for bumpy, lumpy or balled up filler. Work it out smoothly while still damp. Even the lowest heat setting on a dryer can melt or damage fabrics, plastics, and glue, so it is better to air dry in a sunny location. However, you can set the dryer to no heat and run it for two cycles.

4. Fluff and Go

Double check for any damage to repair. Dental picks and fine combs are great for restoring the fluff factor before taking teddy or dolly on their next adventure.

If your child is anxious about parting with Teddy or Tomater, invite them to participate in their “bath time.” Let them help check for stains, tears, and loose parts to tend. Using front loading washing machines lets them keep watch over their friends. Whether you will be keeping or donating them, your child might enjoy helping take care of her plush zoo so she or another lucky child can cuddle them closer tonight.