How to Clean Your Child’s Beloved Germ Collectors (A.K.A. Stuffed Animals)

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Stuffed animals — many of us are buried under a mountain of them. It feels like they multiply overnight! Our kids adore these cuddly companions, so what can a parent do? You’re in it for the long haul. However, those cherished toys can become hotspots for germs and grime. The real question is, how do you clean them without risking your little one’s favorite friend? What if you toss Mr. Fluffy into the wash and he emerges as a sad, misshapen version of himself? You certainly don’t want to take that chance—especially if you want bedtime to remain peaceful. If decluttering isn’t an option, let’s explore how to keep them clean and relatively germ-free! We’ll guide you through three effective methods: machine washing, hand washing, and spot cleaning.

Before diving in, let’s consider some key factors when washing different stuffed animals. First, time your cleaning wisely. Tossing them in the wash right before bedtime might create chaos (#PunIntended). If your child counts on Mr. Fluffy for a good night’s sleep, you’ll only complicate the bedtime routine. Also, avoid washing them during naps. Always factor in how long it will take to wash and dry the stuffed animal before you throw it into the wash.

Next, assess the condition of the toy. Is it old and worn? If so, hand washing is likely the safest option to prevent damage. Do any of your child’s stuffed animals have batteries? If so, they can’t be submerged in water. In this case, spot cleaning is the way to go. Now that we have the basics down, let’s look at the best ways to clean your child’s stuffed animals.

Machine Washing Stuffed Animals

If you choose to machine wash the toy, keep these tips in mind:

• Check the care label for washing instructions. If it’s missing, don’t worry—most stuffed animals are machine washable.
• Use cold water and the gentlest cycle available.
• Washing machines without agitators are preferable. If you must use a top loader, place the stuffed animal in a zippered garment bag or pillowcase secured with a hair tie to protect any glued parts.
• If Mr. Fluffy is particularly dirty, feel free to pre-treat any spots (just do a test first!). You can also add an oxygen booster for extra stain removal or a bit of laundry disinfectant if necessary.
• Adding a few towels to the load can help protect the stuffed animal during the wash.
• Avoid washing toys with delicate accessories (like sparkly outfits) as this will likely lead to disappointment.
• Don’t forget to air dry your stuffed animals; they don’t fare well in the dryer!

How Often to Wash Stuffed Animals

Since your little one takes their stuffed friends everywhere—from the bathroom to the playground—you should wash them at least once a month. This helps keep germs at bay and can reduce allergies caused by dust mites. Remember, these little pests can cling to stuffed animals as easily as they do to pillows. Thankfully, they can’t survive in water that’s 130 degrees Fahrenheit, so make sure your washing machine is set accordingly.

Hand Washing Stuffed Animals

Hand washing is the best approach for fragile stuffed animals. The more loved they are, the less likely they are to endure a spin cycle. Here’s how to do it the right way:

1. Get a basin like a sink or bucket, and gather your stuffed animal and washing agent. You can use laundry detergent, dish soap, or baby shampoo—about one tablespoon for every gallon of water.
2. Set up your area and fill the basin with warm water. A towel underneath can help catch splashes.
3. Gently submerge Mr. Fluffy into the water, agitating it lightly, then let it soak for about an hour.
4. Rinse with cold running water until all soap is gone. Squeeze out excess water gently—don’t wring it out.
5. Wrap the stuffed animal in a towel and press gently to remove more water.
6. Finally, let it air dry, ideally in front of a fan or an open window. Soon enough, your child’s favorite toy will be good as new!

Spot Cleaning Stuffed Animals

For stuffed animals with batteries, spot cleaning is your best bet. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of soap.
2. Use a washcloth to dab at the dirty spots.
3. Let it air dry.

If Mr. Fluffy needs a little fluffing, you can use a blow dryer on a low setting to rejuvenate the fur. This trick works for any of the cleaning methods!

Cleaning Stuffed Animals That Cannot Get Wet

Sometimes, you’ll find a stuffed animal that should never get wet. If it has electronics (or turns into a gremlin when wet), you can freeze germs away. Place the toy in a ziplock bag, seal it, and put it in the freezer overnight or for at least three hours. This will kill any germs. Afterward, defrost it, and feel free to use a blow dryer to speed up the process.

You can also use baking soda! If Mr. Fluffy is just dusty or slightly dirty, instead of washing, try placing him in a plastic bag with a sprinkle of baking soda or cornstarch. Shake it up to absorb dirt and odors, then remove and vacuum off any residue.

How to Clean Old Stuffed Animals

If Mr. Fluffy is a cherished family heirloom, you’ll need to be extra careful when cleaning. Here are some tips:

1. Soak the stuffed animal in cold water for 5-10 minutes to loosen fibers and prevent tears.
2. Hand wash gently using detergent.
3. Air dry—never put it in the dryer.

For more insights, check out our other blog post here and learn more about related topics from Make a Mom.

Summary

Cleaning your child’s stuffed animals is essential to keeping them germ-free and well-maintained. Whether you choose machine washing, hand washing, or spot cleaning, understanding the type and condition of the toy is crucial for effective cleaning. Regular maintenance not only ensures that your child’s favorite toys remain safe to cuddle but also helps prolong their lifespan. For more tips and guidance, you can refer to resources like Progyny for broader insights on pregnancy and home insemination.