How To Safely Wash Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals are an inevitable part of a child's life. They are colourful and pretty, all kids love them. Actually, adults like them too. Unless toys get dirty and start breeding bacteria that can affect your child's health. Therefore washing stuffed toys once in a while is essential. But this can be pretty tricky. Some plush toys can be placed in the washing machine, others might get damaged. It depends on the type of each toy. Here are some tips on how to safely clean dirty stuffed animals and make sure that your child has lovely bacteria-free toys to play with.
Dusting
Even if your stuffed animals don't really need to be washed yet, some basic maintenance is necessary. Don't wait for the dirt on the toys to become visible, but make sure you clean them often because they collect a lot of dust that you can't usually see. Make sure you regularly dust them. You can either use a hairbrush or a damp cloth to remove whatever is stuck in the fur of the toys. Use a soft hairbrush, otherwise you might tear the fabric of the toy. In case you use a damp cloth, rub gently to wipe dust away from the surface of the stuffed animal. An additional option to you can clean your child's plush toys is a lint roller or a vacuum machine. In case the toys have collected a lot of dust, you can put them in a plastic vacuum bag, such as the one you use to put clothes in and suck air out to shrink it so that the clothes take less space in the wardrobe or fit your suitcase more easily. When all of the plush toys you want to clean are in the vacuum bag, use your vacuum machine and dust them easily. If you have a special attachment for your vacuum machine, you can also use it to clean toys without putting them in a special bag.
Machine Wash
Most plush toys can be washed in the washing machine. However, it's recommended to check the label first and see if machine washing is possible. Fabric toys and such with synthetic materials like polyester can be washed in the washing machine. Toys with natural materials like wool or cotton have to be treated differently. Also, don't machine-wash toys that have a music box inside. Before you put the toys in the washing machine, make sure you check well for tears and rips on them. If there are such, repair them by sewing them and then place them for a wash. Also, if there are any tough stains, take care of them in advance otherwise they might still remain after you take the toys out of the washing machine. Place the stuffed animals in a laundry bag or a pillow case and put in the washing machine. It's a good idea to use a soft detergent. Wash on a low-degree cycle and when it's ready, brush the stuffed animals and hang them to dry. Don't place them in the dryer.
In case you decide to hand-wash stuffed animals, make sure you don't use harsh chemical-based detergents, like ammonia. Also, don't scrub them too hard.
Non-Washable Toys
Toys that can't be washed in the washing machine, have to be cleaned gently with a sponge or a damp cloth. You can get your children involved and turn the process into a fun game.
Author Bio: Paula Sheamus has many years of experience in cleaning industry. She currently runs http://www.shinylondon.co.uk/deep-cleaning-kilburn-nw6/ and loves to share tips and advices.