How can you clean your stuffed animals?

How can I clean and care for my stuffed animals?

Stuffed animals are very special objects, for both children and adults. They accompany us through unforgettable moments and can last for many years... as long as we take good care of them.

Stuffed animals can easily accumulate dust, become stained, lose color from prolonged exposure to sunlight, or deteriorate if stored improperly. If we don't care for them properly, they may not last as long as we'd like. Providing them with the necessary care not only extends their lifespan, it also helps prevent health problems such as allergies, something especially important for infants.

Here we share some tips so you can care for and enjoy your stuffed animal for a long time.

Daily care

Stuffed animals are made to be soft and cuddly, which makes many of us want to have them close by, whether we want to take them everywhere or place them in a special place in our home. This makes it common for them to get dirty or accumulate dirt over time.

Although it's normal to think about washing them, doing so too often can damage the plush's fluffy filling. Therefore, it's best to reserve washing only for when it's truly necessary. To keep them clean on a daily basis, simply shake out those that are on display or that aren't used as much regularly. You can also clean small stains with a little soap and a damp cloth (preferably microfiber or cotton), rubbing gently to avoid damaging the plush's fabric.

The location of your tree is also key to its preservation. Avoid placing it in humid areas or in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can affect its color and finish. If you decide to store it, it's best to use a plastic bag or container with a lid to protect it from dust and moisture.

Another good practice is to periodically check for loose threads, open seams, or loose buttons. If you notice anything like this, it's best to repair it immediately to prevent the damage from worsening over time.

Although it's best not to wash our stuffed animals too often, there will always be a time when they need to be washed. To know the best way to wash them, it's best to check the labels on the stuffed animals, as some can be machine-washed, hand-washed, or dry-cleaned. If you have any doubts, a good option is to take them to a good dry cleaner, where the staff will know how to properly care for them. Below, we'll explain how to wash stuffed animals that can safely get wet at home.

In the washing machine

Before washing your stuffed animal in the washing machine, make sure it has no loose threads, loose buttons, or open seams. Then, place it in a delicates bag.

Ideally, use a delicate cycle, with minimal detergent and no fabric softener, as this can affect the plush's texture. Avoid using water temperatures higher than 30°C. It's also important not to wash it with items that can shed lint or fade; it's best to wash it alone or with other plush toys. At the end of the cycle, carefully squeeze the plush to remove excess water. Do not use a dryer, as the heat can change its size or damage it.

Hand wash

Some stuffed animals, due to the type of fabric or filling, can be easily damaged if machine-washed. In these cases, it's best to hand-wash them. To do so, fill a container with warm water (no hotter than 30°C) and add a small amount of detergent. Dampen a microfiber or cotton cloth and use it to clean the dirtiest areas, rubbing gently . You can also use your hands to gently rub the stuffed animal.

Next, briefly submerge the stuffed animal in the water, gently squeeze out excess water, and repeat the process until clean. Then, empty and rinse the container, refill it with clean water, and rinse the stuffed animal by briefly submerging it and gently squeezing it out. Repeat this step as many times as necessary until the stuffed animal has no detergent left. Throughout the process, make sure the stuffed animal remains submerged for as little time as possible to prevent the water from damaging its stuffing.

Drying

To dry your stuffed animal after washing, do not use a dryer or place it near heat sources such as heaters, as heat can damage the fibers. Ideally, let it dry in partial shade on a clean towel, on a flat surface, in a well-ventilated area. Turn it over occasionally to ensure even drying. Depending on the weather and the size of your stuffed animal, it may take a couple of days to dry completely; don't despair.

If sun drying isn't possible or you need it to dry faster, you can use direct, continuous air from a fan. Place the stuffed animal on a towel on a flat surface and turn it over periodically to ensure even drying.

Before storing it, make sure it is completely dry, including the filling, to prevent the appearance of microorganisms or unpleasant odors.

With a little care and attention, your stuffed animals can be with you for years, just as soft, clean, and special as the first day. And if you want to continue expanding your family of stuffed animals or give them moments of curiosity, fun, and affection, we invite you to visit our online store and discover all our original and fun stuffed animals.

See Knitted Stuffed Animals here 👇