You’ve grown attached to a collection of adorable plushies. They’re your comfort buddies, sleep companions, and constant confidants. But, let’s face it—they’re starting to look a bit grubby. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!
Learning how to wash your plushies properly can extend their lifespan and keep them looking fresh and clean. We promise it’s more manageable than it sounds. With a few easy steps, you’ll have your cuddly friends back to their fluffy best in no time. So, let’s dive in and get those plushies squeaky clean!
Why it’s important to wash plushies
Much like your clothes, plushies accumulate dirt, sweat, dust, and allergens with time. According to Arizona State University’s guide, these germs can make you sick if you don’t attend to proper hygiene. Whether on your bed, on the couch, or carried around by your toddler, plushies are not immune to getting dirty.
Regular cleaning of these cuddly toys is a must-do task for various reasons. Let’s delve deeper.
Health and Hygiene
Just as you wouldn’t want to wear dirty clothes, you shouldn’t ignore the cleanliness of your plushies. Dirt and dust on plushies can trigger allergies, especially in children who have sensitive systems. You surely wouldn’t want your child’s favorite toy to be a carrier of allergic reactions or infections.
Prolonging Lifespan
Proper maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your plushies. Each time you clean them, you remove dirt and prevent fabric wear, discoloration, and general degradation. Remember – a well-cared-for plushie can last years, providing endless comfort and companionship.
Maintaining Appearance
There’s no denying the joy of a fresh, clean plushie! Not only is it more appealing to cuddle with, but it also maintains the vibrant look of its fabric. Moreover, regular cleaning prevents unpleasant odors. After all, you’ll likely hug it less if it doesn’t smell so great!
Now that you know why it’s essential to wash plushies, it’s time to learn about the proper technique. A good wash can disinfect them efficiently and make them look as good as new. So fear not, even if you’ve never washed a plushie before – we’ll make this easy!
Preparing your Plushies for Washing
Are you getting ready to dive into the world of plushie cleaning? There’s more to it than just throwing your beloved plushie into the washing machine and pressing “start.” You need to take a few steps beforehand.
Beginning with inspection, examine your plush thoroughly for a few minutes. Check for any loose threads, holes, or tears. Stitches in time save nine and can prevent more damage during the wash. If you find any, fix them before moving on to the next step. You don’t want any stuffing falling out in the cleaning process.
Next, look for cleaning instructions. Most plushies come with wash care labels that include specific instructions. These could be embedded in the plushie itself or, sometimes, be available on the manufacturer’s website. Follow those carefully; every plushie is unique and may need different handling.
The third step is to remove any clothes, accessories, or hardware. Plushie outfits can cause complications in the washing process, like color bleeding. Additionally, metal accessories may damage your plushie and the washing machine due to rust or sharp edges.
Finally, it’s necessary to protect your plushie. Consider putting your plushie in a pillowcase or a mesh wash bag. This provides an extra layer of protection and can help keep the plushie intact. It’s like a seatbelt for your plushie: an additional safety measure to prevent possible harm during the wash.
Getting your plushie ready for a deep clean is more complex than it sounds. It requires attention to detail and adherence to specific steps. Inspect, understand, remove, and protect – these are vital steps. You’re ready to wash your plushie once you’ve attended to these areas. Follow these steps diligently to keep your plushie looking great and lasting a lifetime.
Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing
So, you’ve prepared your plushie correctly and are ready to clean it well. Now, it’s time to make another crucial decision: Hand washing vs. machine washing. These two methods have their merits and pitfalls, and you must understand them well. Your ultimate decision will significantly impact the durability and appearance of your plushie. It’s not a one-size-fits-all choice, but it highly depends on the plushie’s material, size, and condition.
The Art of Hand Washing
Hand washing is an excellent method when dealing with delicate plushies, antique toys, or ones with intricate designs or added decorations. It’s a gentler cleansing approach that allows you to control the intensity and focus of your cleaning. This method is undoubtedly more time-consuming, but it’s a small price to pay to preserve your plush’s longevity.
You’ll need lukewarm water, a gentle detergent, and a soft cleaning brush. Submerge your plushie in the soapy solution and use the brush to scrub away dirt and dust. Afterward, please give them a thorough rinse to ensure no soap remains.
Hop Into the Machine Washing
On the other hand, machine washing is an efficient and effortless method that’s great for durable plush toys. It’s an effective way to clean more giant or heavily soiled plushies. For this method, you’ll need to use a gentle cycle and mild detergent to protect your plushie in a pillowcase or laundry bag.
Running your plushie through a machine wash can reveal a brand-new toy, but be wary – if not done right, it can also be destructive. Therefore, you must closely inspect your plushie’s stitching and material before tossing it into the washer.
Both hand washing and machine washing have their benefits and drawbacks. Hence, make a wise choice based on understanding the needs and limitations of your beloved toys. Remember, your ultimate goal is to keep your plushie clean, comfortable, and long-lasting.
Choosing the Appropriate Detergent
Selecting the suitable detergent is a crucial step in the plushie cleaning process. Your plushie’s material determines the best type of detergent for washing. While many plushies can tolerate regular gentle detergents, some need specialized cleaners to maintain their shape and texture.
Let’s dive into the major types of detergents you’ll come across:
Gentle Detergents
These are suitable for most plushies. Gentle detergents aren’t harsh on fabrics and won’t cause colors to fade. Whether hand or machine washing, a mild detergent is generally safe.
Fabric Softeners
Conventional wisdom might tell you that fabric softeners are a plushie’s best friend. However, they can damage certain materials over time. If your plushie is made of synthetic fibers like polyester, avoid using fabric softeners, as they can break down these materials.
Specialized Plushie-Friendly Detergents
Yes, they exist! Specialized plushie-friendly detergents are designed to be extra gentle on delicate fabrics. They are ideal for antique, soft, or very loved plushies that need extra care.
When picking a suitable detergent, always read the label carefully. Watch for warnings or any specific plushie-material restrictions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Plushies
Your plushies deserve the utmost care, and how you wash them can significantly affect their longevity and appearance. So, let’s dive into an easy, step-by-step guide for washing your plushies to keep them clean and long-lasting.
Preparation Phase
Before getting started on the actual washing, there is a preparation phase. You’ll need to inspect your plushies for any visible dirt or stains. It’s also critical to see if there are any loose seams or accessories that could be damaged during washing.
Check for any washing instructions on the plushie’s label. Respect these instructions as much as you can for a successful cleaning session.
Hand Washing Method
If your plushie is delicate or antique, the safest method is hand washing. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the plushie’s fibers. Warm or cold water with a gentle detergent is your best choice. Mix the detergent in the water and submerge the plushie; gentle rubbing can help remove dirt. After washing, rinse thoroughly and squeeze out the excess water gently. Avoid twisting or wringing your plushie, as this can distort its shape.
Machine Washing Method
Machine washing can be more efficient for larger or heavily soiled plushies. Start by protecting the plushie in a pillowcase or a laundry bag. Set the machine to a mild cycle, and again, use a gentle detergent. Once the cycle ends, remove the plushie and gently squeeze out the excess water.
Each plushie is unique, so you must adjust these steps as necessary, matching their material, size, and particular care instructions. Always taking these precautions will set your plushies up for a longer, cleaner life. Remember, regular cleaning is essential—not only for hygiene reasons but also to keep your plushies looking their best.
Drying and reshaping plushies
Post-wash care, such as correct drying and reshaping, is vital to extend the lifetime of your plushies. Whether you’ve chosen hand or machine washing, these additional steps are crucial in maintaining the softness and integrity of your plushies’ fabric and stuffing.
Air Drying: The Preferred Method
First, remember that air drying is the most recommended method. It would help if you always avoided direct sunlight, as it can cause color fading. Instead, choose a well-ventilated place indoors. Lay your plushie on a clean, dry towel and gently press out excess water. However, refrain from wringing it out – this can distort the shape of your plushy and even rip its seams.
Once you’ve removed most of the water, place your toy on a dry towel. Roll it up and gently press to absorb the remaining moisture. Then, position your plushie in its natural shape on a flat, dry surface. Make sure to turn it occasionally to ensure even drying.
Careful Reshaping
While your plushie is damp, seize the opportunity to restore its shape. Adjust any limbs or floppy parts, and fluff up the fur if needed. It’s also an excellent time to replace any detached parts you removed before washing, such as clothes or accessories.
Machine Drying: Use with Caution
Although air drying is the go-to choice, some plushies can endure machine drying. If you opt for this, please proceed with caution. Set the dryer to its lowest heat setting to prevent the melting of synthetic materials. Include a dry towel in the drum to reduce tumbling and protect the toy’s form.
Remember, each plushie is different and might require specific care. Always refer back to the manufacturer’s instructions or the care label. It’s your mission to keep your plushies clean, soft, fresh, and personable.
Tips for maintaining plushies
Apart from keeping your plushies clean through thorough, gentle washing, there’s more you can do to ensure they stay in great condition. Proper plushie maintenance requires regular care and attention, so here are some tips to get you started.
Make dusting and spot cleaning a part of your routine. It’s okay to deep clean plushies only occasionally. Light maintenance, such as dusting off with a soft brush or removing minor stains with a damp cloth, can prolong the duration of extensive washing. Watch out for tea, juice, and food spills and address them immediately. The faster you act, the less likely a stain will set.
Consider investing in protective covers or netting, especially for plushies that are part of a collection or have sentimental value. These covers can guard against dust accumulation and keep your cute companions looking neat. Furthermore, they reduce the need for frequent washing, preserving the structure and integrity of your plushies’ fabric.
Avoid exposing plushies to prolonged direct sunlight. Exposure to the sun could lead to colors fading over time. Please keep them in a shady area of your room to retain their vibrant colors for longer.
Finally, make sure to store plushies properly. If you aren’t using or displaying them, place them in a cool, dry place. Preferably, store them in a sealed container that prevents dust or insects from getting in. Remember, moisture promotes mold growth, so ensure the space is dry!
By incorporating these tips into your care routine, you will likely extend the life of your favorite plushies, keeping them clean, vibrant, and adorable for several years.
Conclusion
You now know how to keep your plushies clean and long-lasting. Remember, inspect your plushies before washing them and choose the suitable method. Hand washing is best for delicate items, while machine washing works well for more extensive or dirtier plushies. Always use a gentle detergent and ensure your plushie is well-protected during the wash.
Post-wash care is just as crucial. Air dry your plushies, gently press out excess water, and reshape them. Some can withstand machine drying, but always use a low heat setting and include a dry towel.
Every plushie is unique, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care details. Regular maintenance like dusting, spot cleaning, and proper storage will also extend the life of your plushies. With these tips, your plushies will stay fresh and huggable for years.
Clotheslyne: A Professional Laundry Solution
For those who prefer professional laundry care, Clotheslyne provides an ideal solution. Through the app, you can hire Clotheslyners for expert laundry services, including washing, drying, and folding of clothes and bulky items.
Choosing Clotheslyne ensures your laundry is handled with care and expertise. It’s convenient for those who value their time and prefer professional laundry services.
To use Clotheslyne, download the iOS Apple App or Google Play Store Android app to schedule your laundry pick up.
You can also schedule your laundry pick up through our web portal.
Fill up a tall kitchen bag full of clothes. A Clotheslyner in your community will pick it up and deliver it back to you washed, dried, and folded in 48 hours. It’s that simple.
Got a question for us? Head over to our contact us page and make a custom request by email or by phone! We’re here to help.