When your kids’ favorite stuffed animal is so well-loved that it gets horribly dirty, you can’t always throw it in the wash. A lot of plus animals are spot-clean only. For those you can machine wash, simply follow the directions and preferably put it in a zippered pillowcase or mesh bag, allowing it to air dry when clean (unless the tag says you can put it in the dryer on low or air fluff). But for stuffed animals you can’t machine wash, here are some different ways to clean them.
Option 1:
Put the stuffed animal in a plastic garbage bag. Then add about half a cup of baking soda to the bag. If the animal is especially small or large, adjust the amount of baking soda accordingly. Just use your best judgement. Close the bag or tie the top in a knot, and shake it around for a few minutes. Afterward, let it rest in the bag for about 20 minutes to absorb any odors.
When you remove the toy from the bag, simply shake, brush, or vacuum off any extra baking soda. If you have stains, spot clean them at this point with a damp cloth and a mild soap, such as liquid dish detergent or baby shampoo.
Option 2:
If your toy is especially dirty and can’t be machine washed, you could try hand washing. However, make sure that the fabric and stuffing can handle the water. Check the tag to make sure there isn’t a warning about getting the toy wet. If you think you’re good to go, wash it by hand in the sink with a mild detergent like Woolite, then wring the water out and let it air dry. Clipping the toy onto a clothes line out in the sunshine will speed drying.
Option 3:
After using other means to clean the toy, putting it in the freezer for 24 to 48 hours will kill dust mites — especially helpful if your kids have allergies.
Thanks for the tips on cleaning stuffed animals! My kids love their stuffed animals and they all can’t be machine washed. I will be trying the baking soda trick for sure!