Plushies aren’t just for babies—they often hold sentimental value for adults, too.
Whether it’s your child’s favorite stuffed animal or a plushie you’ve cherished for years, these soft companions tend to collect dust, dirt, and germs over time. Keeping them clean is not only important for hygiene but also for preserving their softness and shape.
Here’s quick, three-step process to keep your plush friends looking and feeling fresh:
Step 1: Check the Plush Baby Toy’s Label and Prep for Cleaning
When cleaning plush baby toys, it’s important that you follow the care instructions.
Why? Because these toys often have softer, more delicate materials designed specifically for babies. Since they’re typically more gentle on the skin, they usually require special care to maintain their softness and durability.
When you clean plush baby toys, make sure that you start by:
- Checking for baby-specific care labels: Baby toys often have labels indicating if they’re safe for machine washing or if they require hand washing to preserve their softer fabrics.
- Removing baby-safe parts: If the toy has teething rings or fabric loops, take them off before cleaning. Ensure any rattles or crinkle inserts are securely sewn in or avoid washing them altogether.
- Assessing for delicate fabrics: Baby plush toys may use organic cotton, velour, or extra-soft polyester. Be cautious—hand-washing or delicate cycles may be necessary to avoid damaging these materials.
Step 2: Clean the Plush Baby Toy
Once you’ve prepped the plush baby toy, it’s time for cleaning!
Baby toys require extra care. That’s because they often come into direct contact with a baby’s skin and mouth, so using gentle, baby-safe cleaning methods is key. You can choose between machine washing or hand-washing, depending on the toy’s material and care label.
Here are three different methods for cleaning:
- Machine-washable toys: Place the toy in a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect its delicate fabrics. Use a gentle detergent that’s safe for babies, select a cold water and delicate cycle, and avoid using fabric softener, which can leave a residue that’s not baby-safe.
- Hand-washing: For toys that are too delicate for the machine, fill a basin with lukewarm water and a mild baby detergent. Gently scrub the toy with a soft cloth or brush, focusing on any spots or stains.
- Spot cleaning: If only small areas need cleaning, use a damp cloth with a small amount of baby-safe soap to gently wipe the toy clean. Avoid soaking plush baby toys, especially those with sewn-in noise makers or other features.
Step 3: Dry and Sanitize the Plush Baby Toy
Here’s the final step!
After cleaning your toy, the next step is to dry it properly. If you’re cleaning it for your little one, you’ll also want to ensure it’s sanitized for their safety. Correct drying techniques are essential to maintain the toy’s shape and softness while eliminating any remaining germs.
There are two main methods of drying:
- Air-dry the toy: Lay the plush toy flat on a clean, dry towel, reshaping it gently to its original form. Allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight which can fade colors and degrade fabrics. Ensure it’s completely dry before returning it to your child.
- Use the dryer with caution: If the care label permits, you can use a dryer on a low-heat setting. Place the toy in a pillowcase to protect it and prevent any potential damage from tumbling. Monitor the drying process closely to avoid overheating.
Once it’s dry, then you can move onto sanitizing it.
Consider using a baby-safe disinfectant spray or placing the toy in the freezer for a few hours to kill any lingering germs or dust mites. If you choose the freezer method, be sure to let it thaw and dry completely before letting your baby play with it again.
A Fresh Start for Your Plush Friends
By following these simple three steps, you can keep your plush baby toys clean, safe, and cuddly for you or your little one.
By the way, regular cleaning not only helps to eliminate germs and allergens—it also preserves the soft texture and shape of your beloved companions. Whether it’s a cherished keepsake or a favorite toy for your child, maintaining their cleanliness ensures they continue to provide comfort and joy for years to come.