Stuffed animals are our children's faithful companions (and sometimes adults' too, let's admit it!). But over time, they accumulate dust, stains, and small dirt. Fortunately, washing a plush in a machine is often possible, provided you follow a few precautions to prevent it from losing its softness, shape, and colors.
In this article, we explain everything: how to safely wash plushes in a machine, the mistakes to avoid, and the good tips to keep your comforters clean and fluffy!
We will also detail how to wash particularly fragile plushes, and some alternative methods for large plushes that cannot be machine washed.
You will thus learn how to best preserve your and your children's favorite plushes, so that they remain as soft and comforting as on the first day!
Can You Machine Wash a Plush?
Yes, fortunately, most plushes can go in the machine, but it's always best to check the label before starting. Some models, especially those containing electronic or musical elements, must be hand-washed. Here are a few points to consider:
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Classic plushes made of cotton or polyester generally tolerate machine washing.
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Musical or electronic plushes should not be submerged in water. They will therefore need to be hand-washed.
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Stuffed animals with accessories (buttons, bows, sequins) should be washed with caution.
When in doubt, always opt for hand washing to avoid any risk of damage.
Also Read: Children's Plushes: Why Choose La Pelucherie?
How to Machine Wash a Plush Safely?
When it comes to cleaning a precious plush, it is essential to follow a few steps to preserve its softness and fluffiness before putting it in the machine. A wrong method or washing program could lead to deformation, hardening of the fabric, or loss of color.
To avoid these inconveniences, here are the tips to follow for optimal machine washing!
Read the Label Carefully First!
Before putting your plush in the washing machine, it is essential to read the label carefully, because washing instructions vary depending on the materials used.
Some plushes, like those from La Pelucherie, are designed for machine washing, while others, especially those containing electronic elements, special fillings, or fragile accessories, require delicate hand cleaning.
In addition, the label will indicate the maximum tolerated temperature as well as specific recommendations for spinning and drying.
If the label indicates that the plush cannot be machine washed, don't panic! We will explain later in this article how to wash a plush that cannot be machine washed.
1. Prepare the Plush Before Washing
Before putting your plush in the washing machine, here are some important tips to protect it well:
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Check the label to see if it is machine washable.
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Brush it gently to remove dust and crumbs.
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Inspect the seams: if they are fragile, it is better to opt for hand washing.
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Place the plush in a pillowcase or a laundry bag to protect it.
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Remove any batteries or electronic components if possible.
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For very dirty plushes or those with large difficult stains (grease, chocolate, etc.), a hand pre-wash with a mild soap can be useful.
2. Choose the Right Washing Program
If you want your plush to come out clean and still as fluffy, it is important to choose an adapted washing program!
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Temperature: generally, 30°C maximum to preserve the softness of the plush.
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Spin cycle: delicate or low (400-600 revolutions/minute) to prevent it from deforming.
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Detergent: Opt for a mild and hypoallergenic detergent.
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Fabric softener: Avoid it, as it can alter the fibers of your plushes' fabric.
If the plush is particularly fragile, choose a specific program for delicate textiles or wool.
3. Drying: Air Dry or Machine Dry?
Once the plush is washed, it must be dried thoroughly to prevent mold and preserve its softness. Here are two suitable methods:
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Air dry: Place the plush on a clean towel and put it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Turn it regularly for even drying.
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Tumble dry: Use a "cold air" or "delicate" program and place the plush in a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it. You can also add a clean towel to absorb moisture more quickly.
Also Read: How to Find the Ideal Birth Comforter for Baby!
What If Your Plush Cannot Be Machine Washed?
Sometimes, washing a plush in a machine is simply not an option. Either it is too fragile and might lose its softness, or it is so large that it won't fit in any machine!
Don't panic, there are two solutions for your comforter to regain all its cleanliness and fluffiness: hand washing or dry cleaning.
1. Hand Washing: The Gentle Method
If your plush is delicate or if its label prohibits machine washing, a good hand bath is the best option. Use lukewarm water, a mild detergent, and a washcloth to gently rub without damaging the fabric. Rinse thoroughly, gently squeeze to remove excess water, and let air dry on a clean towel.
2. Dry Cleaning: The Trick for Precious Plushes
If your plush cannot tolerate water or is very old, opt for dry cleaning! Sprinkle it generously with baking soda, let it sit for a few hours, then gently brush or vacuum. This method is ideal for refreshing and deodorizing without risk of alteration.
Also Read: Care Tips to Pamper Your Giant Plush!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Plush Be Washed in a Machine at 60°C?
No, most plushes cannot withstand such a high temperature. Opt for a wash at 30°C maximum.
Too high a temperature risks damaging the fabric fibers, shrinking the plush, or altering its colors. In addition, some synthetic fillings can lose their fluffiness and flatten under the effect of heat. For effective but gentle washing, 30°C is the best option to preserve the quality and softness of your plush.
How to Wash a Musical Plush in a Machine?
Musical plushes should not be submerged, as water could damage their electronic components. It is better to clean them on the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap.
For a deeper clean, use a sponge lightly soaked in soapy water, avoiding electronic areas. Then, dry immediately with a clean cloth and let air dry to prevent any moisture infiltration.
Can a Plush Go in the Dryer?
Yes, but only with a cold air program and by putting it in a laundry bag. This protects the fabric fibers and prevents any deformation due to heat.
For best results, add a clean towel to the drum to absorb excess moisture and minimize friction. Also, remember to take the plush out as soon as the cycle ends to let it finish air-drying.
Also Read: 50 Animal Plushes for Kids and Adults!
How Often Should a Plush Be Washed?
It depends on its use! If the plush is often cuddled, dragged everywhere, or in contact with potentially dirty surfaces, it is recommended to wash it more often. For example, if your child sleeps with their plush every day or often takes it outside, a monthly wash is recommended to prevent the accumulation of germs and allergens.
However, decorative or less used plushes can be washed every 4 to 6 months.
How to Prevent the Plush From Losing Its Softness After Washing?
To preserve the softness of your plush when machine washing, opt for a mild and hypoallergenic detergent, avoid fabric softener, and ensure gentle or air drying.
You can also lightly brush the plush after drying with a soft-bristled brush to restore its fluffiness.
Should Plushes Be Disinfected?
It depends! If it's your child's favorite comforter and they are sick or have a cold, disinfecting it can be a good idea. A wash with a 30°C cycle is usually sufficient.
For a more thorough disinfection, you can spray a textile disinfectant spray suitable for toys or use a steam cleaner to eliminate bacteria without chemicals.
Also Read: Should New Baby Plushes Be Washed? How to Disinfect Them and Maintain Their Cleanliness.
Conclusion
Washing a plush in a machine is easy as long as you follow a few simple rules: choose the right program, protect the plush, and dry it well. With these tips, your comforters will remain clean and soft as on the first day!
And if you are looking for a new soft plush to expand your collection, discover our exclusive selection on La Pelucherie!
Feel free to share your own tips and experiences in the comments! If you have any questions about washing your plushes, ask them here and we will be happy to answer!