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 stuffed animal 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 stuffed animals 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 stuffed animals, and some alternative methods for large stuffed animals that cannot be machine washed.
You will thus learn how to best preserve your and your children's favorite stuffed animals, so that they remain as soft and comforting as on the first day!
Can You Machine Wash a Stuffed Animal?
Yes, fortunately, most stuffed animals 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 stuffed animals made of cotton or polyester generally tolerate machine washing.
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Musical or electronic stuffed animals 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 Stuffed Animals: Why Choose La Pelucherie?
How to Machine Wash a Stuffed Animal Safely?
When it comes to cleaning a precious stuffed animal, 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 stuffed animal in the washing machine, it is essential to read the label carefully, because washing instructions vary depending on the materials used.
Some stuffed animals, 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 stuffed animal cannot be machine washed, don't panic! We will explain later in this article how to wash a stuffed animal that cannot be machine washed.
1. Prepare the Stuffed Animal Before Washing
Before putting your stuffed animal 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 stuffed animal 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 stuffed animals 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 stuffed animal 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 stuffed animal.
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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 stuffed animals' fabric.
If the stuffed animal is particularly fragile, choose a specific program for delicate textiles or wool.
3. Drying: Air Dry or Machine Dry?
Once the stuffed animal 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 stuffed animal 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 stuffed animal 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 Stuffed Animal Cannot Be Machine Washed?
Sometimes, washing a stuffed animal 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 stuffed animal 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 Stuffed Animals
If your stuffed animal 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 Stuffed Animal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Stuffed Animal Be Washed in a Machine at 60°C?
No, most stuffed animals 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 stuffed animal, 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 stuffed animal.
How to Wash a Musical Stuffed Animal in a Machine?
Musical stuffed animals 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 Stuffed Animal 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 stuffed animal out as soon as the cycle ends to let it finish air-drying.
Also Read: 50 Animal Stuffed Animals for Kids and Adults!
How Often Should a Stuffed Animal Be Washed?
It depends on its use! If the stuffed animal 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 stuffed animal 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 stuffed animals can be washed every 4 to 6 months.
How to Prevent the Stuffed Animal From Losing Its Softness After Washing?
To preserve the softness of your stuffed animal 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 stuffed animal after drying with a soft-bristled brush to restore its fluffiness.
Should Stuffed Animals 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 Stuffed Animals Be Washed? How to Disinfect Them and Maintain Their Cleanliness.
Conclusion
Washing a stuffed animal in a machine is easy as long as you follow a few simple rules: choose the right program, protect the stuffed animal, 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 stuffed animal 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 stuffed animals, ask them here and we will be happy to answer!