Plush toys become the first best friend of a child. Whether it’s hugging at bedtime or role-playing during the day, plush toys are always there in the corner.
Since children tend to handle plush toys quite frequently, hugging them, carrying them, and even taking them out for a walk, dust, dirt, and germs tend to accumulate on plush toys. Proper care of plush toys is essential not only to keep them clean and fluffy but also to keep your child in a clean environment.
Most parents tend to forget the frequency at which stuffed toys ought to be cleaned and the gentleness with which they ought to be handled. By taking a few easy steps, one can ensure the longevity of their kid’s favorite stuffed toy and make it safe for kids to play with.
Whether it is your child’s favorite teddy bear, cartoon character, or bedtime bunny, learning how to take proper care of plush toys can help you preserve not only the plush toy but also the comfort it provides to your child every day.
Here are some ways you can take care of your child’s plush toy;
1. Check the Care Label
The first step before cleaning any plush toy is to look at the care label. Most stuffed toys, such as the unicorn plush, have small tags that provide guidance on how they should be cleaned. The labels may indicate whether the plush toy is fit for machine washing, hand-washing, or requires spot cleaning only. Some plush toys contain delicate fabrics, electronic components, or special fillings that can be damaged by water or heat.
In addition to that, accidental damage can be prevented by reading the care label. Some toys shrink in hot water while others lose their shape in a dryer. Others may need to be handled gingerly because they are made with stitched accessories or glued adornments.
If the label has faded or been removed, it is always safer to consider the toy as delicate. In such cases, hand washing or spot cleaning is usually advisable. Spending a few seconds to revisit these instructions can often save one’s beloved toys from unnecessary damage.
2. Wash Plush Toys Regularly
Children’s plush toys are exposed to a lot of contact every day. They may be taken to the park, placed on the floor, or even dragged along during outdoor adventures. Over time, this exposure allows dust, bacteria, and allergens to build up in the fabric.
Washing plush toys regularly helps maintain cleanliness and reduces the spread of germs. A good rule of thumb is to clean frequently used toys at least once every few weeks. Toys that stay mostly on a shelf may require less frequent cleaning, but they should still be washed occasionally to remove dust.
3. Use Gentle Detergent
When washing your plush toys, the type of detergent used needs to be considered. This is because detergents contain harsh chemicals that have an effect on the type of material your plush toys are made of. For this reason, gentle detergents should be used because the chemicals can adversely affect the child’s skin. Gentle detergents are essential because they wash your plush toys without affecting the material.
4. Spot Clean Small Stains
Not every plush toy needs a full wash every time it gets dirty. For small stains or spills, spot cleaning can be a quick and effective solution. This method targets the affected area without soaking the entire toy.
To spot clean, dampen a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Lightly dab the stained area rather than scrubbing harshly. Scrubbing too aggressively may damage the fibers or spread the stain further.
5. Air Dry When Possible
Drying plush toys properly is just as important as washing them. High heat from dryers can shrink fabric, damage stitching, or cause stuffing to clump together. Whenever possible, air drying is the safest method.
After washing, gently squeeze out excess water without twisting the toy too hard. Then place it on a clean towel and reshape it carefully. Allowing the toy to dry naturally helps maintain its original shape and softness.
6. Use a Laundry Bag for Machine Washing
If the care instructions on the plush toy suggest it can be machine-washed, then the use of a laundry bag is highly recommended. A laundry bag provides an extra layer of protection during the washing cycle.
Additionally, plush toys are mixed with other clothes inside the washing machine. The motion of the washing machine may cause the seams to come apart or the accessories to detach. The use of a laundry bag keeps the plush toy secure, protecting it from frictional force.
Wrapping Up
Plush toys hold a special importance for children as they provide children with comfort, company, and maximum entertainment. Because these beloved toys are handled so frequently, keeping them clean and well cared for is essential. Simple steps like checking the care labels, washing the plush toys regularly, using gentle washing agents, and spot cleaning stains can go a long way in enhancing the quality of the plush toys.
Appropriate drying techniques and gentle washing of the plush toys can also help them have a longer lifespan. In this way, the plush toys will always remain soft and safe for children to play with. With proper care and attention, parents can keep their favorite playmates in the best possible manner. By adopting proper cleaning habits, you can ensure the health of your child as well as the plush toys.