Use a damp cloth without soap and wipe the stuffed animal all over. I am sixty six and have leukemia. Place it in the dryer on the lowest heat setting for around 5 minutes. Upholstery or carpet stain remover may also be used. I washed my dog's teddy bear (about 24" long) in the washer, not knowing that he had a hole in his tummy. Will magic marker marks decrease the value of the beenie if I leave it the way it is? Don't scrub too hard on the stuffed animal surface. All worked. $7.99 $ 7. Don't use fancy scented or dyed soaps with color because it can be transferred to the rubber or plastic. Do contact Manufacturer for care instructions, Do test cleaning products or alcohol solvents very carefully, Do use anti-bacterial wipes for emergency sanitizing, Do use hair-dryer for drying surface cleaning, Do dry in sunshine to sterilize for fresh smell, Do clean soiled plush stuffed toys before storing, Don't use fancy dyed soap for spot cleaning, Don't immerse plushes that are battery operated, Don't use products with formaldehyde, phosphates, ammonia, phenols and other harsh chemicals, Don't leave wet plushes out to air dry...they will mildew. 99. Yeah, pretty clever huh! Just sprinkle the baking soda on the stuffed animal and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Baby Powder will work fine also as it has cornstarch in it. Most of the time crayon or pencil can be easily be cleaned with a mild soap and warm water or Clorox Wipes. Do not shake the bag too vigorously if you feel your animal will come apart. Replace soundbox, if any. They are getting very grungy bringing them everywhere, dropping, spilling, etc. To wash a stuffed animal or doll by hand, you need three things: A clean space that can hold enough water to fully submerge the toy, like a kitchen or utility sink, or a large bucket. It seems daunting if you have never cleaned one before, but it’s rather easy to do, with either your trusty washing machine or by hand. Stuffed animals may give off the illusion of fragility, but those little guys tend to go through a lot. Approved. Apply this mixture directly to the marker stain and let it sit for a moment or two. Rub a slightly damp cloth over the surface of the stuffed animal. You could, but it may ruin the fabric or material it is made from. Stuffed animals are popular with kids of all ages, so it is important to know how to properly clean them. If you go with detergent, a teaspoon or so will do, depending on the size of the stuffed animal. These stuffed plush toys can't be machine washed, especially with the valuable hang tag that's attached. But I'm here to help. For information on how to clean your stuffed animal by hand and dry it safely, scroll down! If there isn't a hospital in your area, then check the link at the bottom of this page for "Teddy Bear Hospital.". Older animals may easily fall apart if mishandled. Use cold water, the genle cycle, and mild laundry detergent, such as Woolite, for cleaning stuffed animals Place the stuffed animal in a pillowcase and tie it shut before washing -- this does two things: (1) it helps protect the stuffed animal's "fur"; and (2) helps you gather the pieces if … disinfectant in washer on delicate cycle with gentle detergent. 2010-07-02 21:01:56. Never use a high-powered laundromat machine. Last Updated: September 23, 2020 Help your child create their very own army of plush animals for a great set of soft collectibles. All suggestions on cleaning and method of drying have worked. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 185,899 times. I've been selling plush stuffed toys on eBay for 9 years. Then simply brush it off. All you need to do is wet the magic eraser slightly, then use it to scrub the permanent marker stain from the surface. Make sure to always read the label so it won't get ruined or fall apart. Asked by Wiki User. I never know what hubby is bringing home for me to list. Put the stuffed animal in a sheet before washing to help avoid parts getting stuck in the washer. — An upholstery cleaner can be used for stuffed animals that cannot be put in … It is always best to consult an expert before repairing or restoring a vintage or antique plush yourself. Recently, it was a large quantity of stuffed toys, so I have had to learn about cleaning, repairing and listing toys. You really don't know if the toy is clean or not, particularly when buying online, unless you ask (or if it's listed in the description). Set it on knits/blends (or low/low) setting, small load 2. Don't wait until you actually see dirt on a stuffed plush toy before you wash it. 3 4 5. The cloth material can hold a large amount of dust in it. Give the bag a good shake and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before brushing off the excess baking soda. With that said, machine washing will be a great choice for most parents looking to clean their children’s stuffed animals (or kids looking to clean their parent’s stuffed animal!) The animal is wearing delicate clothing that is sewn permanently on and can’t be removed like a glittery dress or an easily broken crown. Find a cleaner that’s safe and works for you. Disinfect a washable toy by using a laundry sanitizer in the wash. Don't spray a stuffed animal with a disinfectant because the spray could ruin the animal's fur. Torn seams can be repaired, growlers and squeakers can be replaced or sometimes repaired, and careful cleaning can remove dirt and restore the fur to a soft fluffy feel. Use a very small amount of mild detergent, such as Woolite, or just use the vinegar solution you made. Plush collectible toys that are an investment, for example, TY Beanie Babies, Gund, Boyd's Bears, Steiff or Russ with tags, that you can't wash in the washing machine, try one of the methods that are listed here: You'll want to use cornstarch and baking soda. Dip a cloth or sponge in rubbing alcohol and dab first around the stain, then directly on it. The eyes can be replaced, noses and mouth threads replaced, paw pads replaced with like materials, ears and limbs can be replaced if missing, and joints can be re-done if they are loose. How to Clean Soft Toys That Can't Be Thrown in the Washing Machine. To remove the dreaded Magic Marker of any color, apply a little Clearasil on the marks and let it dry, then wipe it off gently. Thank you. Method 1: Washing Machine. If necessary, you may use a cloth and a mild detergent to spot clean them. Some are machine washable on a delicate cold cycle. ::shudder:: I can relate to your mouse dilemma and wanting the stuffed animal to be clean again! Note that chemical dry cleaning by your local dry cleaners is NOT recommended because of potential damage to the stuffed animal. Thanks! In order to clean a very old stuffed animal first you have to spend some time preparing. Then, use a hair dryer set on medium heat to dry. So I went the extra mile, experiencing much frustration with trial and error, and even ruining a few toys along the way. This will destroy bugs you may or may not see. On gentle cycle using warm or cold water, a washing machine will get your stuffed animals clean without ruining them. Question: I have ty beanie babies. Wash plush toys in cold water using a mild detergent. Dust them off periodically with a clean, soft cloth. NOTE: If the toys have a little odor to them, switch up the salt and use baking soda instead. Find a way to seal the hole (or temporarily stuff a rag or other item in it) to keep stuffing from coming out, then dry it in the dryer. There are links at the bottom of this page to help you even more. By consulting online, you may be asked to send the toy for a hospital stay, so be sure to ask about shipping. The first step in cleaning a stuffed animal is to check the manufacturer's instructions. After washing, place the plush in the dryer on medium heat. ", http://www.mamaslaundrytalk.com/how-to-wash-stuffed-animals/, http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-stuffed-animals-199116, http://www.metrokids.com/MetroKids/January-2010/A-Spore-To-Abhor/, स्टफ़्ड एनिमल या टैडी को साफ करें (Clean a Stuffed Animal), consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Stuffed animals are like real animals. Any other instructions should be followed carefully to avoid damage. You can also use the hose attachment on a vacuum cleaner or a lint roller. The time depends on the size of the plush; small 20 minutes, medium 30 minutes and large 40-50 minutes. Prices for cleaning and repairs vary, so you may want to contact a Plush or Doll hospital in your area for an estimate before sending your lovey to the hospital. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. If your stuffed animal needs a more thorough cleaning and you've checked the label to be sure it's okay, run it through your washing machine. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. The methods are fast, easy and safe. I loved this article. For example, if a child is potty training and urinates on the toy, the insides may be soaked despite rinsing any visual signs of the stain away. I specifically look for toys that are from a smoke-free home with no pets and a clean environment. Most care labels instruct to hand wash, but after raising two kids and needing to deep clean their beloved friends, … Continue reading "How To Clean Stuffed Animals" Bring home a pet T-Rex or arctic fox, or go with the all-time favorite teddy. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. I found you on eBay and was not surprised to find you also wrote exceptional articles on SQUIDOO. It's not that bad, she is just a little dirty but because she is white it sort of shows. I rescued twenty boyds stuffed animals that had been exposed to a light rain and they have a mildew smell. See Answer. It's best to use a machine without an agitator. Authentic Beanie Babies always have tags attached to them. Do not pull too hard, or it will tear some of the fur from the animal. To freshen up your stuffed animal, put it in a garbage bag with a ½ cup of baking soda. — Use a soft scrub brush for badly soiled or stained areas along with the all purpose cleaner. I also have tips on maintenance for toys that are constant companions to children that are exposed to everyday drink spills, dust, dirt, germs and pet hair. Use a white washcloth or sponge to gently blot the stain. In order to clean a very old stuffed animal you have to have a special approach. Wash separately. Check your local Doll Hospital for prices or go online for more options. How to clean a balto plush/polyester stuffed animal - YouTube If you want, after you spray with cleaner, you can spray with air freshener. Like you, I want a child's toy as clean and sanitary as possible. How to clean stuffed animals? You may gently ring out your animal depending on its condition. For cleaning plush toys that can't be washed or you're just not sure how to clean them and want to be safe, use the surface dusting cleaning method. Better get on the ball huh? Ty manufactures a wide variety of teddy bears, dogs, cats, horses, crabs, tigers, seals, and much, much more! Instead of using a top loading machine, you could take a large load of laundry to a laundromat and wash your stuffed animal with that load. If your stuffed animal needs a more thorough cleaning and you've checked the label to be sure it's okay, run it through your washing machine. Most tags say surface wash. Your child may place the toy in her mouth so be sure that any cleaning agent is safe. If your dryer has a fluff air setting, use this to help maintain the fur. Take the bag outside and remove the stuffed toys and brush. Proper restoration and repair will not decrease the value of a collectible plush toy. These fabrics have a tendency to collect dust. Can't do that until I launder them. Place it in the dryer on the lowest heat setting for around 5 minutes. Stitch it first, as more water may become stuck inside, causing it to take much longer to dry, and also allowing some stuffing to get out. If a stain gets into the stuffing, germs and odors can linger. Add a little fabric softener to the rinse cycle. Mr. Pen- Polyester Fiber Fill, 10 oz, White, Pillow Stuffing, Stuffing, Pillow Filling Stuffing, Stuffing for Stuffed Animals, Poly Filling Stuffing, Cotton Stuffing, Pillow Filler, Pillow Filling. With sloths, foxes, horses, monkeys, hamsters, puppies and kittens, the stuffed animal range has just about any animal you’re looking for. When I buy in bulk from an estate sale, I'm not able to look at each one closely, so before I list a toy for sale, I check it thoroughly for cleanliness, stains, odors, missing parts, tags, etc. The tag says she is made with all new materials and stuffed with polyester fiber. A magic eraser is a special cleaning pad designed to remove stains from a wide variety of surfaces. Here are the best practices for that operation: Use the gentlest cycle available on your washing machine. After you take it out of the plastic bag, place it in the dryer on low heat or fluff. Spot-Clean. Don’t just spot clean in case the stain has penetrated beneath the surface. How can I get the magic marker off the beanie baby tags? soda on the stuffed animal and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Awesome! Always use a mild soap and plenty of water AFTER using chemicals to clean then blot dry with a soft cloth. After this process is done, take the toy outside and brush it lightly with a soft brush to remove the powder. Dress plush toy with clothes that were taken off and washed separately. Safe and fast plush cleaning for the busy parent. Hand washing would be ideal, if you have the time. Most home vacuum cleaners have a hose and brush attachment. I'm sure there'll be a cost for hospital stay plus the cost of the materials and doctor's fees. Periodically clean stuffed plush toys to remove harmful dust from them. The older the get, the more care they need. Choose from contactless Same Day Delivery, Drive Up and more. I can't guarantee that the plush toy will last forever, but it can't hurt to try by keeping it clean and refreshed. It may also be exposed to animals, insects or bacteria that have caused an odor. Most made in china and assuming that I can't sell them but would like to donate them. Give the bag a good shake and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before brushing off the excess baking soda. Make sure that items like eyes on the stuffed animal are secure before How to I dry way inside the stuffing? Mix one part baking soda with one part toothpaste in a small cup. In most cases a simple wash cycle in the washing machine would be enough to clean the stuffed animals … I've been selling plush stuffed toys on eBay for nine years. In my many experiments cleaning plushes with plastic or rubber faces, hands and feet, I finally found some very good methods for removing ink, crayon and pencil marks and yes, even Magic Marker! Vacuum with the drapery nozzle. AWESOME article. Can gerbils have stuffed animals stuffed with polyester fibers? To keep them looking good, the manufacturer recommends that they be wiped with a clean, damp cloth. I offer my expertise on cleaning for those buying or selling a used/vintage plush toy or doll from a yard sale, estate sale, rummage sale, flea market, thrift store, or one of the many auctions sites online. Here's how to do so. A regular hairbrush can be used, but it should have soft, widespread bristles. On each of the "butt" tags, there is a mark with black magic marker. You may also use unscented baby detergent with a damp cloth to spot clean. This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. % of people told us that this article helped them. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Wiki User Answered . In this case, machine washing is the most convenient way to clean a plush stuffed toy. Just go lightly over the stuffed animal with the brush. Stuffed animals are made with a polyester/cotton blend fabric. It is important to wash these delicate items by themselves on the gentlest cycle possible. Once a stuffed animal is dried, fluff up the fur gently with a brush. Remove accessories such as clothes, collars, or sound boxes. Plushes that can't be washed in a machine can be carefully cleaned with a vacuum cleaner that has a hose and attachments. If it's crayon or ink that's really etched in the plastic or rubber, then use alcohol, just don't get the alcohol on the doll's eyes as they will fade. Angela, yes, you’d better believe I’d wash that stuffed animal because I do NOT do rodents of any type. There are numerous cleaners that are marketed specifically for cleaning stuffed animals. Rub a small drop of diluted detergent on a hidden spot and if color comes off, use only water to spot clean the item. wikiHow's. Don’t use too much soap or it may be difficult to rinse off. For about6 years it's been out in our shed were it might have mildew in it. Did you know it’s perfectly safe to throw most stuffed animals in the washing machine? My favorite is the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. For information on how to clean your stuffed animal by hand and dry it safely, scroll down! I was told that if I put her in the wash then the stuffing would clump up. If the child can do without the toy for a day or 2 and if you have access to a freezer, then you may try placing the plush or soft toy or doll in a plastic bag and place it in the freezer for 42 hours. Top Answer. To freshen up your stuffed animal, put it in a garbage bag with a ½ cup of baking soda. First, know that the less they are … Always make sure both the inside and outside are dry to prevent mildew. In order to properly disinfect stuffed animals you will have to have an idea what you want to achieve. If the plush is a toy that is a constant companion and is played with every day, it is probably a sturdy, well-made, meant-to-be well-loved toy. If the animal needs stitching, should I stitch before or after I wash? With kids toting them around everywhere — and putting them through some inventive and strenuous playtime — stuffed animals tend to develop some wear and tear, and it may be unclear how to clean … Then simply brush it off. Just place your 100% polyester fiber pillow and blanket in the wash bag. Nathalie Roy from France (Canadian expat) on May 27, 2009: Great tips, I am favoriting it for later use. This is the method we recommend most-highly as it is the least destructive to the plush. You should see the ink transfer to the paper towel underneath the stain. Even better, use the vacuum cleaner. In this article, I share my methods of cleaning that I've researched and developed over the years. Over the past few years, the number of expert restorers has increased to meet the growing demand for time-ravaged and traumatized plushes. Grab a clean, slightly dampened cloth and use this to rub the mixture into the stain using circular motions. Even though the tag says surface wash, it may still be fine in a washing machine. ", "Photos of how to hand wash were very helpful.". See Link for Teddy Bear Hospital at the bottom of this page. After such events it is best to disinfect stuffed animals to keep them clean and safe. Make sure you use cold water only and … This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. In the beginning I had a difficult time trying to figure out how to clean and sanitize the toys so they would be presentable and clean to list on eBay. Consider how old the toy is and what materials it has been made out of. Shop Target for Polyester Fiber Stuffed Animals you will love at great low prices. Your article helped immensely. Wash on gentle cycle using little cool water liquid cleaner for delicates, or wool fabrics. If you like a soft, squishy pillow at night but can't afford it or are allergic to down, a polyester fiber-filled bed pillow may be your best choice.Polyester-filled pillows … References I don't always sell them, I also donate toys to a group of medical missionaries who give toys when they care for needy children. I also share tips for refreshing collectible investment toys that sit on a shelf or in a case that are dusty or have picked up odors. Spray the cleaner on the area to be cleaned and sponge off. For getting rid of odors, place in the dryer on the lowest heat setting for 5 minutes with a Snuggle DRYER SHEET. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Surface clean first to remove dust. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Moe Wood from Eastern Ontario on December 28, 2010: Excellent! * To keep dust off your stuffed animal, once a week use your vacuum cleaner. Now the stuffing way inside the hole is very wet. Pre-treat stains with a laundry stain remover. #2 Answer Use toothpaste mixed with baking soda. If the toy is very precious to you or your child, then you may want to have it professionally cleaned. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Some stuffed animals are made from synthetic fibers, so special care needs to be taken to brush them. Then, depending how the fur looks, brush it our using a clean hairbrush. Use soaps that are safe for both the material and your health. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Don't put your stuffed animal into the washing machine unless its tag says machine washable. My sons has quite a few push toys and I am always afraid to ruined them if I wash them. It’s very old, fur or limbs are falling apart, or it’s fragile to hold. I select the toys that I buy very carefully, however, there are times that I find an unusual toy that may need a little TLC. The more the dryer has in it, the less heat that will directly impact the stuffed animal. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Clean-a-Stuffed-Animal-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Stuffed-Animal-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Clean-a-Stuffed-Animal-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid1106964-v4-728px-Clean-a-Stuffed-Animal-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":484,"licensing":"