How to Safely Wash Your Plushies: A Step-By-Step Guide

Plushies and stuffed animals are companions that hold a special place in our hearts. Over time, these plush toys will accumulate dirt, dust, and odors. Properly washing them not only helps maintain their clean looks but also ensures their longevity. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of washing your GreezyBear plushies and stuffed animals safely, so you can keep them fresh, huggable, and ready for many more years of snuggles.

Step 1: Give the plushie a thorough examination

You need to identify any loose threads, tears, or delicate accessories such as buttons or ribbons. Repair any small damages before washing to prevent further harm. Depends on the condition of the plushie, you will proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Decide which cleaning method is suitable for your plushie

There are 3 options:

• Spot Cleaning/ Surface Cleaning is suitable for plushies containing eletronic parts. Normally these are plushies in our Interactive Plushies Collection. This cleaning method can be used for any plushies, even the most fragile one. You can also use this method when you only want to clean small stains or localized dirt.
• Machine Washing can be used for most of our plushie. This is a quick and easy method. Although there are still some rules you need to follow in order to safely wash your plushies. We will explain everything you need to know shortly.
• Hand Washing is suitable for older plushies, or for plushies with parts that are only glued on, not sewn. These plushies are more fragile, so they can't be put in a washing machine.

For spot cleaning:

1. Dampen a clean white cloth with a mixture of mild detergent and water.
2. Gently dab the affected area to remove the stain, avoiding excessive rubbing to prevent color fading or damage.
3. Blot the spot with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residual soap.

For machine washing:

1. Place the plushie or stuffed animal in a mesh laundry bag to protect it during the wash cycle. You can also use a pillow case and tie a knot at the top to add an extra layer of protection for your plushie.
2. Use a gentle cycle and cold water setting, and add a small amount of mild detergent.
3. Avoid using fabric softeners as they may leave a residue on the plushie.
4. Once the washing cycle is complete, remove the plushie from the mesh bag and proceed to the drying step.

For hand washing:

1. Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount mild detergent.
2. Gently submerge the plushie or stuffed animal into the water, avoiding any excessive rubbing or squeezing.
3. Use your hands to agitate the water, allowing the detergent to penetrate and loosen any dirt or stains. Then use your finger to gently rub the stain on the surface.
4. Pay extra attention to areas that are visibly soiled, such as the face, paws, or feet.
5. Once you're satisfied with the cleaning, drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean water for rinsing.
6. Rinse the plushie by gently swishing it in the clean water until all soap residue is removed. 
7. Squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing the plushie. Then blot it again with a clean towel.

Step 3: Drying the Plushie

Properly drying is crucial to prevent mold or mildew growth and maintain the plushie's shape. Here's how to ensure a safe drying process:

1. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can damage the plushie's material or cause it to shrink. Instead, wrap the plushie in a clean, absorbent towel and press gently to absorb moisture. Then let it air dry.
2. Lay the plushie flat on a clean, dry surface and reshape it as needed, gently stretching or fluffing to restore its original shape.
3. Ensure the plushie is completely dry. This process may take several hours or even overnight, depending on the plushie's size and material.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once the plushie or stuffed animal is dry, take a moment to groom it and restore its fluffiness:

1. Use a soft brush or comb to gently comb the plushie's fur or fabric, restoring its softness and appearance.
2. Pay extra attention to areas like the face, ears, and tail, where fur tends to mat or flatten. This grooming step helps maintain the plushie's overall aesthetic appeal and ensures a delightful hugging experience.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your cherished companions remain clean, fresh, and ready to provide comfort and joy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean vomit stain from my plushie?

Vomit can be tricky to clean, because there are bile, stomach acids, fats,... stuffs that normal detergent and water can't remove. But don't worry, we have covered this topic in this article. Check it out!

My baby was ill, should I clean his plushie?

A plushie can collect germs as easy as it collect dust. After a sick child or adult hold the plushie, you should definitely clean it to make sure that it is germ-free and protect yourself and your child from getting sick again.

How often should I wash my plushie?

If you keep your plushie on your bed, a good rule of thumb would be to clean it everytime your change your bed sheet. If you have allergies, you should wash the plushie every 1-2 weeks during allergies seasons.