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3 Quick-Drying Methods for Washing and Air-Drying Your Stuffed Toys

Introducing the ultimate guide to washing and drying your beloved stuffed toys with ease! Say goodbye to the tedious task of cleaning your plush friends and embrace these three simple yet effective methods. Learn the secrets to a quicker and more efficient cleaning process, ensuring your stuffed toys are fresh and clean in no time!

Administrator

11 July, 2024

Plush toys with an outer fabric layer, usually a water-absorbent velvet or fur fabric, and a highly absorbent inner sponge layer, can be a real nightmare to wash. They’re difficult to clean and take ages to dry.

Check out these three alternative washing methods below to make this chore a little easier.

Method 1: Hand Washing

Hand wash your plush toys

This method is best for medium to small-sized toys that aren’t too soft and don’t have stubborn stains in hard-to-reach places like tails or underarms.

Step 1: Mix a mild detergent with warm water, adding a spoonful of fabric softener for better results.

Step 2: Soak the toy in this mixture for 10-15 minutes. Then, start scrubbing by hand or using your feet, but avoid using a brush as it may damage the toy.

Step 3: Rinse the toy thoroughly with cold water, and squeeze out the excess water by pressing gently from top to bottom. Avoid twisting or wringing the toy to preserve its shape.

Step 4: Dry the toy in a sunny and well-ventilated area to speed up the drying process.

Method 2: Machine Washing

Machine washing a plush toy

This method is more suitable for larger toys to save you time and effort.

Step 1: Sew up any rips or tears on the plush toy to prevent further damage.

Step 2: Place the toy inside a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction with the washing machine. Select a gentle cycle and avoid using hot water as it may damage the glue holding the toy together.

Step 3: Once the cycle is complete, dry the toy in direct sunlight to speed up the drying process.

Method 3: Dry Cleaning with Baking Soda

Dry cleaning with baking soda

This method is ideal for toys with electronic components or those that are too soft to be washed as they may lose their shape.

Step 1: Sprinkle baking soda all over the toy, focusing on stained areas.

Step 2: Place the toy inside a large plastic bag or a pillowcase.

Step 3: Shake the bag vigorously for about 5 minutes, and then let it sit for another 10-15 minutes to allow the baking soda to work its magic.

Step 4: Remove the toy from the bag, brush off any excess baking soda, and use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining residue.

With these quick-drying methods, we hope that you’ll no longer struggle with cleaning your beloved plush toys.

Frequently asked questions

There are several quick-drying methods you can use. You can use a salad spinner to remove excess water, then air-dry them with a fan or hair dryer on a low setting. You could also consider using a tumble dryer on a gentle cycle, or even try vacuum packing to squeeze out the water and air.

To air-dry your stuffed toys, first, ensure they are not dripping wet and only slightly damp. Then, place them in a well-ventilated area with good airflow. Using a fan can speed up the process. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause fading and damage to the toys.

Yes, you can use a tumble dryer, but it is important to use a gentle cycle and low heat setting. Higher temperatures can damage the toys, and a gentle cycle will ensure they are not tossed around too vigorously.

To prevent musty smells, ensure the toys are not left damp for extended periods. Drying them quickly is key. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the water when rinsing the toys, or use scented dryer sheets if using a tumble dryer.

The vacuum packing method involves placing the damp stuffed toy inside a vacuum bag and using a vacuum sealer to remove the air and squeeze out the water. This method can be very effective, but ensure you use a low-speed setting to avoid damaging the toys.