How to Clean Your Child's Beloved Stuffed Animals (aka Germ Hotspots)

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How to Clean Your Child’s Beloved Stuffed Animals (aka Germ Hotspots)

by Jamie Smith

Updated: June 26, 2021

Originally Published: March 5, 2021

Stuffed animals — most of us have an abundance of them. It often seems like they multiply overnight. But our kids adore them, so what can we do? We’re stuck with these plush companions, for better or worse. However, those cherished toys are notorious for harboring germs. The question is, can you wash them safely? What if you toss your child’s favorite toy, Mr. Whiskers, into the washing machine and it comes out misshapen? You certainly don’t want to risk that, especially if you want to avoid a bedtime battle. So, if decluttering isn’t an option, how can we keep these toys clean and relatively germ-free? We’ve got the solutions! Let’s explore three effective methods for cleaning stuffed animals: machine washing, hand washing, and spot cleaning.

Before diving into the methods, let’s discuss some important considerations when washing different stuffed animals. First, plan your wash time wisely. Don’t toss them in just before bedtime hoping everything goes smoothly. If your child depends on Mr. Whiskers for a good night’s sleep, you’ll make bedtime 100 times harder. Similarly, avoid washing them during naptime. Always factor in the time required for washing and drying when preparing to clean a stuffed animal.

Next, consider the condition of the toy. Is it old, worn, or fragile? If so, hand washing is likely the best option to prevent potential damage. Also, does your child’s stuffed animal contain batteries? If yes, submerging it in water is a no-go. For these types of toys, spot cleaning is the way to go. Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore the three top methods for giving your child’s favorite toys a bath.

How to Machine Wash Stuffed Animals

If you decide to machine wash the stuffed animal, keep these tips in mind:

Check the care tag for specific washing instructions. If it’s missing, don’t worry — most stuffed animals are machine washable.
Use cold water on the gentlest cycle available.
Front-loading machines are preferable, but if using a top loader, place the toy in a zippered garment bag or pillowcase tied with a hair tie to protect any glued parts.
If the toy is particularly dirty, you can pre-treat it (just do a spot test first). Adding an oxygen booster or a bit of Lysol laundry disinfectant can be helpful as well.
Including a few towels in the load can provide extra cushioning during the wash cycle.
Avoid machine washing toys with delicate accessories, as they may not survive the wash.
Always air dry your stuffed animals, as they don’t fare well in the dryer.

How Often Should You Wash Stuffed Animals

Since your little one takes their stuffed animal everywhere — from the bathroom to the playground — it’s essential to wash it at least once a month. Regular cleaning helps reduce germs and allergens, keeping your family healthy. Those pesky dust mites can cling to toys just as they do to pillows. Thankfully, they can’t survive in water hotter than 130 degrees, so ensure the wash is set accordingly.

How to Hand Wash Stuffed Animals

Hand washing is ideal for fragile toys. Here’s how to do it:

Find a basin — a sink, dishpan, or bucket will work. Grab the stuffed animal and a washing agent, such as laundry detergent, dish soap, or baby shampoo. Aim for about one tablespoon of soap per gallon of water.
Set up your area and fill your basin. If necessary, lay down a towel to catch any splashes.
Gently submerge the stuffed animal in warm water, agitating it lightly before allowing it to soak.
After an hour, rinse the toy under cold running water until the soap is completely washed out. Be careful to squeeze the toy gently, avoiding any wringing that could cause damage.
Wrap the stuffed animal in a towel to absorb excess water and help it dry faster.
Finally, let it air dry, ideally in front of a fan or near an open window.

How to Spot Clean Stuffed Animals

For toys with batteries, spot cleaning is essential. Here’s a simple method:

Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of soap.
Dip a washcloth in the soapy water and gently dab the areas that need cleaning.
Allow the toy to air dry.

If your stuffed animal needs a little fluffing after cleaning, you can use a blow dryer on low heat to revitalize the fur. This technique can be applied after any of the cleaning methods mentioned above.

Cleaning Stuffed Animals That Can’t Get Wet

Sometimes you encounter stuffed animals that can’t be submerged. For these toys, you can freeze germs away:

Place the toy in a ziplock bag, ensuring it’s sealed tightly.
Put it in the freezer overnight or for at least three hours. This will kill the germs that thrive in warmth. Once defrosted, you can use a blow dryer to speed up the drying process.
Alternatively, if the toy isn’t visibly dirty, you can sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch into a plastic bag with the stuffed animal. Shake to absorb odors and dirt, then shake or vacuum out the excess.

Cleaning Old Stuffed Animals

If you have a family heirloom, like Mr. Whiskers, follow these steps to clean it while preserving its integrity:

Immerse the toy in cold water for 5-10 minutes to reduce the risk of rips.
Hand wash it with care, using detergent.
Avoid the dryer; let air dry instead.

This article was originally published on March 5, 2021.

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How to Clean Your Child’s Beloved Stuffed Animals (aka Germ Hotspots)