Can You Wash Stuffed Animals That Say ‘Surface Wash Only’?
Many stuffed animals come with care labels that advise against washing, stating ldquo;Surface wash onlyrdquo;. This warning exists because not all stuffed animals can withstand washing in a washing machine. Understanding when and how to clean these plush friends can help ensure they remain in perfect condition for years to come.
Why the Label ldquo;Surface Wash Onlyrdquo; Exists
The label ldquo;Surface wash onlyrdquo; usually indicates that the stuffed animal is made of materials that are not machine washable. The filling material, the quality of construction, and the quality of the decorations (such as eyes, nose, and other accessories) all play a role in whether a stuffed animal can be safely washed.
General Care Instructions
For most stuffed animals, the care instructions are straightforward and involve a few simple steps:
Spot Cleaning:
If your stuffed animal has a stain or a dirty spot, you can use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap to gently clean the surface of the stuffed animal. Focus on any stained areas to maintain the overall condition of the toy. After cleaning, be sure to gently rinse the cloth with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Disinfecting:
For disinfection, you can use a mixture of water and a small amount of vinegar or a gentle disinfectant wipe to clean the surface. This method ensures that the stuffed animal remains hygienic without damaging it.
Drying:
After cleaning, allow the stuffed animal to air dry completely. Direct sunlight can cause fading, so avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for long periods. Once it is dry, you can gently brush the stuffing or fluff the fur to restore its texture.
Common Materials and Care
Stuffed animals can be made from a variety of materials. Knowing the material can help you determine the appropriate care method. Some common materials include:
1. Synthetic Fill:
Many modern stuffed animals are filled with synthetic material. These can often be spot cleaned or treated with a damp cloth. However, if the filling is made of plastic beads or other sensitive materials, they should not be soaked or placed in the washing machine.
2. Natural Fill:
Natural materials like cotton or wool are more susceptible to moisture and can be damaged if thoroughly soaked. These stuffed animals should only be spot cleaned and dried thoroughly.
Case Studies
From personal experience, we had a virtual ldquo;Zoordquo; of Beanie Babies over 20 years ago. These plush toys were designed to be ldquo;Surface wash onlyrdquo;. The fill material was made of small plastic beads, and the decorations were well-embroidered, not attached with glue. We washed them in a mesh laundry bag and placed them on a fixed ldquo;shelfrdquo; in the dryer to avoid direct tumbling, which could cause damage.
On the other hand, other stuffed animals filled with natural materials or those that swell when wet should not be washed, as they may lose shape or discolor. Additionally, poorly constructed stuffed animals with glued-on decorations that are barely tacked on with a few stitches should also be avoided from washing.
Conclusion
Itrsquo;s important to respect the care labels on stuffed animals to ensure their longevity. While machine washing is usually not advisable for ldquo;Surface wash onlyrdquo; items, spot cleaning and spot disinfecting can help maintain their cleanliness and hygiene. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your plush friends for years to come without worrying about potential damage.