At MyPlushBuddy, we recreate any picture, drawing, sketches, or shapes and give them the form of cute and soft custom-made plushies. We create custom-made plush toys tailored to make your little one jump up in joy!
How to Clean/Wash Stuffed Animals: A Guide from MyPlushBuddy
written by MyPlushBuddy Sep 20, 2024
We all have that one favourite stuffed buddy, whether it's a cherished gift or a fun custom plushie from MyPlushBuddy, made from your child’s artwork or even a mini version of yourself! Over time, these beloved toys can accumulate dust, dirt, or the occasional juice spill. So, how do you keep them clean without causing any damage? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the safest ways to clean and care for your stuffed animals, including custom plushies, Buddy Dolls, and more, to ensure they last for years.
What to Know Before Washing a Stuffed Animal
Stuffed animals come in all shapes and sizes, and each one can have different cleaning requirements based on the fabric, filling, and added elements like embroidered features or plastic parts.
1. Check the Label:
Always start by reading any care instructions on the tag. MyPlushBuddy products like our Buddy Dolls or custom plushies might have specific guidelines depending on the materials used. If there’s no label or it's faded, it's best to proceed cautiously.
2. Spot Cleaning is Your Friend:
For minor stains, spot cleaning is often the safest choice. Use a gentle, mild detergent mixed with water and apply it with a soft cloth or sponge. Lightly scrub the stained area and blot it dry. Avoid soaking the plush in water, as it may damage its shape or colour.
3. Use a Mesh Bag for Washing:
If the plushie is machine-washable, protect it by placing it in a mesh laundry bag. This minimizes friction with other clothes, reducing the risk of tearing. Use cold water and set the machine to a gentle cycle.
How and When to Decide a Wash is Needed
A good rule of thumb is to wash stuffed animals only when absolutely necessary. Excessive washing can wear down the fabric, fade colours, or alter the shape, especially in custom plush dolls or intricate pieces like our Buddy Dolls. But if your plush has been dropped outside, has visible dirt, or has an odor, it’s time for a wash.
Pro Tip: Consider giving your plushie a 'refresh' by lightly brushing it or airing it out on a sunny day to avoid frequent full washes.
How to Dry a Stuffed Animal
After washing your stuffed friend, drying is a crucial step to retain its shape and fluffiness.
1. Air Drying:
The safest method is to let the plush air dry. Lay it flat on a towel and press gently to absorb excess water. Avoid wringing the plush as it may distort its shape, especially if it’s a detailed design like our mini-me plushies.
2. Fluff with a Hair Dryer:
Once most of the water is gone, you can use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to fluff up the fur and speed up drying. This works particularly well for custom stuffed animals made from softer fabrics.
3. Avoid the Dryer:
Avoid using a tumble dryer as the heat can shrink the fabric or cause the filling to bunch up. However, if you must use a dryer, ensure it’s set to low or no heat and place the plush inside a pillowcase for added protection.
Keep Your Plushies Clean and Personalized!
At MyPlushBuddy, we create more than just toys – we create memories. Whether it’s a custom plush based on your child’s artwork or a personalized Buddy Doll, each product is crafted with care. To keep them in top condition, follow these cleaning tips, and your plushie will stay as soft and lovable as the day you got it!
Looking for a unique gift idea? Explore our range of custom plush toys, Buddy Dolls, and photo pillows today at MyPlushBuddy.com. Make your memories huggable!
