How to clean plush toys, and which cleaning method is better? Relevant experts have provided the following cleaning methods:
1. Take necessary measures according to size
When cleaning, take necessary measures based on the size of the plush or cloth toy.
Small toys can have their delicate parts protected with tape before proceeding with one of the cleaning methods below.
For large plush toys, locate the seam where the stuffing is inserted, cut the thread, and remove the stuffing (acrylic cotton). Special areas can remain untouched (to better maintain shape), cover delicate parts with tape, place the toy's outer layer in the washing machine for a gentle wash, spin dry, hang in a cool place to dry thoroughly, and intermittently gently pat the toy to make its fur and stuffing fluffy and soft. Then reinsert the stuffing into the toy’s outer layer, reshape it, and sew it back together.
2. Cleaning Methods
1) Coarse Salt Cleaning Method
Items needed: A bag of coarse salt (large-grained salt) and a plastic bag.
Place the dirty plush toy inside the plastic bag, add an appropriate amount of coarse salt, then tie the opening and shake vigorously. After a few minutes, the toy will be clean. The principle behind this is that salt (sodium chloride) has an adsorption effect on dirt. Since salt also has strong disinfectant properties, it not only cleans the toy but also effectively kills bacteria and viruses.
2) Baking Soda Cleaning Method
Items needed: A pack of baking soda.
Place the baking soda and the dirty plush toy inside a large plastic bag, tie the opening tightly, and shake forcefully. You will gradually notice the plush toy becoming cleaner. Finally, the baking soda powder turns gray-black due to absorbing dirt. Simply shake off the baking soda powder when done. This method is more suitable for larger plush toys and those with sound functions. When drying, gently pat the plush toy to restore its fluffiness and softness, allowing the toy to regain its original shape after cleaning.
3) Water Washing Cleaning Method
Items needed: Water, silk/wool detergent (or laundry powder, liquid detergent), and a soft-bristle brush.
In a basin, mix water and silk/wool detergent. Use a regular soft-bristle brush or other tool to stir the water and create abundant foam. Use the brush dipped in foam to scrub the surface of the plush toy clean, making sure the brush does not contain too much water. After scrubbing the surface of the plush toy clean, wrap it in a bath towel and press-wash it in a basin full of clear water.
For convenience, you can also protect the accessory parts of the plush toy with tape, place it in a laundry bag, and choose a hand-washing mode to wash it. This can thoroughly remove dust and detergent from inside the plush toy. Then soak the plush toy in a basin of water with fabric softener for a few minutes, and press-wash it several times in a basin full of clear water until the water changes from turbid to clear. Wrap the cleaned plush toy in a bath towel and place it in the washing machine for a gentle spin cycle to remove excess water. After reshaping and combing, let the plush toy dry in a well-ventilated area.
Note: Dry the plush toy in a ventilated place; avoid direct sunlight as it may cause discoloration. For plush toys, cloth toys, or dolls equipped with high-tech electronic components, chips, or speakers, always remove the electronic elements (some are not waterproof) or batteries before washing to prevent water damage.
After the plush or cloth toy is dried, use a clean comb or similar tool to comb its fur in the direction of the hair, making it smooth and attractive.