How To Clean Stuffed Toys

Stuffed animals can take a lot of abuse, but can also breed bacteria and nastiness. keep them looking (and smelling!) their best with the instructions below. You may need to perform only the first couple steps if your toy is only lightly soiled. Otherwise, consider performing all five steps.
What You’ll Need

• Soft cloth
• Vacuum cleaner or lint roller (optional)
• Brush
• Laundry detergent
• Washing machine
• Zippered pillowcase
• Baking soda (optional)

Give those Stuffed Animals a Bath

• Surface clean first to remove dust - If you use a vacuum, do not use the short- or long-pile adjustment.
• Be careful not to vacuum up any accessories that may be attached to the toy.
• Check for spots and stains - Mix 3-tbsp. dish soap with 1/4-tsp. ammonia and 3/4-c. water. Whisk the solution and apply only the froth to the affected areas. Wipe off with a damp cloth.
• Mix 1/4-c. water with 1/2-c. rubbing alcohol and 1/2-tsp. dish soap. Whisk the solution and apply only the forth to the affected areas. Wipe off with a damp cloth.
• Machine wash - Do not washing old or delicate toys in the washing machine. To remove odor, you can try placing them in a paper bag with some baking soda. Shake the bag until the toy is covered and let sit 30 minutes.
• You may then brush the baking soda off with a towel.
• Do not place very large toys (over 18 in.) in the washing machine.
• Do not wash any toys that are stuffed with fiberfill or foam beads, stuffed very densely, or contains paper or plastic stiffeners or joints.
• Remove toys from the washing machine, brush, and air dry.
• Maintain your toys and keep them looking new