A simple dirty teddy bear is a great source of attraction for trouble. The same teddy bear that smiles at your child also contaminates him with countless bacteria and particles. And from it can come serious complications.
A bear’s beady eyes or a stuffed rabbit’s long ears hide tiny but worrisome threats like mites and bacteria. And without proper care, they can develop serious diseases.
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Stuffed Animals: The Paradise Of Bacterias and Mites
Because stuffed toys are made of fabric they very easily attract dust, among other less positive and very harmful elements.
How Serious Are Mites?
As such, over time, dolls and stuffed animals become dirty and can accumulate thousands of mites (unwanted pets that love humid and warm environments) which can aggravate health issues such as rhinitis and asthma.
Plush toys go from one place to another as children moves it around and as they pass it from hand to hand and from mouth to mouth. And as you can imagine they can be an ideal source of contamination.
Toys in a Pediatric Hospital: Are They a Bacterial Source?
If you’ve been thinking about it, you’re right. Especially when the subject involves visits to hospitals and health centers, places which are supposed to keep viruses and bacteria from escaping.
Did you know that about 90% of all toys that serve as a distraction for children in the waiting room for an appointment have an alarming level of contamination?
If you thought a trip to the doctor with toys in hand would be harmless, know that the level of contamination during these situations is considered moderate to strong, according to scientists at the University of Otago, in the USA.
In hospitals and health centers, there are two bacterias considered particularly serious: the well-known E. coli, which is responsible for some of the most inconvenient gastrointestinal infections, and Streptococcus pneumonia (more resistant) which causes infections in the respiratory tract and ears.
The Solution
Regular cleanings, especially when returning from medical appointments. Well, the measure may not solve it, but it sure helps to prevent the spread of diseases.
What if the child suffers from more complicated respiratory problems, such as asthma and asthmatic bronchitis? Ideally, don’t have stuffed animals. However, and as we know they are toys loved by the little ones, there are ways to prevent them from accumulating mites.
How To Wash Teddy Bears Step By Step
Most toys today are made from hypoallergenic and washable materials. Even so, it is advisable to check the washing label and check the washing instructions and care.
This is especially important when it comes to delicate materials, or stuffed animals that contain buttons or embroidery.
The first tip is to separate. And, if you are going to wash them in the washing machine, as you do with clothes, put the plush toys aside according to the cleaning instructions. Those who are dry cleaning, respect and consider a professional service.
In case of doubt (and especially if it is a toy with sentimental value) always choose hand washing and avoid scratching.
How To Wash Teddy Bear Without Washing Machine
To wash a plush by hand, just use a basin with water and a small amount of detergent for delicate items (see instructions on the product package). Rub gently with your hands, then rinse thoroughly until no chemicals are present. Use a towel to remove excess water from the wash.
If the plush is bright or dark, we recommend drying it in the shade, in a well-ventilated place (so that the stuffing dries properly).
The extra tip is not to wash stuffed animals on rainy or humid days, which will compromise the drying process.
Can You Wash Stuffed Animals In The Washer?
Washing stuffed animals in the washing machine is as easy as it is practical. If the toy in question has stains (from food or juice, for example), just clean the affected area manually, with a specific product or even with laundry or dish detergent). Then rinse by hand and machine wash at a temperature not exceeding 60 degrees.
Once again, we remind you: you must separate the colored ones from the light ones, initially, until you are sure the colour does not bleed to the other pieces.
If there are accessories, remove them and wash them in a protective wash bag. If you don’t have one, use a pillowcase from your pillows. Tie a knot to protect it from the hustle of the washing machine.
Another way to avoid damage when washing soft toys is to select the delicate cycle.
Other Ways of Cleaning And Sanitizing Toys And Soft Toys
Freezer Technique
To reduce the risk of contamination there is a technique which is simple and effective; every two weeks put the stuffed toy in the freezer for 2 days. The intense cold will freeze the survivability of the bacteria.
Vacuum Cleaner Technique
This technique can be used more often. Vacuum the stuffed animals regularly so that they do not accumulate dust.
Baking Soda Technique
this is ideal for stuffed animals that aren’t too dirty. To start, moisten the plush with water and then rub the bicarbonate all over the surface, leaving it overnight in a plastic bag. The next day, simply remove the chemical, passing through plenty of water.
How To Dry Soft Toys Correctly
Now that you’ve learned how to wash stuffed animals, it’s enough to know that the way they dry is essential to the process. Whenever possible, and according to the washing instructions, you should let it spin to the maximum, in order to facilitate the drying process.
Then the next step is to hang it to dry:
- If it is dark in color, hang the stuffed toy in a well-ventilated and shady place.
- If it is light in color, let it dry in the sun.
Now that you know how to wash soft toys and prevent damage to the youngest’s favorite toys, just wash them and wait for your child to be happy with the result.
