Soft toys are not only our children's favorite friends, but also real collectors of dust and dirt.
Over time, stuffed animals become dirty and need to be thoroughly cleaned to remain safe for play and cuddling.
A washing machine can be a useful tool in this process, but it is important to know how to properly wash soft toys so as not to damage them.
It is necessary to know the basic rules and recommendations for caring for soft toys in the washing machine.
Preparing toys for washing
Before you put your soft toys in the washing machine, you need to prepare them carefully.
First of all, inspect the toy for damage. If there are torn seams or missing parts, they need to be repaired first.
Damaged toys can be further damaged during the washing process, so it is best to fix any problems beforehand.
After this, you should check for batteries and electronic components. If the toy is musical or has a backlight, such elements must be removed, as they can be damaged by water. Toys with non-removable electronic elements are best washed by hand or using special cleaning products.
Choosing the right washing mode
When washing soft toys, it is important to select a delicate cycle. Washing machines usually have a delicate cycle that is ideal for this purpose.
This mode uses low water temperature and gentle spinning to help preserve the shape and structure of toys.
The water temperature should not be higher than 30 degrees. Hot water can cause shrinkage of the fabric and deformation of the filler, which will negatively affect the appearance and functionality of the toy.
For additional protection, you can use a special laundry bag or pillowcase in which to place the toy before washing. This will help to avoid mechanical damage.
Selection of detergents
For washing soft toys, use mild detergents without harsh chemicals and bleaches.
Baby powders or liquid gels for washing are ideal. They gently clean the fabric and do not cause allergic reactions, which is especially important if the toys are intended for small children.
You can also add a little fabric softener to make the toys soft and pleasant to the touch.
However, it is important not to overdo it with the amount of detergent, as excess detergent can remain in the fabric and cause skin irritation in children.
Drying soft toys
After washing, soft toys must be dried properly. Never dry them in a tumble dryer, as this may cause deformation and damage to the filling.
It is best to dry toys in the air, in a horizontal position. You can lay them out on a towel and turn them over periodically to ensure uniform drying.
It is not recommended to hang toys on a rope or place them on a radiator, as this may lead to stretching of the fabric and deformation of the shape.
To speed up the drying process, you can use a fan, directing the air flow towards the toys. This will help quickly and effectively remove moisture without harming the fabric and filler.
Additional tips and tricks
If soft toys are heavily soiled or stained, they can be pre-soaked in a mild detergent solution.
This will help remove stains and make the washing process much easier. After soaking, the toy should be rinsed thoroughly and put into the washing machine.
It is also worth paying attention to the presence of care labels on the toys themselves. Manufacturers often indicate the optimal washing and drying conditions that will help keep the toy in perfect condition.
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