A Guide On: How To Wash Soft Toys In A Washing Machine
Every child’s best companion is a soft toy. Stuffed toys, on the other hand, may take a lot of abuse and can gather dirt, germs, and bacteria, so keeping them clean is crucial to safeguard your child from playing with something that could be harmful to her health.
Washing soft toys in a washing machine is one of the most effective ways to clean soft toys fast and efficiently. It is because the soft toys can be hand washed or even spot cleaned to appear clean, many parents tend to wonder if they can be laundered in the washing machine.
Some people ask if is it possible to wash or perhaps how to wash soft toys in the washing machine. Yes, the answer is yes. Washing soft toys in a washing machine can be a convenient way to clean them, but it is important to do it properly to avoid damaging the toys.
Step-by-step guide on how to wash soft toys in a washing machine
Here are the materials you will need to wash the soft ways in the washing machine
- Soft toys.
- A laundry bag or pillowcase.
- Mild detergent.
- Stain remover (if needed).
- Cold or lukewarm water.
- Fabric softener (optional).
- Dryer sheets (optional).
Instruction that can help in removing the dirt from the soft ways
Step#1: Read the Care Label: Before you start, check the care label on the soft toys. Some toys may have specific washing instructions, including temperature recommendations or whether they should be hand washed instead.
Step#2: Remove Loose Debris: Shake or gently brush the soft toys to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris. This will help prevent the washing machine from getting clogged.
Step#3: Pre-treat Stains: If there are any visible stains on the toys, apply a stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water to the stained areas. Gently rub the stain with a soft cloth or brush.
Step#4: Prepare the Toys: Place the soft toys inside a laundry bag or a pillowcase. This helps protect them from potential damage during the washing cycle and prevents small parts or loose threads from getting tangled in the machine.
Step#5: Select the Right Settings: Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause colors to fade or materials to shrink. Also, set the machine to a slow spin speed to minimize stress on the toys.
Step#6: Add Detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent to the washing machine. Using too much detergent can leave residue on the toys, so be cautious. If you are washing several toys, use about half the detergent you would use for a regular load of laundry.
Step#7: Start the Wash Cycle: Place the bag or pillowcase with the soft toys inside the washing machine and start the wash cycle. Let the machine complete the entire cycle.
Step#8: Rinse and Repeat if Necessary: If the toys are still soiled after the first wash cycle, you can run them through another cycle. However, make sure to avoid over-washing, as this can wear out the toys.
Step#9: Remove and Rinse: Once the washing cycle is complete, remove the toys from the bag or pillowcase. Check for any remaining detergent residue by rinsing the toys under cold running water until the water runs clear.
Step#10: Dry the Toys: The best way to dry soft toys is to air-dry them. Place them on a clean towel or rack and let them dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight or high heat sources, as these can damage the toys. You can also use a fan to speed up the drying process.
Step#11: (Optional): Use Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets: If you like, you can add a small amount of fabric softener to the final rinse cycle to make the toys feel softer. You can also use dryer sheets in the dryer to help fluff and soften the toys, but use them sparingly.
Step#12: Fluff and Restore: After the toys are completely dry, gently fluff them and reshape them as needed. This will help them regain their original shape and appearance.
Remember that not all soft toys are machine washable, so always check the care instructions or labels before attempting to clean them in the washing machine. If in doubt, hand washing or spot cleaning may be a safer option for delicate or valuable soft toys.
While surface washing might make it harder to remove hard spots on toys, harsh chemicals such as ammonia can remove stains but cause color fading. So, the next time you plan to wash your soft toys, use a washing machine to ensure thorough cleaning. This step-by-step guide will help you know how to wash soft toys in the washing machine.
Cleaning the soft toys increases their lifespan
Washing soft toys in the machine not only saves time for other chores but also gives more effective cleaning than hand washing or spot cleaning. One of the most significant advantages of using a washing machine to clean soft toys is that it is one of the most basic, easy, and effective methods of achieving promising results.
It is said that cleaning soft toys increases their life span. Washing your soft toy in the washing machine helps to refresh it and keep it looking new. As a result, the soft toy’s life is increased, allowing it to last longer.
Pro Tip: To get rid of toy mites discovered on toys, place the soft toy in the freezer overnight. The mites may struggle to survive if the freezer is kept open. Although freezing the toy does not kill all of the mites, placing it in the washing machine after taking it from the freezer will help wash away any dead mites and their droppings.
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The Bottom Line
Machine cleaning your soft toys is quick and easy, and it is no longer a chore. Apart from keeping the soft toy clean and fresh, it also aids in the removal of bacteria and germs that could otherwise threaten your child’s health. So, the next time you consider washing your soft toys, use a washing machine for the greatest results.