My oh my! Some of your children’s plush toys are begging for a serious makeover, yet you are afraid that you can ruin them by slapping them in the washing machine as some of your friends advised. Well, have no fear. Sometimes the washer and dryer version is not such a bad idea. You could be able to use it, just need to pay attention to labels. If the labels do not help, then other methods can be as effective. Here are the most squeaky clean methods we know of that work even on you sweetheart’s favorite toy.

Washing Machine and Dryer Method – Delicate but Strong Toys

Most toys will survive a normal washing machine wash. Typically labels will specify if they are not "washer" friendly. So, if nothing is specified, you should read it as, you could give it a try. The trick here, though, is to use a delicate cycle and a cold water option. To keep your teddy bears from coming out rough, use plenty of softener. Typically it wise to put just a few plush toys in at one, or maybe just a one or two at a time, if they are really big. This will avoid clutter and help keep the shape of the stuffed animal. When they are ready to go in the dryer, tumble dry low and again, make sure you add lots of dryer sheets. You do not want to accumulate and static, as all the dust will get right back on, as soon as they are cleaned.

At Home Dry Clean Method – A Bit More Delicate Toys

Many toys such as stuffed dogs, teddy bears, and plush cats have their eyes and noses made out of plastic, which makes them more difficult to clean. For those stuffed animals that are in a grey area, you can use heat to clean them. You will need to get a at home dry cleaning bag. Dryel or any other brand will do. Whatever you have handy, or whatever you can find at your local store. Then put a few toys inside the bag and put them in the dryer on low, or per the instructions on the label. They should come out smelling clean and fresh, and look just the same. This method is quick and also a safer way to clean toys which maybe have some plastic parts.

Air Vacuum Method – For Delicate Toys in Need of a Serious Makeover

If the toys are at code red, yet you do not want to use water or heat on them, then this method is the best. Also, some toys are flammable and running them in the dryer is a very, very bad idea. So when nothing else, yet dust has taken the best out of your toys, try this: put a few plush animals in a garbage bag so that they fit loosely. Then, to get all the dust out, use the hose attachment of your vacuum. Place it at the bag opening and lock it with your hand. Do not worry if you see the stuffed animals losing their shape. They will come back to normal as soon as you shut off the vacuum. When they are all done, spray them with some fabric spray to give them a fresh smell. This method is very effective, yet could be tricky. Do not use it on small stuffed animals, as they might get sucked in the vacuum.

Hand Wash Method – The Delicate Measure for Delicate Toys

Now, if you want to be completely safe, the best way is the old fashioned-way: hand washing. Here you have the flexibility of either working only certain spots, or carefully washing your entire stuffed animal. For example, you can soak your stuffed dog, in some water with detergent, for about 10 to 20 minutes, then scrub the parts that need attention. Rinse the stuffed dog thoroughly, wring out all the water and then let it air dry. If you want to clean only certain parts, to avoid getting the entire plush animal wet, you can use a tooth brush which you dip in water and detergent and softly scrub only those parts.

With these four easy methods, even your most delicate stuffed animals are sure to get and stay squeaky clean for a long time.