How To Clean Stuffed Animals From Thrift Store
Do you love buying stuffed animals from a thrift store? Me too! It’s a great way to save money while adding unique and adorable toys to your collection. However, you might be wondering about the cleanliness of these stuffed animals. That’s where I come in! I’m here to teach you how to clean and disinfect stuffed animals from a thrift store, so you can enjoy them without any worries.
First and foremost, it’s important to inspect the stuffed animal before bringing it home. Look for any stains, tears or damage. If it is beyond repair, don’t bring it home. If you are happy with your purchase and want to clean it, the next step is to dust it off.
Take a clean, dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush and remove any dirt, hair or dust from the stuffed animal. This will help you see the extent of the cleaning required, and also help in disinfecting it.
Before starting the cleaning process, make sure to check the care label of the stuffed animal. Some toys may not be washable or might need to be washed in a specific way. If there is no care label, you can look for the material and follow the general cleaning instructions.
The next step is to choose your cleaning method. There are several methods to clean stuffed animals including machine wash, hand wash, and dry cleaning. If the toy is small, and machine washable, you can toss it in the washing machine along with some mild detergent. Make sure to wash it on a gentle cycle and avoid using hot water which could cause shrinkage.
If the stuffed animal is not machine washable or you don’t want to risk damaging it, hand washing is your best option. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add some mild detergent. Place the stuffed animal in the solution and gently scrub it using a soft-bristled brush. Be careful not to submerge the stuffed animal fully, especially if it is electronic.
Once you have cleaned the stuffed animal, it’s important to disinfect it. This step is especially important if you bought the toy from a thrift store, as it may have been exposed to bacteria and viruses.
To disinfect the stuffed animal, you can either use a disinfecting spray or make one at home using vinegar and water. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to the stuffed animal. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a clean, dry cloth.
Alternatively, you can also use a steam cleaner to disinfect the toy. The high temperature generated by the steam will kill any germs and bacteria present on the stuffed animal. However, make sure to check the care label first as some toys may not be able to withstand high temperatures.
After disinfecting the stuffed animal, rinse it thoroughly with clean water and let it air dry. Avoid using a dryer as the heat can damage the stuffing and fur of the toy. Instead, place it on a clean towel and let it dry naturally. Once it’s dry, you can fluff it up using your fingers or a brush, and it will be as good as new!
In conclusion, buying stuffed animals from a thrift store can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to ensure that they are clean and disease-free before bringing them into your home. By following these tips, you can clean and disinfect your thrift store stuffed animals and enjoy them without any worries.
Have you bought stuffed animals from a thrift store before? What’s your cleaning routine? Let us know in the comments below!
Disclaimer: The tips and procedures mentioned in this article are for general guidance purposes only. It is important to read the care label of the stuffed animal before cleaning or disinfecting it. If you are unsure about a specific method, consult a professional cleaner.
References:
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/tips/a18925/how-to-clean-stuffed-animals/
- https://www.thespruce.com/clean-stuffed-animals-1900121
- https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-clean-stuffed-animals
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