Soft toys and teddy bears go everywhere with children, from the sofa to the car to the floor of every room in the house, which means they pick up far more dust and everyday grime than most other items on a shelf. A favourite toy in particular often gets far more handling than anything else in the room. Some toys even travel along on every outing, picking up a little bit of everywhere they have been.
Before washing, it is worth checking the label, since some older or more delicate toys are better hand-washed than put through a machine. A mesh laundry bag protects loose seams and any small attached accessories during a machine wash, reducing the risk of damage along the way. A gentle, cooler cycle is usually kinder to older toys than a fast, hot wash meant for everyday laundry.
Airing between washes
Between proper washes, a soft toy benefits from being left outside on a dry, breezy day for a while. Fresh air helps remove musty smells that build up from constant handling, without the toy needing a full wash every single time it starts to smell a little stale. A gentle shake outside also loosens any dust that has settled into the fabric over the past few days.
Drying thoroughly afterwards matters just as much as the washing itself, since a toy that goes back into a cot or onto a bed while still damp can develop a musty smell all over again. Leaving it somewhere warm and well ventilated until it is completely dry avoids this problem entirely. A sunny windowsill for an afternoon often speeds up the process nicely, provided the fabric and any colours can cope with direct light.
With this simple routine, favourite soft toys can stay clean and cuddly for years rather than looking tired after only a few months. A little regular care goes a long way towards keeping a much-loved toy looking and smelling fresh. It also means a favourite companion can be passed down to a younger sibling in good condition later on.
