Disinfecting stuffed animals without washing

There’s nothing cuter than watching your child playing with their stuffed animals.

Plushies hold a special place in our hearts, and in our homes. This is why you need to be mindful of their condition, as they accumulate germs, dirt and dust over time.

If washing them is not an option, you must disinfect them using another cleaning process. Ensure your kid’s plush pals stay fresh and safe without a trip through the washing machine by following our selected methods, keep on reading to learn everything that we know!

Why skip the wash?

Washing your little one’s stuffed toys in the washer is definitely the most convenient and easiest option. But unfortunately, not all plushies are machine washable, like those made from soft fabrics, with electronic components or accessories like glued-on eyes.

On the other hand, some toys may not need a deep cleaning in the washing machine or by hand, you may just need to disinfect them to keep them germ-free.

Continue reading to find out the best cleaning methods for stuffed animals without using water to keep them cuddly.

Effective methods to disinfect without washing

How can you disinfect stuffed animals without washing them? Fortunately, there are several techniques to sanitize plushies.

Vacuuming: a simple option

One of the simplest ways to refresh a stuffed animal is by giving it a good vacuum. Remember to be gentle as they need special care.

1. Gentle cleaning: Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt over the toy’s surface.

2. Deep vacuum cleaning: For a deeper clean, place the stuffed animal inside a clean garbage bag, insert the vacuum hose, and seal the bag around it. Turn on the vacuum for about a minute; this helps extract embedded dirt without stressing the fabric.

Spot cleaning for stubborn stains

All of those who’ve been around kids know something very well: stains are everywhere. Plushies are the first ones to get stains as kids carry them around all the time. Maybe it’s a splash of juice or a smudge of chocolate, so you don’t need to wash it thoroughly.

With spot cleaning, you can tackle isolated stains easily, and it's a great technique for a non-washable stuffed animal.

Prepare a cleaning solution with a teaspoon of white vinegar with eight ounces of cool water. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution and gently blot the stained area but don’t rub it as you can push the stain deeper or damage the fabric.

Once the stain is removed, use a damp cloth to remove any residues. Let the plushie air dry completely before giving it back to your little one.

Steam cleaning: a heat-based solution

Steam cleaning is a powerful method because it can kill germs and dust mites without using hot water.

To do this you can use a garment steamer and pass it over the surface of the plushie. Make sure to prevent overheating by keeping the steamer moving. Also, your goal is not to soak the toy but to sanitize the surface.

After steaming, let the stuffed animal air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Baking soda magic

With baking soda, you can refresh your kid’s stuffed toys easily. Since it’s a natural deodorizer, it works wonders for removing bad smells and surface dirt from plushies. Simply follow these steps:

1. Place the stuffed animal in a plastic bag

2. Add half a cup of baking soda to the bag.

3. Close the bag and shake it gently, ensuring the baking soda distributes evenly.

4. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes to absorb odors and loosen dirt.

5. Take the plushie out of the bag and use a soft-bristled brush to remove the residue.

Disinfectant sprays: quick and easy

Another quick method to remove bad smells from a stuffed toy is by using a child-friendly disinfectant.

Choose a disinfectant that is safe to use around children and lightly spray the stuffed animal, ensuring the surface is evenly coated. Let the toy air dry completely before returning it to your little one.

Tips for maintaining your kid’s plushies

Generally, you should wash your kid's stuffed animals in the washing machine's delicate cycle with cold water at least once a month. This way you ensure they remain clean.

With regular maintenance, you can extend the time between cleanings and keep the plushies in top shape.

Vacuuming using an upholstery brush, dusting, gently brushing with a soft brush, cleaning spots with soapy water or using a lint roller are some quick cleaning methods that will maintain your kid's plushies.

Direct sunlight can help kill germs too, but don't allow prolonged exposure as it can fade colors.

Lastly, if your kid's no longer playing with a plushie, store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid placing it in a plastic bag as it can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.

Periodically inspecting the stuffed animals for signs of wear or damage allows you to address any issues promptly, ensuring they remain in good condition.

How often you should disinfect stuffed animals

It's essential to know when your child's cuddly friends need a bit of disinfection. If your little one has been sick, the stuffed animals need extra attention as you have to clean them to prevent the spread of germs.

Unpleasant odors are a clear sign that it's time for a refresh, as well as stains that require spot clean.

Additionally, for family members with allergies, regular disinfection can help reduce an array of allergens, making the environment more comfortable for everyone.