Can stuffed animals be put in the washing machine? Tips, precautions and mistakes to avoid

Soft toys are much more than just toys - they're cuddly companions that follow children (and sometimes even adults) everywhere. Over time, they accumulate dust, dirt, allergens and even germs. That's when many people ask: can you put stuffed animals in the washing machine?

The short answer is: yes, you can machine-wash many stuffed toys - but not all of them. Before tossing your child's favorite teddy bear into the drum, it's essential to know which ones are suitable, how to wash them properly and what mistakes to avoid.

Can stuffed toys be machine-washed?

Most modern plush toys are designed to withstand gentle machine washing. Manufacturers usually include care instructions on a label, which should always be checked first. As a general rule:

• Suitable for machine washing: Plushes made from strong fabrics, without fragile or electronic components.

• Handwash recommended: Antique, fragile or sentimental toys; plush with glued accessories, sequins or felt parts.

• Never machine-wash: Toys with built-in batteries, sound boxes or delicate stitching.

Adada plush toys, for example, are specially designed to go not only in the washing machine, but also in the dryer. Parents particularly appreciate them, as they simply need to be put in the washing machine and then in the dryer for a quick, hassle-free clean. This resistance is not always guaranteed with other brands, which is why it's important to check the care label.

Tips for machine-washing plush toys

If the toy is suitable for machine washing, follow these tips to clean it while preserving its softness and shape:

1. Use a laundry net or pillowcase
   Place the plush in a pillowcase or laundry net to avoid snags and protect delicate seams.

2. Choose a delicate cycle
   Use cold water and a "delicate" or "wool" program. Hot water can damage fabric or cause colors to bleed.

3. Use a mild detergent
   A small dose of mild, fragrance-free detergent is ideal - especially for children with sensitive skin.

4. Add an extra rinse
   An extra rinse cycle removes any soap residue that could irritate the skin.

5. Prefer to air-dry
   The high heat of a tumble-dryer can damage synthetic fibers or distort padding. In most cases, leave to air dry. But if the label says so (as with Adada plush), you can use the tumble dryer at a low temperature, which will quickly restore the softness of the plush.

Common mistakes to avoid

Even when taking precautions, certain mistakes can damage a precious companion. Here are those to be avoided at all costs:

• Ignoring the care label: Many people wash teddies without checking the manufacturer's instructions.

• Using bleach or aggressive products: They damage the fabric and make the plush dangerous for children.

• Wash with heavy laundry: towels, jeans or clothes with zippers can snag fur and tear seams. Wash plush toys with light linen only.

• Do not dry completely: Poorly dried plush can develop mildew or a bad smell. Make sure it is completely dry before giving it back to the child.

• Forget to secure accessories: Ribbons, buttons or knots should be removed or reinforced before washing.

Conclusion

So, can we put stuffed toys in the washing machine? Yes - as long as they're labelled as suitable for machine washing and you follow the correct precautions. By choosing a delicate cycle, protecting the plush in a net and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep it clean, fresh and ready for new cuddles.

And if you opt for high-quality, durable models like Adada plush toys, you can be sure that they'll not only fit in the washing machine, but also in the dryer - a real time-saver for parents in a hurry.

If your child's stuffed toy is particularly fragile, you may prefer to hand-wash it or simply spot-clean it. After all, keeping these cuddly companions safe and long-lasting is just as important as keeping them clean.