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Expert advice on when and how to clean your children's loveys, including his favorite stuffed animal.

How often should I clean my son's stuffed animals? Is it okay to put them in the washing machine?

Donna Smallin, cleaning expert and author of Organizing Plain & Simple (Storey), advises moms to wash stuffed animals as often as needed (every month or two) to rid them of dust mites, germs, spit-up, drool, formula stains, and the like. First, check tags for specific cleaning instructions. Delicate finishes may require special treatment. Next, Smallin recommends washing your child's stuffed animals in a white or neutral pillowcase tied shut with a shoelace. "Use a mild detergent like Woolite and wash on the gentle cycle." Toss your pillowcase (still sealed) into the dryer, and -- voila! -- your son's stuffed animals will come out clean and good as new.

"But," Smallin warns, "there is a risk that some of the stuffed animals might come out misshapen." For example, "If it's really tightly stuffed, it might not dry well, and you should avoid washing the more exotic 'furs' like mohair or wool."

In these instances, Smallin suggests "giving the stuffed animal a sponge bath." Gently clean your son's furry friend with a damp sponge and a mild soap. Or you can use a vacuum cleaner or a lint roller on your kid's stuffed animals. "When you're vacuuming your son's room, just use the hose attachment to clean the stuffed animals as well."


































See original article online at: http://www.parents.com/family-life/home-garden/cleaning/cleaning-childrens-loveys/