Courtney asked: I have a stuffed doll I got when I was little and I’m not sure how to wash it. It has yarn for hair and I don’t want to ruin it. Please help!
Whether it’s a keepsake from your childhood or your child’s doll, they will eventually need to be cleaned. Fortunately, this is an easy task and can be completed in the washing machine with a few simple protective steps.
Washing Machine Cleaning
You Will Need:
- Woolite or laundry detergent
- Pillow case
- Rubber band or string
- Old panty hose
Steps to Clean the Doll:
- Prepare the doll by removing the clothing and repairing any weak or damaged areas.
- If the doll has corn silk hair, place a piece of nylon (12-15 inches long) over the head to hold the hair in place. This will keep it from frizzing after it has dried.
- Place the doll inside of the pillow case and close the end with a rubber band or tie it closed with string. Most stuffed animals can be placed directly into the water with no protective covering.
- Wash as normal on the gentle cycle with warm or cold water.
- After the washing is complete, remove the doll from the pillow case.
- Straighten any hair or areas that were rustled around.
- Allow the doll to air dry completely.
Cleaning with Baking Soda
You Will Need:
- Large bag
- Baking soda
- Small bin or tub
- Small cloth or sponge
- Water
- Bowl
- Towel
Steps to Clean the Doll:
- Baking soda can be used to clean animals and dolls with both wet and dry methods.
- To clean a stuffed animal without wetting it, sprinkle the surface with baking soda.
- Allow it to set for an hour.
- Wipe the fur (with some force) with a towel or soft cloth to remove the dust and dirt.
- Cleaning a doll or stuffed animal with baking soda and water allows for a great opportunity for your child to clean their own doll and give it a “bath.”
- Fill a bowl with water and add some baking soda. A bin can also be used to better simulate a small bathtub.
- Have your child place their doll into the water and wash them with the water.
- If the water splashes onto the floor, leave it to clean the floor as well.
- When the doll is cleaned, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Allow to dry.
- Mop the floor to remove the spilled and splashed water.
- Enjoy an clean toy and a clean floor!
Additional Tips and Advice
- To speed up the drying process, place the doll or stuff animal near a dehumidifier.
- Some toys can tolerate the heat of the dryer, or can be dried on a no-heat setting. Add a pair of clean shoes to help toss the toy around and “beat” out any dirt.
- Check the seams before and after cleaning to tend to any weak or torn areas.
- Stuffed animals can also be brushed clean to remove dirt build-up.
