How do you wash a stuffed animal that can't be washed?

Surface clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Or use the baking soda method: coat, wait 30 minutes, vacuum.

How do you kill dust mites in stuffed animals?

Freeze in a sealed bag for 48 hours. Or wash in hot water if the material allows. The dryer on high heat also kills mites.

Every 2-4 weeks for lovies that are carried everywhere. Monthly for display or occasional-use stuffed animals.

Tumble dry on low heat or hang in the sun. The sun's UV rays provide natural sanitizing. Fluff by hand once dry.

Kids

Kids' items need frequent cleaning for health and hygiene. Here's the safe and effective way to clean stuffed animals.

1
Check for electronics and damage
Remove batteries and electronic parts if possible. Check for loose seams, buttons, or eyes that could come off in the wash.
2
Spot-treat stains
Rub a small amount of Power Wash detergent directly onto stains. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
3
Machine wash on gentle
Place the stuffed animal in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. Wash on gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of detergent.
4
Dry carefully
Tumble dry on low heat or air dry in the sun. Fluff by hand when dry. The sun also helps sanitize and brighten.

TIPFor stuffed animals that can't be machine washed, sprinkle baking soda all over, let sit 30 minutes, then vacuum off.
TIPFreeze stuffed animals in a sealed bag for 48 hours to kill dust mites without washing.
TIPWash children's stuffed animals every 2-4 weeks. They go everywhere -- including the floor and the child's face.

XMachine washing stuffed animals with electronic components inside, which destroys the electronics and can be a fire hazard.
XUsing hot water, which fades colors, weakens glue, and can melt glued-on features like eyes.
XPutting a stuffed animal back in the crib or bed while still damp, which breeds mold inside.

Most fabric stuffed animals without electronics can be machine washed on gentle cold in a pillowcase. Check for loose parts first.