There comes a point in every beloved soft toy’s life when the washing machine is needed. Even the doll that goes everywhere, survives every outing, and sleeps with your child every night. 

If they’re currently a colour that can only be described as ‘well-loved’, you may wonder how you’re going to wash them while avoiding a tantrum. The good news is, washing soft toys is simpler than most parents expect. 

Here’s how to wash plush toys without losing their magic. 

Always read the label

Before anything else, find the care label on your little one’s best friend. Most quality plush toys are machine washable, but some require extra TLC. 

The label will tell you whether machine washing is safe, the maximum temperature, and whether tumble drying is an option. 

If there’s no label or you’re unsure, hand washing is always the safest option. 

How to machine wash plush toys

For most plush toys, a machine wash on a gentle or delicate cycle is perfectly safe. A few things to keep in mind are: 

• Wrap them up: Use a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect the fabric and stop any loose parts from getting caught in the drum.
  

• Gently does it: Use mild, fragrance-free detergent and avoid fabric softener, which can leave residue in the fibres. Choose a gentle cycle to prevent fast spins from distorting the toy's shape. 
  

• Cool water only: Hot water can cause shrinkage, colour bleeding and damage the filling. Stick to 30 degrees or below, unless the label says otherwise. 

How to dry plush toys

To avoid upsetting your child, dry your child’s plush toy as quickly as possible. However, safety is much more important than a quick fix. To properly dry plush toys, remember: 

• Air-dry where possible: Lay the toy flat or hang it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Most toys will dry within a few hours. 
  

• Tumble drying: Some plush toys can go in the dryer on a low heat setting, but check the label first. Add a couple of tennis balls to protect the filling’s fluffiness.
  

• Avoid radiators and direct heat: High heat can melt synthetic fibres, damage filling, and cause misshaping that is very difficult to reverse. 

Washing toys with batteries or electronic parts

Toys with music, lights or batteries should never go in the washing machine. Spot clean these with a damp cloth and mild soap for tougher stains. Let them air dry completely before replacing the batteries and using them. 

Foster creativity with Dinkum World

Every character from the Dinkum World arrives with a name, a personality, and a backstory. We include these details as an invitation for owners to build upon: your own story that no one else can replicate. 

Touch the rainbow over a Dinkum's heart. Close your eyes. You're already there.

Explore the Dinkum family at dinkumdolls.com