How to Clean a Teddy Bear

The better loved they are, the dirtier they get - but most of them are not hard to clean.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Bath Towels
• Mild Detergent
• Teddy Bears

1. Check the label for warnings and instructions. (In fact, it's a good idea to do this when you bring Teddy home for the first time - before the label comes off or becomes unreadable.)

2. Negotiate with your child if she's at all anxious or possessive. Explain that Teddies need baths just like kids. Letting her watch or help with the cleaning may also be a good idea. When it's drying, place the stuffed animal where she can see him.

3. Follow the directions (if there are any) on the label (assuming there is one).

4. Follow your instincts if there's no label: Some bears need to be dry-cleaned but most can take some water. Hand washing is generally safer than machine washing (even on the gentle cycle) for all but the dirtiest - or sturdiest - of bears.

5. Roll Teddy in a towel and squeeze hard (walk on him if he's sturdy) to get as much water as possible out of him.

6. Hang him in the sun to dry, if you can.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't find laundering instructions or if he's not too dirty, use warm water and a mild detergent to sponge him off, dabbing harder at the worst spots.

• Collectible bears should be treated with great care. Their value is reduced significantly if they are damaged.