How to Wash a Pillow Pet? (Comprehensive Guide)

If you’re like me, then you probably love your Pillow Pet! They’re so soft and cuddly, and they always make me feel better when I’m feeling down.

But have you ever wondered how to wash a Pillow Pet? It’s actually a lot easier than you think.

As a caring Pillow Pet owner, parent, or caregiver, you likely have specific concerns and questions when it comes to cleaning these beloved stuffed animals.

Here’s what the article tries cover and address different audiences.

1. For Parents and Caregivers:
   • How can I clean my child’s Pillow Pet without causing any harm?
   • Are there any safety precautions I should be aware of when washing a Pillow Pet that belongs to a child?
2. For Pillow Pet Owners:
   • How do I maintain the softness and fluffiness of my Pillow Pet after washing?
   • What’s the best way to preserve any scents on scented Pillow Pets?
3. For Pet Owners:
   • How do I ensure my pet’s Pillow Pet remains hygienic without irritating their skin?
   • Can washing a Pillow Pet remove allergens that might affect my pet?
4. For All Users:
   • What are the potential risks involved in improper Pillow Pet washing?
   • How can I differentiate between machine-washable and hand-wash-only Pillow Pets?

Without wasting any time let’s dive right into it.

Can you wash a pillow pet?

Yes, you can wash a Pillow Pet. Most Pillow Pets come with washing instructions on the product tag. Generally, you’ll want to remove any removable parts, such as the stuffing, if possible, and then wash the outer covering in a washing machine following the care instructions.

Be sure to let it air dry thoroughly before reassembling. This helps keep your Pillow Pet clean and fresh for continued use.

How to Wash a Pillow Pet?

There are three approaches that you can take in order to wash your soft and cuddly pet pillow.

• Machine Wash
• Hand Wash
• Dry Wash

Let’s take a quick look at each of the above-mentioned methods.

How to Machine Wash a Pillow Pet?

Before jumping into the instructions to wash your soft stuffed pillow animal in the washing machine let’s take look at ideal washing machine settings.

• Water Temperature: Cold
• Wash Cycle Type: Delicate
• Soil Level: Light/Low
• Spin Cycle: Low

Now that we know the perfect washing machine settings let’s take a look at how to machine wash a pillow pet

Pillow Pet Washing Instructions (Machine Wash)

Step 1: Remove the pillow pet from its cover

The first step is to remove the Pillow Pet from its cover if it has one.

Pillow Pets usually come with a removable and washable zippered cover.

So, if you have one simply remove them.

Step 2: Put your Pillow Pet in Pillow Cover OR Mesh Bag

Before putting your Pillow Pet in a pillow cover OR Mesh bag, make sure to check the care label for any specific instructions.

Most Pillow Pets can be washed in the washing machine, but there are a few that can only be spot-cleaned or dry-cleaned.

Once you’ve checked the care label, you can go ahead and put your Pillow Pet in the Mesh Bag also known as Laundry Bag.

If you don’t have a pillow cover or mesh bag, you can use an old pillowcase that’s big enough to fit your Pillow Pet.

Just make sure to zip up the pillowcase so that your Pillow Pet doesn’t fall out.

Step 3: Putting Your Pillow Pet in the Washer

Now it’s time to put your Pillow Pet in the washing machine.

Simply, put the Pillowcase OR Laundry bag containing the soft stuffed animal in the washing machine.

Step 4: Use a low-suds detergent

While washing the soft toy it’s important that you use a low-suds detergent.

High Suds will not only make your soft toy heavy but also makes it very difficult to dry.

Step 5: Set the washing machine settings

Once you’ve added the low-suds detergent it’s time to select the delicate cycle on your washing machine and make sure to use cold water.

Set the machine to low spin, delicate wash, and cold water settings to get the best possible results.

Step 6: Wash the Pillow Pet

After setting the washing machine up, it’s time to start the wash cycle and let the machine do its work.

Once the cycle is complete, take your Pillow Pet out of the washing machine and check if there are any spots or stains that need to be treated.

If there are any spots or stains, simply treat them using a mild stain remover.

Simply soak a cloth in the stain remover and gently scrub the spots or stains.

Don’t rub the spots or stains with force as it will only make them worse.

Step 7: Hang your Pillow Pet to dry

Once the cycle is complete, take out your Pillow Pet and hang it to dry.

Make sure to not put your Pillow Pet in the dryer as it can damage the stuffing and fabric.

Also, never iron your Pillow Pet as it can ruin the fabric.

Note: If your Pillow Pet is a sweet-scented one, then it’s recommended to not wash them in a washer as it can cause the scent to fade away. Instead, hand-wash them to preserve the scent.

How to Hand-Wash a Pillow Pet?

Now that we’ve looked at how to machine wash a Pillow Pet, let’s take a look at how to hand-wash one.

The process of handwashing a Pillow Pet is pretty similar to machine washing with a few exceptions.

Instead of using a washing machine, you’ll be using your sink or bathtub and instead of using low-suds detergent, you’ll be using a normal detergent.

Here’s how it works.

Pillow Pet Washing Instructions (Hand Wash)

Step 1: Fill a Tub or basin with cool water

The first step is to fill a sink or basin with cold water.

You don’t want the water to be too hot as it can damage the fabric and stuffing of your Pillow Pet.

Step 2: Add a gentle detergent to the water

Once you’ve filled the sink or basin with water, add a small amount of detergent to it and mix it around.

Make sure to not use too much detergent as it can be harsh on the fabric and stuffing of your Pillow Pet.

Step 3: Surface Wash the Pillow Pet

Once the detergent has been mixed in the water, it’s time to surface wash your Pillow Pet.

To do this, simply submerge a cloth OR a towel in the detergent solution and then wring it so that excess water and detergent are removed.

After that, gently scrub the surface of your Pillow Pet.

Also, make sure to pay extra attention to any spots or stains while scrubbing.

Step 4: Gently Press the Pillow Pet to squeeze out excess water

Squeeze out as much excess water as possible from the pillow pet by gently pressing it with your hands.

Step 5: Allow the pillow pet to air dry completely

Once you’ve squeezed out all the excess water, it’s time to allow your Pillow Pet to air dry.

To do this, simply place your Pillow Pet in a well-ventilated area and let it dry on its own.

Do not put your Pillow Pet in direct sunlight as it can damage the fabric.

Also, make sure to not put your Pillow Pet in the dryer as that too can damage the fabric and stuffing.

Once your Pillow Pet is completely dry, it’s ready to be used again.

How to Dry Wash Pillow Pets?

Dry Washing Pillow Pets using corn starch is a great way to clean your pets without having to use any water.

All you need is a container of corn starch and a clean cloth.

• Simply sprinkle the corn starch onto the stain and rub it in with the cloth.
• Pour some extra corn starch on the remaining areas of the pet
• Put the pillow pet in a bag and shake it around so that the corn starch covers the entire pet.
• Let the corn starch sit on the pet for an hour.
• The next step is to brush off the excess corn starch with a clean brush.
• Finally, vacuum up any remaining corn starch.

Note: You can even keep your pillow pet overnight in a bag with corn starch to get the desired results.

Cleaning Electronic Pillow Pets OR Pillow Pets with Lights

To clean your pillow pet, start by removing the batteries and electronics.

Next, use a mild detergent and water to prepare the cleaning solution.

Once you have prepared the detergent, simply surface wash the soft toy using gentle movement.

While washing, just ensure that you are not submerging OR heavily soaking the soft toy as it can damage the electrical.

You may simply use a microfiber cloth OR towel to dip in the cleaning solution and then gently wipe the surface of your pillow pet.

Once you are done surface washing, allow the toy to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area.

Potential Risks and Issues

Washing Pillow Pets, like any other soft toy, comes with certain risks if not done correctly.

It’s essential to be aware of these potential issues to ensure the safety of your beloved Pillow Pet and those who use it:

Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to certain detergents or cleaning agents. If not rinsed properly, residual detergent on the Pillow Pet can cause skin irritations or allergies, especially in children. To mitigate this risk, make sure to thoroughly rinse and dry the Pillow Pet after washing.

Fabric Damage: Using the wrong washing method, such as washing a Pillow Pet that’s not machine washable in a washing machine, can lead to fabric damage. It’s crucial to follow care labels and manufacturer instructions to prevent tearing or discoloration.

Electronics and Batteries: For Pillow Pets with electronic components or batteries, submerging them in water can be disastrous. Improper cleaning of electronic Pillow Pets can result in permanent damage. Always follow specific cleaning instructions for electronic Pillow Pets.

Scent Fading: If your Pillow Pet is sweet-scented, machine washing may cause the scent to fade away. In such cases, it’s recommended to opt for hand-washing to preserve the scent.

Flatness: Overwashing or using harsh detergents can lead to the Pillow Pet losing its fluffiness and becoming flat. To restore its softness, consider using low heat in the dryer or fluffing it by hand.

Tips to keep Pillow Pets in good shape

Pillow pets are soft and cuddly, and they make the perfect snuggler.

But with all that love comes responsibility as well.

You have to take care of your Pillow Pet so it stays in good shape.

Here are some tips to help keep your Pillow Pet happy and healthy.

• Only wash your pillow pet when it’s necessary. If it’s not dirty, there’s no need to wash it.
• When washing your pillow pet, always use a gentle detergent and never use bleach.
• Never put your pillow pet in the dryer. Always let it air dry in a well-ventilated area.
• When storing your pillow pet, make sure to store it in a cool and dry place.
• Avoid direct exposure to sunlight as it can damage the fabric.
• When machine washing, use a low sud detergent.
• Avoid Using Fabric Softeners.
• Always hand wash the scented stuffed pets.

Final Thoughts

Pillow pets are a fun and cuddly way to show your love.

In fact, it acts as an anti-depressant too.

They are perfect for snuggling and make great gifts for kids and adults.

But just like any other stuffed animal, they need to be taken care of.

The best way to do this is to wash them on a regular basis using the methods described above.

Having said that, for a balanced result, it’s a good idea to hand wash them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to washing pillow pets.