Keeping Your Teddy Bears Clean: A Guide
Whether your teddy bears are cherished companions for your kids or part of a prized collection, keeping them clean is essential. This guide will explain why it's important to clean your teddy bears and provide you with the best methods for cleaning your Charlie Bears.
Why Clean Your Teddy Bears?
Teddy bears that are beloved companions to children can easily get dirty from food spills, outdoor play, or even from carrying germs if your child gets sick. Additionally, even bears kept indoors can collect dust over time.
Maintaining the cleanliness of your teddy bears, including those in collections, is crucial to preserve their condition. Just like a cushion can fade and deteriorate if not maintained, a teddy bear can also suffer if left uncleaned. Dust accumulation can lead to more dirt and attract household pests. Regular, gentle cleaning can prevent this and keep your bear in top shape.
Assess Your Teddy Bear
Determine the level of cleaning needed for your bear. A localized spill might only require spot cleaning, while a teddy bear that has spent a day outside might need a thorough wash. For bears that belong to children, a monthly wash is advisable, even if they appear clean. Light dusting with a clean, soft brush can help keep the teddy fresh between washes.
Notes on Maintaining Charlie Bears
Check the care instructions for your Charlie Bear to see if it is machine washable. Generally, the Bearhouse Bears as well as Cuddly Cubs and Bear & Me by Charlie Bears collections are machine washable. These soft plush bears can be washed at 30°C with a mild detergent.
Other bears, especially those in the Isabelle collection made from delicate materials like mohair or alpaca, should be washed by hand.
Washing Your Bear
Machine Washable Bears:
- Place the bear in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it.
- Use a mild bio detergent and set the machine to a maximum of 30°C.
Hand Wash Only Bears:
- Use a sponge or cloth to gently lather the fabric.
- Rinse the bear thoroughly, two to three times, to ensure all soap is removed.
Drying Your Bear
After washing, avoid wringing out your bear to prevent damage. Gently press and squeeze out excess water, then let the bear air dry in a well-ventilated area until completely dry, both inside and out.
Once your bear is dry, you can give their fur a brush with a soft hair- or toothbrush, to make their coat all tidy and untangled again.
Do NOT tumble dry your bears!
Maintaining Your Bear
Regular dusting with a soft brush and occasional thorough washing will keep your bear's fabric soft and clean, ensuring it remains hygienic for your children to cuddle. Following these steps will help maintain your teddy bear's appearance and longevity.