Why Washing Soft Toys in an LG Machine Is a Good Idea
Let’s be real—your kid’s beloved teddy bear or that plush unicorn isn’t just a toy; it’s a confidant, a bedtime hero, and very likely the one thing that survived every snack mishap. But guess what? Even the fluffiest friends need a clean-up now and then. Now, tossing them into your LG washing machine could feel borderline sacrilege or a masterstroke. Spoiler alert: it’s the latter, if you do it right.
LG machines aren’t just your average laundry boxes. They come with nifty cycles like delicate or gentle, and some models even offer steam refreshing features—essentially a spa day for soft toys. According to Reviewed.com, washing stuffed animals in the machine can be safe and effective when following the right steps. So buckle up, we’re diving deep—with a wink—to get those plushies clean without the crunchy aftermath.
Step 1: Inspect and Prep Your Plushy
Before you unleash the LG beast on your soft toy, do a quick but thorough check:
- Loose parts: Buttons, sewn-on eyes, ribbons, or fragile decorations need a safety check. If they’re wobbly, either secure them tightly with a needle and thread or remove them temporarily.
- Seams: Look for any weak stitching that might give up in the spin cycle.
- Surface spots: Conversely, spot-treat stains with a gentle detergent and a soft cloth or toothbrush to give your toy a head start on cleanliness.
Taking this step reduces the risk of damage—and trust me, nobody wants stuffing showered all over the laundry room.
Step 2: Mesh Bag or Pillowcase to the Rescue
This is your soft toy’s best friend during the wash cycle. A mesh laundry bag or a tied pillowcase creates a cozy, protective bubble around your toy, preventing it from getting tossed like yesterday’s salad. It also helps your LG washer’s drum do its job without the toy getting caught or shredded.
Trust the advice from Haier India — this step is a game changer for stuffed animal care.
Step 3: Choose the Perfect Cycle and Temperature
Your LG washing machine likely has a designated “delicate” or “hand wash” cycle. Pick that to keep the mechanical tumbling gentle. The temperature? Always cold or lukewarm water. Hot water sounds like a tempting way to sanitize, but it can wreck glue, melt plastic parts, and dull colors.
Gentle cycle with cold water is the recommendation echoed across cleaning pros—as seen on Whirlpool’s advice page. Keep things mellow for the best results.
Step 4: Fetch Your Mild Detergent
Avoid any detergents screaming “heavy-duty” or boasting bleach and fabric softeners. You want a gentle, unscented laundry detergent that plays nice with delicate fabrics and sensitive noses, especially since our soft toys often end up kids’ cuddlers.
Mix the detergent according to the package directions, but err on the side of less—your washing machine’s gentle cycle won’t need a detergent overload.
Step 5: Air Dry Is the Way to Fly
Here’s the kicker: avoid the dryer. Yes, those tempting warm blasts can shrink clothes, but for soft toys, they can be downright catastrophic — think melted glue, misshapen stuffing, or crispy fur. Instead, reshape your soft toy after washing and lay it flat or hang it up in a well-ventilated space.
Patience is your friend here. Fluff after it’s fully dry, and your plush pal is good as new!
Bonus Step: LG Styler Steam Refresh for a Quick Hygiene Boost
If you’re feeling fancy and your LG model includes a LG Styler or similar steam care system, you can freshen and sanitize your soft toys without a full wash cycle. It’s perfect for when toys aren’t visibly dirty but could use a germ banish.
Keeping Your Soft Toys Clean and Happy: The Takeaway
With modern LG washing machines, cleaning your loved soft toys doesn’t have to mean tears and crushed fluff. By securing loose parts, using mesh bags, choosing the gentle cycle, and air drying, you protect their cuddly charm. And if you want speed and sanitizing power, check if your model has the LG Styler option.
Remember, soft toys are like family—handle with care, wash with love, and enjoy the fresh hugs after. For other cozy cleaning tips, peek into our guide on washing soft pillows or if you want to keep your living room plush, check out how to wash sofa cushions. Clean home, happy heart!
Shopping Tip: Pick the Best LG Machine for Your Laundry Needs
If you’re eyeing an LG washing machine upgrade to pamper your laundry better, check these options on Amazon India or Amazon Global. They have a great selection packed with gentle cycles perfect for your precious soft toys and more.