It’s one of the most dangerous things you can do as a parent - washing your children’s favorite stuffed animals. It can lead to tears, tantrums and begging for the swift return of the filthy toy.

But you have to be careful in washing these toys. They can be highly sensitive to the heat from the dryer, may develop splits in their seams, rough fur or other issues.

Many can be safely washed in the washer. Tying them up in a pillowcase can help protect them from damage in there.

But others can only stand surface washing. This is especially true of stiff toys where time spent in the washer can break them down too much. You may have to rely on surface washing with these. Using a soapy cloth and warm water is generally sufficient.

Drying is the other big risk. Many cannot be dried in the dryer. If you want to take the risk, use the lowest heat setting. Otherwise, I use the air only setting to get the drying process moving, then find a warm place for the job to be finished. In the summer, of course, a sunny window does well enough.

Every child is different, but I find my kids take this process more calmly when I tell them that their animal is just taking a bath like they do. It’s a process they understand. I just have to be sure to have them ready by bedtime.

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