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How To Properly Wash 8 Items That Won't Fit In Your Washer
By K. ANDERSON
Large Rugs
For regular foot traffic, regular vacuuming and spot cleaning will be enough to keep your rug clean — just check the tag first to make sure you aren’t about to ruin it.
For a bigger wash, follow these few steps: vacuum, scrub, dry, then brush. To start, fill a bucket with either a rug cleaner or mild dish soap mixed with cold water.
Use a bristle brush or sponge to scrub, then take the rug outside or hang it above the tub to spray it down. Leave it hanging to drip dry, then vacuum or brush it out.
Large Stuffed Toys
Remove the toy’s loose accessories and put them in a large basin. Use a neutral detergent, such as those for wool and silk, and dilute with warm water.
For tougher stains, use a bit more detergent. Scrub in circles with a towel or soft bristle brush, then use a towel damp with clean water to rinse it, air-dry it, and comb it out.
Body Pillows
Body pillows should be cleaned every 3-6 months to get rid of allergens and microbes. The pillowcase can usually be machine-washed, but the pillow must be hand-washed.
Fill a bathtub with a mixture of cold soapy water and mild detergent, then submerge the pillow. Soak the pillow, wash it with your hands, then thoroughly rinse and air dry it.
Couch Cushions
Before cleaning your couch cushions, check the manufacturer tags. If it doesn’t have a "W" for water-based cleaning, it will need to be professionally cleaned.
Vacuum the couch and rub the stains out using a mix of vinegar, water, and mild dish soap on a rag. Rinse with a water-only rag when you’re finished and let it air dry.
Crib Mattress
Check the mattress tag for care instructions — specifically if you can use hot or cold water. If possible, use the right kind of water and vacuum the mattress.
Scrub the mattress thoroughly using water and either a mild detergent or dish soap on a wet cloth. Remove any soap residue with a water-only cloth before drying.