My daughter and husband were recently diagnosed with dust-mite allergies. Among other things, I've been told to wash all of my daughter's stuffed animals in hot water (or, failing that, to put them in the freezer). I washed a stuffed camel of mine that my daughter plays with, and was pleased to see it come out white - I had forgotten that was its original color. I also have a stuffed teddy bear that I've had since I was very small - he's been with me almost 30 years. He sits in a corner of our bedroom, and I'm pretty sure that even though he's never on my bed, he's probably dust-mite ridden as well. I'm excited at the idea that he could return to white, too. But the insides of his ears, and the pads on his feet, are red flannel. If I toss him in the wash with hot water and a little Biz, is that flannel going to run? Is there any reliable way to keep the flannel from running?
Hi Amanda! Since the freezer is your other option you could wash the teddy bear in cold water to prevent the colors from bleeding and after it drys put it in the freezer.
Have you ever heard of the Rainbow vaccum system? My mom has one and it is AMAZING for reducing allergens. They are expensive but they last 30-40 years. You can even "vaccum" your pillows and mattresses. It's worth looking into!
It'll probably be fine. I've wahed all of my daughters stuffed animals and they've never bled colors. If you're worried about it, wash it in cold water first, then hot, that should prevent it if anything. Good luck!
I ALWAYS use Color Catchers when I wash new clothes for the first time. I also volunteer to wash marching band uniforms and they are black with red/white detail. The sheets catch the loose dyes in the wash and there is no bleeding/mixing of colors. I am sure they would work on your bear. Use 2 sheets if you're really worried. Am thinking the hot water would fade the red material to a pinkish color - cold is better, if you have a choice.
To keep colors from running in the wash I'll always add some color safe bleach. I'm not sure if that will work with hot water though.
I'm curious to see what other answers you get.
Best of luck to you!
-S.
