an embarassing teddy bear problem

Softstuff

OH is currently suffering from strep throat, and after reading up on it I discovered that it's pretty infectious, so much so they suggest throwing out your toothbrush, washing all bedding etc. The problem I have is our 2 teddy bears (long story, but yes, we still have our teddies), they need a bit of disinfecting, but how? Obviously don't want to damage them and they are only labelled as coping with a gentle surface wash without detergent.

Please save Clairebear and Servs!

Alfietinker

Awwww, teddies can be saved! I would have thought a bit of mild disinfectant solution sponged on would have been fine and not damaging at all? As long as you're gentle. Saying that, I've handwashed mine before, (face up so they can breathe ) and they've been fine, even after a spin in the machine.

But you have to promise not to hang them on the line by their ears! :eek:

cookie_monster

My teddy just goes in the washing machine and comes out fine even though his tag says surface wash only.

glendam

I think I have read somewhere but dont quote me that putting them in the freezer will help.

Glenda

dannahaz

Poor teddies, and poor you.

How about giving the Teddy Bear Hospital a call to see if they can advise. (Yes, I am being serious), http://www.teddybearhospital.co.uk/

moggins

If they are old bears then the poor things definitely won't appreciate the washing machine . You could try sponging them over with some warm water with some dettox added to it.

MrsTinks

glendam wrote:

I think I have read somewhere but dont quote me that putting them in the freezer will help.

Glenda

You might not be far off on that one... Most viri will only survive in a very limited temperature range and I would have thought that -10 should be well outside where it can normally live
I could be wrong but I would think it's worth a go (and if in doubt call and ask the doctors - you don't have to admit to the teddies being from childhood, infact you could say they were antique and valuable limited edition bears if that makes you feel better )

Lorian

If he hasn't been kissing the teddies I wouldn't worry about them. If he has you need to be very worried. :eek:

grunnie

Happened all the time when my boys were little. Teddy has to be wrapped in a polybag and has a holiday all day in the FREEZER. Teddy was better in the freezer during the day so they could check up on him regularly and was out by bedtime for hugs.:j

Softstuff

Thanks for all the replies, think a light sponging with a dettox solution might be the thing, not sure we could bear putting them in the freezer (pardon the pun!)

susank

Steam clean with a steamer or use the kettle - mine is so old its full of straw stuff and wont wash!