We don’t know about you, but our Teddy Bears take care of us in many ways. They’re there when we’re sad, when we’re happy and when all we need is a hug – so it’s only fair that we take care of them in return!

But how? Do we put them in the washing machine? Clean them with a wipe? If you’re not sure, don’t worry! We’ve got everything you need to know about keeping your bear in tip-top condition!

What causes damage?

• Handling – Too much handling can cause material to tear or weaken, and loosen joints. We love to hold our teddies and give them a cuddle but consider this before doing so too often!
• Dust – An all too common enemy, dust can cause your bear to turn a funny shade of grey (as it does with shelves and windowsills when left untouched).
• Sunlight – If you leave your bear in direct sunlight to often it can cause the colour to fade.
• Insects – Something you may not have even considered is that insects could get into your teddy bear. They love warm, dark places and if a teddy is left sitting for long periods of time they may just make it their home! If you suspect bugs are nesting in you precious bear, pop it in a freezer bag and into the freezer for 48 hours – this will kill off the insects.

Now, of course, we advise all our customers to check the label on the bear as cleaning suggestions can differ from brand to brand, but if you follow these simple steps, your bear is sure to be looking its best for years to come!

Avoid the washing machine or cleaning too regularly!

For most luxury bears the washing machine is a no go, it can do more harm than good as the bear will be spun and hit the sides of the barrel. If you’ve got a plush bear, the washing machine could be an option but it’s best to check the label or with the brand. If for some reason you absolutely have to use the washing machine, place the bear in a white pillow case or mesh bag first!

Shake it out

Give your bear a gentle shake and brush every day, this will keep the dust away and keep its lovely locks looking lush. If you can adjust the suction of your vacuum cleaner, you could also give your bear a very gentle vacuum to remove dust and dirt.

Keep out of direct sunlight

Sunlight can cause the fur of your bear to fade – even if it’s from across the room. Be sure to keep the curtains drawn on very sunny days and consider storing you teddy in a dark room. If you’re worried about fading, consider having some clothes made for your bear, this will cover it and keep it out of the light (also, it will look super cute).

Clean once a month

There are options other than the washing machine! We advise to clean your bear with a damp white cloth, a coloured cloth could transfer onto the bear and the white cloth will show up the dirt you’re removing! You can then air dry the bear in a drying bag on the washing line or by using the “cool” setting on a hair dryer. Once dry, brush out the hair with a wide toothed comb or dog brush.

Store in a cool dry place

If you have to store your bear, never do so in plastic as it can cause moisture to build and promote mould and damp. Wrap your teddy in cotton or acid free paper and place it in a cardboard box to keep it safe and sound!

Most importantly – Love your Teddy Bear!

The best advice we can give you is to love and enjoy your teddy bear! If it has a hole or a tear, fix it straight away before it gets worse! If you’re not so handy with a sewing kit then take it to a specialist or a teddy bear hospital. Keep it lasting as long as possible so you can treasure it for years to come!

Find your lifelong Bear today…

Tough Ted, a robust teddy, was given as a gift, to our first born. His diminutive name reflects his size. Small enough to sit in an adult’s hand, he boasts a tough exterior though he has a gentle heart.

He arrived wearing a white singlet proclaiming his name.The singlet is no more….. I suspect a Bratz doll or a Barbie claimed it along the way. On his arm he proudly bears a tattoo of an anchor. I believe he may have spent some time at sea. The inking has hardly weathered and remains as clean as the day he acquired it.

Over the years, determined children, armed with felt tips, have made every effort to customise it, but Tough Ted has resisted. He is not the sort of bear to have a tattoo removed on a whim. He may have mislaid his singlet, but he is keeping his tattoo!

His snout is slightly too big for his face, as though it has weathered several punches. While his ripped, torn ear testifies to a particularly vicious fight. Not handsome, in the conventional sense, his recessed dark eyes are slightly too small. But he is appealing. His fragile stuck-on nose betrays his vulnerability.

A stoical mini bear, he has weathered many storms and emerged, a survivor, his quizzical smile intact. Now semi-retired, he spends most of his time snuggled in a toy box below the stairs, occasionally putting in a guest appearance when required. He is in good shape and has hardly changed since the day he joined our family.

I notice that he has a Facebook page, and that someone has written a book about his exploits. He has never alluded to them. I doubt if he even knows of their existence. He does not court publicity. He accepts attention graciously but is not overawed by it. I expect it is important for him to maintain his tough veneer.

Find your new Teddy Bear

You’ll find a great range of teddy bears here at Toy Street! We stock hundreds of bears, from great brands such as Steiff, Kosen Bears and Ty! Find your new companion today.