How To Remove Wax From A Stuffed Toy

Things Needed

  • Freezer or ice cubes

  • Dull knife

  • Iron

  • Blotting paper

  • Dry-cleaning solvent

  • Fabric stain remover

  • Washing machine

  • Pillowcase or laundry bag

Tip

Stains from colored wax may be removed by rubbing the area with white vinegar. Use vinegar on a soft cloth for short nap fur, or dip an old toothbrush into vinegar for long pile fur. Blot with a clean, dry cloth to absorb the stain.

Warning

Never put an item with wax residue in the clothes dryer. The heat melts the wax and transfers it to other items in the dryer or to the dryer drum.

Check to be sure button eyes and other features are secure after washing before you return the toy to a small child.

Candle wax or crayon wax can become embedded in fabrics, and on plush stuffed toys it can be particularly challenging to remove. On a plush toy made with faux fur, not only does wax cling to the individual fibers, colored wax may discolor the fabric. Begin with the simplest removal techniques, then if those fail advance to cleaners and solvents. To remove wax from stuffed toys completely you may need to repeat treatments or try more than one technique. Always test any method on a hidden spot to avoid damaging the toy.

Step 1

Put the stuffed toy in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to harden the wax.

Step 2

Remove the toy from the freezer, and use a butter knife to scrape or chip the excess wax from the toy.

Step 3

Place blotting paper or a paper towel over the remaining wax, and iron over the surface with a warm iron. This will melt the wax onto the paper. Use fresh paper for each pass with the iron.

Step 4

If the toy can't be laundered, treat any remaining wax stain with dry-cleaning solvent. If the toy can be laundered, treat it with fabric stain remover, place it in a laundry bag or pillowcase tied shut at the top, and wash it in the washing machine on a gentle or soak cycle.

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