Guidelines for Buying Children's Plush Toys

• Is the plush toy appropriate for your child? Toddler plush toys and baby plush toys need to meet established safety standards.
• Does the plush toy have any pieces that could easily be pulled off and swallowed?
• Are the seams sturdy or will the stuffing be likely to come out?
• Is the toy made of non-toxic materials?
• Is the toy easy to clean?
• With what is the toy filled and does the material present any health risks?
• Does the toy fit your budget?
• Are you buying the plush toy at the best price? Have you checked discount or vendors for wholesale plush toys to see if you can find the same item at a lower cost?

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Tips for Cleaning Plush Toys

• Check the instructions on the box and label and follow any directions on how to clean plush toys.
• Do not wash plush toys in the machine, unless the instructions say that this is appropriate.
• If toys cannot be washed in a machine, wash them by hand in warm soapy water and rinse well.
• Be sure to dry toys thoroughly but be aware that many will fade in sunlight.
• Let children know when the toys will be washed to save tears and potential fears that you are kidnapping or harming their "friend."
• Between washings, spray the toys with an anti-bacterial or non-toxic fabric freshener intended for that purpose.

Do Plush Toys Pose a Threat to Babies?

• Check that the plush toy is appropriate for your baby's age
• Clean the plush toy regularly to get rid of dust and germs
• Do not allow babies to sleep with their plush toys near their faces
• Do not buy toys with pieces that may detach and create a choking hazard
• Check the toys regularly to ensure that the seams are still intact

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