How to Clean and Care for a Lovey or Security Blanket

Quick answer

Wash most loveys and security blankets on a gentle cycle with cold water and tumble dry on low. For crinkle toys, spot-clean to preserve the sound feature.

Step-by-step lovey cleaning routine

1. Check the care label first: Look for any specific washing instructions on the tag. Most mini blankets and security blankets can go in the machine, but crinkle toys often recommend spot-cleaning. Ignoring the label can shrink or damage the fabric.
2. Pre-treat stains gently: Apply a small amount of mild baby-safe detergent directly to stains and let it sit for 5 minutes. Rub gently with a soft cloth—avoid scrubbing, which can harm delicate fibers. Never use bleach or fabric softener; they can irritate baby's skin.
3. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water: Place the lovey in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of baby-safe detergent. For crinkle toys, hand-wash in cool water instead. Hot water can warp synthetic blends and ruin the crinkle sound.
4. Tumble dry on low or air-dry: Remove from the bag and tumble dry on the lowest heat setting. Check every 10 minutes to avoid overheating. For crinkle toys, air-dry flat to preserve the interior. High heat can melt synthetic fibers or shrink bamboo blends.
5. Fluff and inspect after drying: Once dry, gently shake the lovey to restore its shape. Check for any loose threads or damage before giving it back to baby. A damaged lovey can be a choking hazard; replace if worn.

Products that make lovey care easier

• Saranoni - Bamboni Mini Blankets: Made from 80% poly microfiber and 20% rayon from bamboo for cloud-like softness. This blend washes well on gentle but can pill if dried on high heat, so use low heat to keep it fluffy.

  

• Itzy Ritzy Bitzy Crinkle Sensory & Teether Toy – Mallard Duck: Soft natural cotton fabric with a crinkle interior and textured ribbons. The crinkle sound is a key sensory feature; machine washing can muffle it, so spot-cleaning or hand-washing is safer.