Introducing the ultimate guide to keeping your beloved stuffed animals clean and cuddly! Whether they’re cherished companions or decorative pieces, proper cleaning is key to maintaining their freshness and hygiene. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning stuffed animals, from spot cleaning to machine washing, and ensure they come out looking as good as new. So, get ready to give your fuzzy friends the spa treatment they deserve. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to effective stuffed animal cleaning, but first!

Step 1: Read the Label

Check the care instructions on the stuffed animal’s label. Some may be machine washable, while others require hand washing or spot cleaning.

• Washing
• Bleaching
• Ironing
• Drying
• Additional Symbols

Step 2: Spot Cleaning

If the stuffed animal is not machine washable or has delicate parts, start by spot cleaning. Take a clean cloth or sponge, dampen it with mild detergent or a mixture of water and vinegar, and gently scrub the surface of the toy. Pay attention to any stains or soiled areas.

After spot cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any residue.

Step 3: Machine Washing

For machine-washable stuffed animals, follow these steps:
a. Place the stuffed animal in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag to protect it during the washing process.
b. Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water.
c. Use a mild detergent that is free of bleach and harsh chemicals. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they may leave a residue on the toy.
d. Start the wash cycle, and once it is finished, remove the stuffed animal from the pillowcase or laundry bag.

Step 4: Drying

Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold or mildew growth. Squeeze out any excess water gently without wringing or twisting the stuffed animal. Use a towel to pat dry the toy and remove as much moisture as possible. Air-drying is the safest method. Place the stuffed animal in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You can also hang it on a clothesline or lay it flat on a clean towel.

Make sure the stuffed animal is completely dry before returning it to regular use.

Step 5: Brushing and Grooming

After the stuffed animal is dry, you can fluff it up and restore its appearance by gently brushing its fur with a soft brush or comb.

Now you have all the tools to give your adorable stuffed animals a refreshing makeover! By following these simple steps, you can keep them huggable, clean, and ready for countless snuggles and playtime adventures. Remember, a little love and care go a long way in preserving the charm and longevity of these fluffy companions.

Purchase the perfect stuffed plushie!

Summer is the perfect time to get outside, try new things, and make memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for adventurous activities, relaxing pursuits, or something in between, there’s no shortage of options during the sunny season. In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of 10 exciting and enjoyable summer activities to add to your bucket list. From road trips to picnics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab a cold drink, put on some sunscreen, and let’s dive into some of the best ways to make the most of your summer!

Go on a road trip to a new city or town 🚘

Going on a road trip to a new city or town is a classic summer activity that never gets old. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, a road trip offers the opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories. Plus, with the freedom of the open road, you can choose your own route, stop at any interesting spots along the way, and take your time getting to your destination. So pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road for an adventure you won’t soon forget!

The Luggage Packing Organizers is the ultimate companion for your thrilling adventures this summer.

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Visit a theme park or amusement park 🎡

Visiting a theme park or amusement park is a classic summer activity that provides thrills, excitement, and a fun-filled day for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of roller coasters, water rides, or carnival games, there’s something for everyone at these parks. Not only that, these parks also feature mouth-watering food, lively shows, and a bustling atmosphere that add to the overall experience. It’s a great opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever. So, grab your tickets and prepare yourself for an incredible adventure!

Get ready to ride the waves of summer thrill with rollercoasters that will make your heart scream with joy, while taking care of your belongings with the Sling Crossbody Bag

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Attend an outdoor music festival or concert 🎶

During the summer, attending an outdoor music festival or concert is a classic activity that provides a great chance to enjoy live music while taking in the sunshine and fresh air. Along with the music, these events often feature a variety of delicious food, drinks, and fun activities to enhance the overall experience. Moreover, the lively atmosphere and communal spirit of these events make for an unforgettable time that’s sure to leave lasting impressions.

Step up your style game and shade your summer adventures with the coolest Plush Bucket Hat in town!

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Have a picnic in the park or at the beach 🧺

Spending a summer day with friends, family, or even alone can be made special with a relaxing picnic in the park or on the beach. All you need is your favorite snacks, drinks, and a comfortable blanket to sit on to make the most out of your afternoon. Take in the lovely scenery while enjoying the warm weather and fresh air. So pack your preferred food and drinks, and head to the park or beach for a peaceful picnic experience.

Picnic like there’s no tomorrow with the Marshmallow Cooler Bag

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Take a cooking class to learn a new recipe.

Spending a summer day learning a new skill in the kitchen is an enjoyable experience, and taking a cooking class is the perfect way to do it. Regardless of your cooking level, there is always something to discover in a cooking class. A professional chef will guide you through each step of the recipe, providing an opportunity to learn new cooking techniques and tips that can be applied in your own kitchen. Not only will you learn how to prepare a new dish, but you will also broaden your culinary horizons.

Get ready to slay your culinary skills with the Colorful Kitchen Knife Set 7 PCS

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Go camping or glamping in the great outdoors 🏕️

Going camping or glamping in the great outdoors is an invigorating summer activity that provides an opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature. Camping allows you to disconnect from technology and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and stargazing. On the other hand, glamping offers a more upscale and sophisticated experience with luxurious amenities like comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and gourmet cuisine. Regardless of which option you choose, spending a few nights under the stars is a wonderful way to relax and appreciate the natural wonders of the world.

Escape to the great outdoors and let nature’s embrace be your ultimate sanctuary with the Wearable Blanket Hoodie

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Play a basketball game or other sporting event 🏀

Playing sports is a fun and active summer activity that promotes physical health, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Courts and fields for basketball, tennis, soccer, baseball, and more are often available for public use, making it easy to organize a game with friends or join an existing league. So grab your gear and get ready for a day of fun and exercise!

Quench your thirst for cuteness and hydration as you embark on your exercise journey with the most Kawaii Sports Plastic Portable Water Bottle

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Cultivate a green thumb 🌱

Gardening is a sustainable summer activity that lets you grow your own plants and connect with nature. You can make your space eco-friendly by planting native species, composting, and using natural pest control. Gardening also teaches kids about environmental responsibility. Get ready to cultivate your green thumb and enjoy a fun, relaxing time outdoors!

Plant the seeds of your dreams and watch them blossom into a garden paradise with the enchanting 83 Piece Set Garden Tool Kit

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Create a scrapbook or journal of your summer adventures 📓

Collect souvenirs, ticket stubs, photographs, and other mementos from all the activities and places you visit throughout the summer. Use your creativity to arrange them in a unique and personalized way that reflects your personality and style. Not only is this a fun and artistic activity, but it’s also a great way to preserve your memories and reflect on all the amazing experiences you had during the summer.

Unlock the power of pen and paper with the Colorful Blank Notebook

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Remember that no matter what activities you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and savor every moment of this special season!

Explore New Adventures this Spring

Spring is here! After a long winter indoors, it’s time to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather. Whether you’re looking for solo activities or group outings, there are plenty of fun things to do this season. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Pack a Picnic

Nothing says “spring” like a picnic in the park. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and your favorite book, and head to your local park for a relaxing afternoon. If you’re feeling adventurous, try packing a themed picnic, like a French-inspired spread with baguettes and cheese.

FUMISO Beach/Picnic Blanket

Marshmallow Cooler Bag

Pink Portable Blender

Go on a Hike

Spring is the perfect time to hit the trails and explore nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there are plenty of beautiful hikes to choose from. Look for trails with blooming wildflowers or scenic overlooks for the best views.

Sports Compression Knee High Socks

Kawaii Sports Plastic Portable Water Bottle

Loungefly x Sanrio Backpack

Meet Friends for Rooftop Drinks

Take advantage of the warm weather by meeting up with friends for drinks at a rooftop bar. Many cities have rooftop bars with stunning views and a lively atmosphere. Just be sure to make a reservation, as these spots tend to fill up quickly. Don’t forget to pack your camera and snap some Instagram-worthy pics!

Portable Instant Photo Printer

Sakura Glasses w/ Chain

Freshwater Pearl “Smiley” Beaded Y2K Choker Necklace

Plant Flowers

Bring some color to your home or garden by planting flowers. Whether you have a green thumb or are just starting out, there are plenty of easy-to-grow flowers that will brighten up your space. Look for flowers like daffodils, tulips, or crocuses for a pop of color.

No matter what your interests are, there are plenty of fun things to do this spring. So get out there and enjoy the sunshine!

83 Piece Set Garden Tool Kit

Ceramic Succulent Pots w/ Bamboo Trays

Succulent & Cactus Seed Kit

Refresh You Wardrobe

As temperatures rise, it’s time to shed sweaters and pull out the sun dresses, skirts, floral tops, and pastel accessories. Experiment with trends and don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild.

High-Waisted Plaid Tennis Skirt

Cute Cat Crossbody Handbag

Heart Shaped Sunglasses

Spring brings with it the feeling of new possibilities and a desire to explore outside after being cooped up inside. We want to encourage you to enjoy the rays of the sun, find quality time for yourself and reconnect with friends you haven’t seen in a while.

What other activities would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments.

Further Reading

With the introduction of a new season, are you looking to take up a new hobby? We’ve found plushie collecting to be incredibly fun. To learn how to get started, check out this recent blog.

Contemporary Romance Novels to Try

Curling up under a soft blanket, with our favorite cup of coffee, and a book in our hands is one of our favorite ways to relax. With February being a month of love, we’re finding ourselves interested in romance novels. If you’re looking for a romantic escape, these five books are sure to set your heart fluttering!

• “The Chemistry of Love” by Sariah Wilson

Anna Ellis, a cosmetic chemist, attempts to win the affection of her boss, Craig Kimball. Anna hopes to enlist the help of Craig’s empathetic and handsome CEO half-brother, Marco. As they pretend to be in love, Anna finds her feelings for Marco becoming increasingly real, creating a hitch in the plan.

• “End of Story” by Kylie Scott

Susie Bowen inherits a fixer-upper from her aunt and is surprised to find that her contractor is her ex’s best friend Lars. Lars witnessed their public breakup. When Lars discovers a divorce certificate in the wall with both their names on it, they work to unravel its origins. Furthermore, the intense possibility of a spark between them is hinted at.

• “Lunar Love” by Lauren Kung Jessen

Olivia Huang Christenson is determined to protect her grandmother’s matchmaking business. A new dating app created by L.A.’s most eligible bachelor Bennett O’Brien has proved competitive. Therefore, the two engage in a battle of wits and wills to see who can find a match for the other first. Consequently, the loser has to admit their feelings for the other.

Continued Reading

• “Things We Hide from the Light” by Lucy Score

Nash Morgan, the chief of police, is struggling with the aftermath of being shot. Accordingly, Nash is hesitant to let anyone in. His new neighbor, Lina, sees his shadows and they have an incendiary connection. She has secrets of her own that could ruin their relationship. Despite the danger, Nash is determined to make Lina his and face the danger that nearly killed him.

• “Happy Place” by Emily Henry

Generally, Harriet and Wyn known to be a perfect couple since college, ended their relationship six months ago. Evidently, they continue to keep this news from their friends. They find themselves sharing the largest bedroom at their friend group’s yearly getaway in Maine. Here, they pretend to still be in love while their friends are unaware of their breakup. With the cottage being sold, they must keep up the facade for one last week in front of those who know them best.

Lastly, if you’re looking for an unforgettable escape, or just need a reminder of the power of love, pick up one of the books on this list and settle in for a night of romance. You won’t regret it!

10 Must Read Books for Winter – A blend of fiction and non-fiction

The weather is getting colder, the days are getting shorter, and you want to curl up in a cozy corner with a good book. We’ve rounded up 10 must-read books for winter that are sure to keep you warm and entertained no matter what the temperature is outside.

“The Villa” by Rachel Hawkins

Firstly, “The Villa,” is a story about friendship. Emily and Chess, two childhood friends, take a trip to Italy to reconnect. They stay in a villa with a mysterious history, and Emily is determined to investigate it. Tension builds between the two as Emily discovers secrets and betrayal, leading to a story of murder.

“The Things We Do to Our Friends” by Heather Darwent

Clare moves to Edinburgh, Scotland to start a new life and meets a group of wealthy friends. Drawn into their libertine lifestyle, Clare is asked to help with a project that goes against her better judgement. As she starts to realize the depths of her friends’ ambitions, it’s too late to turn back.

“Really Good Actually” by Monica Heisey

Maggie is a Surprisingly Young Divorcée™ determined to make the most of her newfound freedom. With the help of her friends and advisor, she explores who she is meant to be. This includes the world of dating, hobbies, and career ambitions.

“Make a Wish” by Helena Hunting

Harley Spark and Gavin Rhodes reunite after seven years when they both attend a princess-themed birthday party hosted by Harley’s family. Despite her inner turmoil, Gavin suggests they get together for lunch, which could either heal old wounds or reopen them.

“Georgie, All Along” by Kate Clayborn

Georgie Mulcahy, a personal assistant from L.A., returns to her hometown and discovers a forgotten diary she wrote as a teenager. With the help of Levi Fanning, an unexpected roommate and former town troublemaker, Georgie embarks on a journey to fulfill the wishes she wrote in her diary. Along the way, she discovers that the things she truly wants may not be in the pages of her diary, but right by her side.

“The Bandit Queens” by Parini Shroff

Five years ago, Geeta loses her husband and rumors spread that she killed him. This has given her freedom and respect in her remote village, and other women have sought her advice on how to get rid of their husbands. Geeta must find a way to protect herself and the life she has built as her reputation becomes a double-edged sword, and her actions will have a lasting impact on all the women in her village.

“Venco” by Cherie Dimaline

Lucky St. James, a Métis millennial, discovers a mysterious silver spoon that leads her and her grandmother Stella on a journey to New Orleans. Along the way, they face a powerful witch-hunter and the dark money-fueled company VenCo, who are determined to restore women to their rightful power. The final showdown will determine the fate of VenCo and the future of witchcraft.

“The London Séance Society” by Sarah Penner

Additionally, “The London Seance Society” features a girl named Vaudeline D’Allaire, a renowned spiritualist. Vaudeline visits England to help solve a high-profile murder. Lenna Wickes, a skeptic of the occult, accompanies her as an understudy. Teaming up with powerful men of the Séance Society, they soon realize that they may be involved in a crime themselves.

“The Wrong Kind of Weird” by James Ramos

Cameron Carson, a member of GANU, is in a secret relationship with Karla Ortega since the summer. However, when he starts to bond with Mackenzie Briggs, he begins to question his relationship with Karla and wonders if Mackenzie could be more than a friend.

“Weather Girl” by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Ari Abrams, a TV meteorologist, and Russell Barringer, a sports reporter, have been coworkers for awhile. They team up to try to mend the relationship between Ari’s boss and her ex-husband. While working together, they start to develop feelings for each other, but Ari is hesitant to open up to Russell about her true self.

From historical fiction to romance, there’s something for everyone. So grab your favorite blanket, pour yourself a hot drink, and settle in for a long winter’s read.

Cozy Products for Reading Indoors

Holiday Activities Near Me

If you’re searching for “Holiday activities to do near me”, look no further. We have compiled a list of Christmas activities and other holiday activities that you can participate in to connect with your family and friends!

Indoor Holiday Activities

Make a Homemade Gift 🎁

Sometimes the best holiday gift is a thoughtful, handmade gift. If you are feeling extra crafty and have some spare time to do a little DIY, then homemade gifts are the way to go. If you don’t know where to begin, here are three simple crafts you can create: a wreath for their front door, a garland for their home, or an ornament for their Christmas tree! Making homemade gifts can also become a great Christmas tradition that you can do every year.

Organize a Secret Santa Gift Exchange with Friends 🎅🤶🧑‍🎄

One of the most exciting things about the holidays is the anticipation of opening presents and gifting those you love with items you know they’ll enjoy. This is the perfect opportunity for you to show your love to your friends by hosting a Secret Santa Gift Exchange. To make sure everyone receives the gifts they desire, begin by writing a wishlist with items from different price ranges so that their Secret Santa can buy gifts off of this list. Then, set a minimum and maximum budget so everyone is spending roughly the same amount. This way, everyone will be happy with their gifts and hopefully, no one will get disappointed.

Make a Holiday Playlist 🎶

One of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is to be surrounded by holiday music. Imagine this: you’re brewing your favorite cup of coffee in the morning while a classic holiday tune is playing in the background. Sounds like a perfect way to start your day right? Music can play a large role in affecting our mood, so why not create a holiday playlist that you know will make you feel cozy and happy? To begin, we suggest listening to a few pre-made holiday playlists for inspiration. Then, add the ones that you like to your own playlist!

Outdoor Holiday Activities

Visit Your Local Ice Skating Rink ⛸

If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity to do with your friends and family, then ice skating is the way to go. No matter what your experience level is, ice skating can serve as a nice bonding activity as you will need the other person’s support and company while skating. Who knows, you might come home with a funny story that you will never forget! 😉

Take Family Pictures 🏡

Time passes quickly and before you know it, the year is already coming to an end. The holiday season is a perfect time to capture the growth of your family by taking a seasonal family picture! You can either take the picture at home, at a special location, or even at a department store.

Conclusion

We hope this blog was able to provide you with some fun ideas for Christmas activities and other holiday activities for adults. Are there other activities that you’d add to this list? Let us know in the comments.

Happy Holidays! ❤️

Further Reading

If you’re looking for last-minute Best Friend Gift Ideas, read our blog here!💝 If you are looking for gift ideas for pet parents, read this blog for dog lovers and this blog for cat lovers.

To kick-off the week, we want to share a few cute news stories that crossed our path. We invite you to take a few minutes for yourself and enjoy this round-up of 7 cute news stories.

Ready for a cuteness overload!? We’ve rounded up 7 things from the week that are truly kawaii!

Cute News Stories Round-Up

Kitties Falling in Love

From artist and illustrator, Take a Look Iti, we see several doodles of cats falling love. This graphic shows several types of personalities, including: ENFJ, ISFJ, INTP, ESTJ, INFJ, ect. The point of this illustration is to show that even those with opposing personalities, can find true love. Have you taken the 16 Personalities quiz before? What is your personality type? We’d love to hear!

Matcha Spread – Asian Inspired Butter Board

Anna Ying and Subtle Asian Baking, created a whimsical butter board featuring a delicious matcha spread with strawberries and kiwis. Add waffle crisps, cookies, fruits, or crackers to additional fun dipping options.

Sheep Running in Fall Leaves

The creators behind Apple Fox Farm, shared an adorable video of Gabby, the baby sheep, frolicking through the fall leaves. We could watch this video on repeat. How about you?

Mom and Baby Pandas

The creators at I Panda Channel, recently captured a loving moment from mom panda bear and baby panda bear. You can see Xi Dou and Chao Tianjiao relaxing together and giving one another a massage.

Festive Gingerbread Mugs

It’s not the holiday season, truly, without hot beverages sipped from festive mugs. We want to collect all of these gingerbread inspired cups from In the Work Place. Which ones do you like best?

Teddy Bear Cookies

From food photographer and recipe creator, Mei, we found a recipe for these cute Teddy Bear Cookies! Their faces are almost two adorable to eat. Almost! Try dunking them in your favorite holiday beverage, for added yumminess.

Self-Care Quote Graphic

We know that carrying around feelings of disappoint and doubt, is not easy. We often try to hide these emotions because it feels safer to do so. Let this graphic serve as a reminder that you don’t have to carry these things alone.

A Friendship Questions Game to Play During Friendsgiving

Friendsgiving is around the corner and we know how difficult it can be to plan a fun time for a large gathering. To help spice up your time together, we’ve created a list of juicy questions for you to ask your friends!👀🍵 

Rather than boringly ask these questions to your friends, you can add a little more spice to this Friendship Questions game by GENTLY slapping the nominated friend with a pillow. We recommend filming you and your friends’ reactions; you never know if someone’s reaction will go viral!👀 Make sure to tag us, so we can join the fun (Instagram and TikTok: @UnitedStatesOfKawaii)!

Without further ado, enjoy our list of questions:

1. Who has the best taste in music?
2. Who is the funniest?
3. Who is the biggest flirt?
4. Who is more likely to get into a fight?
5. Who is the most emotional?
6. Who is more likely to do weird things in public?
7. Who catches feelings the quickest?
8. Who is most likely to break someone’s heart?
9. Who is the most straightforward?
10. Who is most likely to post a selfie during a natural disaster?
11. Who is the most confident?
12. Who is most likely to be killed first in a horror movie?
13. Who is the mom of the group?
14. Who is more likely to get lost driving in their own neighborhood?
15. Who is most likely to win the hunger games?
16. Who is the baby of the group?

To see how others have responded to some of these questions, check out this TikTok video!

Hope you and your friends enjoyed this Friendship Questions game. Are there any other questions you’d add to this list?🤭 

Fall is a time for Halloween fun, baking apple pie, gathering with friends, watching spooky movies, and enjoying quality time with family. This Fall, we’re looking forward to changing up our routine with a few unique Fall activities. We hope you enjoy our list of 3 at home activities to try this fall.

At Home Activity for Fall – Halloween Bean Bag Toss

Enjoy the cooler weather, the changing colors of the leaves, while sipping apple cider and playing the traditional game of bean bag toss. With its Halloween inspired design, this game is sure to be a favorite this year for children and adult Halloween parties.

Find Halloween and Fall Music – Host a Dance Party

Whether you’re meeting for Halloween or for general Fall fun, incorporating music into any gathering helps guests to relax. Create a playlist of your own, or utilize one from Spotify. Right now we’re enjoying this Halloween Vibes 2022 playlist created by Past’elle Records. For fans of Stranger Things, Nightmare Before Christmas, and Ghostbusters, this is the perfect playlist for you. Let’s dance!

To add more fun to your party, we recommend choosing a spooky theme such as Vampires, Hocus Pocus, or Zombie Apocalypse. What other themed parties can you come up with?

Fall in Love with Yourself – Set Aside Time for Self-Care

Take a moment for yourself this Fall season. Try turning off the lights, lighting a candle or two, and whip up your favorite seasonal beverage. Perhaps caramel apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte?

We’d love to hear what your favorite at home activities for Fall are!

We encourage you to follow along on Instagram for even more fun content. Hope to see you over there!.