How do you clean stuffed animals that won't go in the washer?

[Early Bird]

DD's got some stuffed animals at garage sales last weekend.

Instead of being soft and fluffy, these are kind of stiff.

How can I clean and disinfect them? I thought putting them in a black plastic bag out in the sun might help... how long, though, I don't know.

Other ideas?

[AmyMCGS]

Good question-- and one I was facing myself a month or so ago. I finally got brave and put DD's favorite baby (the tag said not to put it in the washer) into the washing machine-- and it came out fine! I put it inside a pillowcase along with a washcloth, tied the pillowcase shut, and washed on the cold delicate cycle. I don't know if this will work for your animals, but it did wonders for DD's soft stuffed pink baby. Good luck!

[KKCondrey]

I agree with everyone else. I've alway's heard that you should put them in a pillow case and throw them in the washer.

[homesteadmamma]

I have put all the kids stuffed toys at one time in the washer. I wash on the gentle cycle and in cold water. I've never had a problem. I hang them outside to dry on the clothesline.