To clean a surface washable item, you typically use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the exterior.
Surface washing is a common method for cleaning items that cannot be submerged in water, such as many stuffed animals. The goal is to clean the outer layer without saturating the filling or internal components.
Here's a breakdown of the process based on standard practices for surface washable items like stuffed animals:
Steps for Surface Washing
The core technique involves using minimal moisture directly on the surface.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Cloth: Obtain a soft cloth (like a microfiber cloth or clean rag).
- Step 2: Dampen the Cloth: Dampen the cloth with water. It's crucial that the cloth is damp, not wet or dripping, to avoid soaking the item. Wring out excess water thoroughly.
- Step 3: Gently Wipe: Gently wipe the surface of the item with the damp cloth. Use light pressure to avoid damaging the material or pushing moisture deeper into the item.
Key Considerations When Surface Washing
- Focus on Heavily Soiled Areas: As mentioned in the reference, pay extra attention to heavily soiled areas. You might need to wipe these spots multiple times, re-dampening the cloth as needed, but always ensure the cloth remains just damp.
- Avoid Saturation: Do not soak the item. Surface washing is specifically for cleaning the exterior layer.
- Drying: Allow the item to air dry completely after cleaning. Avoid direct heat, which could damage certain materials.
- Testing: For items with delicate fabrics or colors, it's always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the process doesn't cause damage or discoloration.
By using a soft, dampened cloth and gently wiping the surface, you can effectively clean items designated as surface washable without exposing them to excessive moisture.
