Care and Cleaning Instructions for Folkmanis Hand Puppets and Finger Puppets
Folkmanis hand puppets and finger puppets are carefully crafted from high-quality plush fabrics with a variety of textures and realistic details. Proper care will help preserve their appearance, softness and functionality for many years.
According to the manufacturer's care recommendations, Folkmanis plush puppets should only be surface cleaned. They are not suitable for machine washing, tumble drying or complete immersion in water.
Removing Dust and Light Surface Dirt
Dust and light surface dirt can often be removed simply by gently shaking the puppet or wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
For small stains or marks, use a soft sponge or cloth with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Before cleaning, test the detergent on an inconspicuous area to ensure that it does not affect the colour or fabric.
How to Surface Clean Folkmanis Puppets
- Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent with lukewarm water.
- Lightly moisten a soft sponge or cloth with the cleaning solution.
- Gently clean the affected area using light circular movements until a small amount of lather forms.
- Remove any remaining detergent using a clean sponge or cloth dampened with fresh water.
- Repeat the process if necessary, taking care not to soak the fabric.
Avoid vigorous rubbing or pulling on the plush, seams or decorative features.
Do Not Immerse in Water
Folkmanis hand puppets and finger puppets should never be immersed or soaked in water. During cleaning, only the affected area should be dampened.
Excessive moisture may penetrate the filling and internal construction, potentially affecting the puppet's shape and the texture of the plush.
Do Not Machine Wash
Folkmanis specifically advises that its plush puppets must not be cleaned in a washing machine, even on a delicate cycle or inside a laundry bag.
The movement of the washing machine drum, complete saturation with water and the spin cycle may permanently damage the filling, seams, plush fabric and overall shape of the puppet.
The puppet should never be wrung out, twisted or squeezed forcefully, as this may permanently distort the filling.
Drying Hand Puppets and Finger Puppets
After cleaning, gently remove excess moisture by pressing the damp area between two clean towels.
Allow the puppet to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated room. While drying, carefully reshape the head, body and any movable parts to help the puppet retain its original form.
Do not use a tumble dryer, hairdryer, radiator or any other direct heat source. Prolonged exposure to strong sunlight while drying should also be avoided.
Do not use or store the puppet until it is completely dry.
Caring for Long-Pile Plush
Long-pile or shaggy plush may become flattened during storage, transport or regular play.
Once the puppet is completely dry, gently shake it to restore the natural volume of the plush.
Long-pile plush should not be brushed or combed, as this may permanently alter the texture and appearance of the fibres.
Caring for Short-Pile Plush
Short-pile plush may be gently groomed once dry using a firm brush or a suitable pet grooming brush.
Always brush in the direction of the pile to restore the natural appearance of the fabric.
Take particular care around the eyes, ears, nose and mouth. These delicate areas should not be brushed, as hard bristles or wire brushes may damage decorative details or scratch plastic components.
Routine Care
Under normal use, thorough cleaning is rarely necessary. Regularly shaking the puppet and gently smoothing the plush will usually keep Folkmanis hand puppets and finger puppets looking clean and well cared for.
Store your puppet in a dry place away from prolonged direct sunlight. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the puppet, as this may permanently flatten the plush or compress the filling.
Care Instructions at a Glance
- surface clean only
- do not immerse in water
- do not machine wash
- do not tumble dry
- use lukewarm water and a mild liquid detergent
- do not wring or twist
- allow to air dry completely
- shake long-pile plush to restore its volume
- gently brush short-pile plush in the direction of the pile
- avoid brushing around the eyes, ears, nose and mouth
Important Information
These care instructions apply to standard Folkmanis plush hand puppets and finger puppets. Some models may incorporate special materials, moving parts or unique construction methods that require different care.
Always follow any additional care information supplied with the individual product. If the puppet has loose seams or damaged parts, repairs should be carried out before cleaning.