Your YarnYummies piece was handcrafted with intention and care. With the right handling, it will stay soft, vibrant, and beautiful for years. These guidelines cover all of our product types, from amigurumi to hats, bags, and wearable accessories.
1. Washing
Hand Washing (Recommended for All Items)
Hand washing is the gentlest and safest method for any handmade crochet piece. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or baby shampoo. Submerge the item and gently swish it through the water without rubbing, twisting, or wringing. Let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly in clean cool water until the soap is gone.
Machine Washing (Select Materials Only)
Items made from polyester-cotton blend or acrylic yarn can be machine washed. Place the item inside a mesh laundry bag to protect the stitching and any attached details. Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cool water and a mild detergent. Avoid washing with heavy items like jeans or towels that could pull or snag the yarn.
Items made from 100% cotton or milk cotton should be hand washed whenever possible for the gentlest care. If you prefer machine washing, place the item in a mesh laundry bag and use a gentle or delicate cycle with cool water. This helps protect the stitching and shape during the wash.
When in doubt, hand wash. It's always the safest option.
Spot Cleaning
For small stains or surface dirt, try spot cleaning before washing the whole piece. Dab the area gently with a damp cloth and a tiny amount of mild soap. Blot (don't rub) and let air dry.
2. Drying
After washing, press the item gently between two clean towels to absorb excess water. Never wring or twist, as this can stretch the yarn and distort the shape.
Lay the item flat on a dry towel and reshape it as needed while it's still damp. This is especially important for hats, bags, and any item with a defined structure.
Air dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Prolonged sun exposure can cause colors to fade over time.
Avoid using a dryer for 100% cotton and milk cotton items. Polyester-cotton blend and acrylic items can be tumble dried on low heat if needed, but air drying is always preferred.
3. Pilling
Items made with acrylic yarn may develop light pilling (small fuzz balls on the surface) over time, particularly in areas that get regular friction. This is a normal characteristic of acrylic fiber and not a defect. To minimize pilling, wash gently, avoid rough rubbing, and if pilling does appear, use a fabric shaver or a fine-tooth comb to carefully remove the fuzz balls without pulling on the stitches.
4. Reshaping
Handmade crochet items can sometimes lose their shape after washing. While the item is still damp, gently reshape it with your hands. For hats, you can place them over a round bowl or balloon to help them hold their form as they dry. For amigurumi, adjust any limbs or features so they sit the way they should before the item dries completely.
5. Storage
Store your items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A breathable cotton bag or a clean drawer works well. Avoid sealed plastic bags or airtight containers, as trapped moisture can cause musty odors or mildew over time.
For amigurumi and stuffed items, avoid stacking heavy objects on top of them to keep their shape intact.
If storing for a long period, placing a small cedar block or lavender sachet nearby can help keep the area fresh and deter moths, especially for items made with natural fibers like cotton and milk cotton.
6. What to Avoid
Do not use bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh chemical cleaners on any YarnYummies item. These can break down yarn fibers, strip color, and damage the texture of the piece.
Avoid ironing or applying direct high heat, especially on acrylic items. Acrylic fibers can melt or lose their texture at high temperatures. If you need to smooth out a cotton item, use a steamer on a low setting held at a safe distance.
โ ๏ธ Safety Notice: Items with Plastic Safety Eyes
Some of our amigurumi pieces feature plastic safety eyes. While these are securely fastened, items with small parts may not be suitable for children under 3 years of age. As with any product containing small components, please inspect the item for loose parts before each use, especially when giving to young children.
