Regular Care Tips for Your Bears
Regular Care Tips for Your Bears
Antique and Vintage Bears
When you first bring home that special new antique or vintage bear, don't immediately mix him in with your current collection. Inspect him first and make sure he is free of bugs. Mohair tends to attract larvae from carpet beetles and moths which feed on the wool fibers. Larvae from beetles may attack wood-wool/excelsior stuffing and even animal fleas can make a cozy home in the mohair. Check the fur carefully by parting the fiber and check for larvae castings (small oval, paper-like casings). Check the joint crevices carefully and around his ears where they join the head. An early sign of moth infestation is often tiny holes in the paw or foot pads. If your new bear shows any signs of infestation, place him in a plastic bag and put him in the freezer for 4-7 days or seal him in a plastic bag with mothballs for 2-3 weeks. However, if your bear has a working growler or squeaker, do not put him in the freezer - use the mothball method instead. If your new bear is of the mechanical variety, seek the advice of a specialist before treating him by either method. When your bear emerges from his treatment, brush him gently to remove any debris and introduce him to the rest of your hug.
If your bear needs cleaning, carefully wipe him with a slightly dampened towel; let him air dry then give him a gentle brush with a soft brush such as a toothbrush. Be careful not to dampen or touch his paw or foot pads as the moisture may stain them. Never, immerse jointed bears in water (antique or otherwise) - the water will cause the wooden joints to fall apart.
If your bear is damaged and needs repairs, consult an expert. Poorly done or unnecessary repairs can decrease the value of your bear. Please take your bear to a reputable, skilled restorer who specializes in restoring vintage and antique bears.
Always display your bears out of direct sunlight and away from direct heat or moisture. Periodically vacuum your bears gently to keep them clean and pest-free. When vacuuming, use a low power setting with a piece of old pantyhose or gauze over the end of the nozzle. Be careful not to damage claw stitching and be careful to keep clear of eyes, buttons and labels.
Modern Bears of Synthetic Fiber
In 1955, synthetic fiber and machine-washable, unjointed teddy bears were introduced. Because these bears were made of synthetic fur and stuffing and had plastic eyes, they could be washed and dried. Steiff produces many items now that are also washable. However, pay close attention to care labels on these types of bears because not all synthetic bears can be washed as some materials react badly to water. Oftentimes the labels will indicate 'surface wash only.' If the bear is truly washable (not just surface washable), you can immerse him in warm water with either a mild baby shampoo or a woolen detergent such as Woolite. Gently remove any stains with a soft brush and carefully rinse. Pat him dry in a soft towel and hang him to dry in a bag such as one used for delicate items - don't clip the bear directly to a line to dry by any part of his body. When completely dry, brush the bear with a teasel brush to separate any matted plush fibers.
Never send your bear to the dry cleaners - the chemicals used are harmful. Never put him in the washing machine unless his label clearly says he will survive such an ordeal. And never store your bear in a plastic bag as moisture may build up and cause mold or discolor the fur.
Antique and Vintage Bears
When you first bring home that special new antique or vintage bear, don't immediately mix him in with your current collection. Inspect him first and make sure he is free of bugs. Mohair tends to attract larvae from carpet beetles and moths which feed on the wool fibers. Larvae from beetles may attack wood-wool/excelsior stuffing and even animal fleas can make a cozy home in the mohair. Check the fur carefully by parting the fiber and check for larvae castings (small oval, paper-like casings). Check the joint crevices carefully and around his ears where they join the head. An early sign of moth infestation is often tiny holes in the paw or foot pads. If your new bear shows any signs of infestation, place him in a plastic bag and put him in the freezer for 4-7 days or seal him in a plastic bag with mothballs for 2-3 weeks. However, if your bear has a working growler or squeaker, do not put him in the freezer - use the mothball method instead. If your new bear is of the mechanical variety, seek the advice of a specialist before treating him by either method. When your bear emerges from his treatment, brush him gently to remove any debris and introduce him to the rest of your hug.
If your bear needs cleaning, carefully wipe him with a slightly dampened towel; let him air dry then give him a gentle brush with a soft brush such as a toothbrush. Be careful not to dampen or touch his paw or foot pads as the moisture may stain them. Never, immerse jointed bears in water (antique or otherwise) - the water will cause the wooden joints to fall apart.
If your bear is damaged and needs repairs, consult an expert. Poorly done or unnecessary repairs can decrease the value of your bear. Please take your bear to a reputable, skilled restorer who specializes in restoring vintage and antique bears.
Always display your bears out of direct sunlight and away from direct heat or moisture. Periodically vacuum your bears gently to keep them clean and pest-free. When vacuuming, use a low power setting with a piece of old pantyhose or gauze over the end of the nozzle. Be careful not to damage claw stitching and be careful to keep clear of eyes, buttons and labels.
Modern Bears of Synthetic Fiber
In 1955, synthetic fiber and machine-washable, unjointed teddy bears were introduced. Because these bears were made of synthetic fur and stuffing and had plastic eyes, they could be washed and dried. Steiff produces many items now that are also washable. However, pay close attention to care labels on these types of bears because not all synthetic bears can be washed as some materials react badly to water. Oftentimes the labels will indicate 'surface wash only.' If the bear is truly washable (not just surface washable), you can immerse him in warm water with either a mild baby shampoo or a woolen detergent such as Woolite. Gently remove any stains with a soft brush and carefully rinse. Pat him dry in a soft towel and hang him to dry in a bag such as one used for delicate items - don't clip the bear directly to a line to dry by any part of his body. When completely dry, brush the bear with a teasel brush to separate any matted plush fibers.
Never send your bear to the dry cleaners - the chemicals used are harmful. Never put him in the washing machine unless his label clearly says he will survive such an ordeal. And never store your bear in a plastic bag as moisture may build up and cause mold or discolor the fur.
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