The Ultimate Guide for Washing a Stuffed Toy

A good stuffed animal is a friend for life. They’re usually one of the first toys a baby receives and they provide joy, comfort, and a sense of security throughout childhood. A beloved plush toy will be dragged everywhere from bed to the kitchen table to preschool. And though your little one may not care, it’s probably going to get pretty dirty. Scratch that, it’s definitely getting dirty. Keeping your child’s stuffies clean is essential for your child’s health and ensuring the toy stays charming and cuddly. 

Thankfully, here at Hazel & Fawn, we want to make every aspect of parenthood easier, including the small things. That’s why we wrote the ultimate guide to cleaning your child’s stuffed toys. 

Understanding the Plush Toy’s Material

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to look into what material your plushie is made from. Most stuffed animals are made from an outer fabric, cotton or synthetic stuffing, and stitching. The cleaning method you choose will depend on the materials.

For example, plush fabric can generally withstand a bit more washing, while delicate fabrics, such as velvet or silk, require extra care. Stuffed animals with embroidered features might also need a gentler approach. Always check for a care label, and if available, ensure you're following directions for the safest cleaning methods for your bear’s specific fabric.

Before You Start: Key Considerations

There are a few important things to think about before you begin the cleaning process:

• Check for Care Labels: Some stuffies come with care labels that specify the best cleaning method. Always start by following these instructions carefully to avoid accidents. Otherwise, some brands publish their instructions online.
  
• Assess the Condition: If your stuffed animal has been loved for many years and is showing signs of wear, be cautious. Fragile plushies might not stand up well to intense cleaning, so it’s best to go with a gentler method.
  
• Prepare Your Workspace: Cleaning a stuffed animal can sometimes get a little messy, so make sure you have enough space to work. Lay down a towel or cloth to protect your surfaces, and gather your cleaning supplies in advance.
• Cleaning Methods Based on the Stuffed Toy’s Type

Now, let’s get into the various ways you can clean your plushie depending on its material and condition:

Machine Washing (For Washable Stuffed Animals)

If your stuffy’s care label says it's machine washable, this is one of the easiest and most effective ways to clean it. Here’s how to do it:

• Place the Toy in a Pillowcase: To protect the stuffed animal from any damage or tangling with other clothes, place it in a pillowcase or laundry bag.
  
• Set the Washer to a Gentle Cycle: Use cold water and a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fabric or the plush’s stuffing.
  
• Use Mild Detergent: Choose a mild detergent that is safe for soft fabrics.
  
• Drying: After washing, air dry the bear by laying it flat on a clean towel. Avoid using a dryer as it can damage the stuffed animal’s fur and stuffing. For extra fluff, gently fluff the fur while it’s drying.

Hand Washing (For Delicate or Non-Machine Washable Stuffed Animals)

For plush toys made of delicate fabric or those without a care label recommending machine washing, hand washing is the safer route. Here’s how you can do it:

• Fill a Basin with Warm Water and Mild Soap: Use a small amount of mild detergent or baby shampoo in lukewarm water. Swish the water to create suds.
  
• Gently Wash the Plush: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the bear’s surface, paying special attention to any stained areas. We recommend using just the suds and not the water so that the plushie isn;t soaked through. 
  
• Rinse Thoroughly: After washing, rinse the stuffed toy with clean water to remove any soap residue. Be careful not to saturate the stuffed animal. Instead, focus on gently rinsing the fabric.
  
• Dry: As with machine washing, it’s best to air dry the bear. Lay it flat on a towel and reshape it to its original form. Never wring out the stuffy, as this could distort its shape.

Spot Cleaning (For Quick Fixes or Small Stains)

Sometimes, your stuffed animal just needs a little spot cleaning rather than a full wash. If you’re dealing with a small stain or dirty paw, spot cleaning is the way to go:

• Use a Soft Cloth and Mild Soap: Dampen a cloth with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap.
  
• Gently Dab the Stain: Lightly blot the stained area with the damp cloth, avoiding scrubbing, which can damage the fabric.
  
• Rinse and Dry: Once the stain is gone, use a clean cloth to remove any soap, then let the bear air dry.
  

Dealing with Special Plush Issues

Some stuffed animals may come with unique features, such as scented stuffing or built-in music boxes. Here’s how to care for them:

• Scented or Beaded Filling: If your stuffed animal has scented filling or tiny beads (like microbeads), avoid getting the inside wet. Instead, use spot cleaning and air it out to maintain its freshness.Some stuffed toys are designed so that the interior can be removed, so check the exact specifications of your toy. 
  
• Stuffed Animals with Electronics (Music, Lights, etc.): If your plush toy has a music box or batteries inside, make sure to remove any electronic components before washing. Use a damp cloth to gently clean around the fabric, avoiding the areas with electronics.

Drying and Restoring the Plushie

Proper drying is key to keeping your stuffed animal looking as good as new:

• Air Drying: Always allow your stuffed animal to air dry in a well-ventilated area. This helps prevent any mold or mildew growth. Lay it flat to preserve its shape.
  
• Restore Softness: After drying, use a soft-bristled brush or comb to gently fluff the stuffed animal’s fur. This will help bring back its original softness and texture.
  Shape the Body: Gently reshape the stuffie’s body and head to restore its original look.

Maintaining Stuffed Animals Between Cleanings

To keep your stuffy looking fresh between washings, here are a few simple tips:

• Regular Brushing: Use a soft brush to remove dirt and dust from the fur. This will also help maintain its fluffiness.
  
• Spot Clean as Needed: If your child’s toy gets a small stain or smudge, clean it up right away with a gentle cloth and mild soap.
  
• Proper Storage: When your child isn’t playing with their plushie, store it in a clean, dry place to avoid dirt buildup. If your child tends to leave their bear on the floor, consider a designated “home” for the plushie.

Conclusion

Though regularly cleaning your little one’s plush may seem like a big task, in the long run, it’ll ensure that their stuffed animal lasts as long as it’s loved. Whether you’re hand cleaning, machine washing, or just spot scrubbing, any cleaning will help preserve its softness, shape, and the overall charm of the stuffy. Follow these cleaning tips, and you’ll be ready for whatever adventure your little one chooses to take their toy on!