How to Clean Your Plushies (Without Destroying Them!)

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The question of how to clean your plushies is a delicate one. After all, plushies are more than just toys! They’re cherished companions that often hold sentimental value.

Whether it’s a tiny keychain plush, a backpack plushie, or a large stuffed animal, proper cleaning is essential to keep your fuzzy friends in top condition.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods to clean your plushies effectively and safely.

General Cleaning Tips

Keep these general tips in mind:

  • Always check the care label on your plushie for manufacturer recommendations.
  • Remove any batteries or electronic components before washing. Some plushies may have electronic components. If you can’t remove these, always hand wash!
  • For valuable or antique plushies, consider professional cleaning services. Professionals know what kind of cleaning agents are best for specific materials, especially older materials, and can help keep your heirloom plushie from being damaged.
  • Test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first.

How to Wash Plushies by Hand

Hand washing is often the safest method for cleaning plushies. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent (we’re talking very diluted, you don’t need much).
  2. Gently submerge the plushie and squeeze to allow water to penetrate.
  3. Use a soft brush or cloth to clean dirty areas.
  4. Rinse thoroughly several times with clean water each time until all soap is removed.
  5. Gently squeeze out excess water without twisting. Pat dry with a towel, then leave in a well ventilated area with a fan to air dry the rest of the way.

The plastic bag trick (for difficult grime)

  1. Rub baking soda directly into the plush
  2. Put into plastic bag and seal it
  3. After a while, gently brush out the baking soda with a soft brush

Machine Washing Plushies

For machine-washable plushies:

  1. Pre-treat any specific stains directly.
  2. Place the plushie in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase with one end tied in a knot.
  3. Use cold water and a gentle cycle.
  4. Add a very small amount of mild detergent.
  5. Avoid using fabric softener as it can damage the plush fibers.
  6. For extra protection, add a couple of clean white towels to the load.

Cleaning Backpack and Keychain Plushies

Smaller plushies attached to backpacks or keychains require special attention:

  1. Remove from the backpack or keychain if possible.
  2. Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.
  3. For thorough cleaning, follow the hand washing method above.
  4. Pay extra attention to attachment points, which often accumulate dirt.
  5. If you must put through a washing machine, always put inside of another soft container, and always use gentle and cold settings.

Spot Cleaning Techniques

For quick touch-ups or delicate plushies:

  1. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water.
  2. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently dab at stains.
  3. Avoid rubbing, which can damage the fabric or spread the stain.
  4. Rinse the area with a clean, damp cloth.

Drying Your Plushies

To ensure you clean your plushies the right way, proper drying is crucial to prevent mold and maintain shape:

  1. Gently squeeze out excess water without twisting.
  2. Reshape the plushie while damp.
  3. Air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight.
  4. For faster drying, use a fan on a low setting.
  5. Fluff and rotate periodically during drying to maintain shape.

Special Care for Different Materials

Different materials require specific care:

  • Fur Fabric: Use a wire pet brush to restore fluffiness after washing. NEVER use a dryer machine. NEVER use fabric softener.
  • Velboa or Minky Fabric: Brush gently with a soft-bristled brush while damp.
  • Synthetic Fibers: Can usually withstand machine washing, but check the label.
  • Natural Fibers (like wool): Typically require hand washing or dry cleaning. Wool can easily be destroyed in a washing machine! Ask a local dry cleaning business for help.
  • Foam-Filled Plushies: Air dry thoroughly to prevent mold growth inside.

Destuffing

Sometimes with your plushers, you may need to take their stuffing out before you wash. This requires some sewing knowledge before you attempt so be sure you know what you are doing to safely remove some stiches (look for the stuffing hole) and add them back.

Sometimes you may want to add new fresh stuffing, you can get these at any hobby/fabric/craft store near you such as Hobby Lobby or Joann’s Fabric.

Especially large plushies may require you to destuff before attempting to clean. You can wash the stuffing in smaller amounts contained in mesh bags.

While you’re getting handy with a needle and thread, why not add some extra lore and add a fabric heart or some other symbol that is meaningful to you and your plush to its insides before you seal it back up.

Which cleaning agents to use?

  • Oxiclean
  • Baking soda
  • Borax
  • Baby laundry detergents
  • Woolite delicate detergent
  • Most bleach free detergents

Maintaining Your Plushies

Regular maintenance can reduce the need for deep cleaning:

  1. Vacuum plushies regularly using a brush attachment.
  2. Store in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  3. For display plushies, dust with a soft brush. Never use sticker lint rollers, they leave residue which makes them sticky to dust and lint. That’s also why you should not use a sticker lint roller on your clothing either. You can find brushes meant specifically for clothing, get one of those, which can also be used for plushies.
  4. Address stains immediately to prevent setting. Each kind of stain can have a different method of cleaning, but also be mindful of the materials and avoid roughly brushing. Focus on dabbing and drawing out stains with clean cloths.

By following these guidelines, you can keep your plushies clean, fresh, and ready for cuddles for years to come. Remember, when in doubt, always opt for the gentlest cleaning method to preserve your beloved fuzzy friends.

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