Cleaning Plush Toys Safely: All You Need to Know

Kids adore their plush toys. They take them to the park, snuggle with them every night, and sometimes even share their snacks with them. But with all that love comes also dirt, germs, and allergens that can build up in the fur from the constant use. That’s why knowing how to clean plush toys the right way really matters. 

Don’t worry! This guide will walk you through easy, safe methods to keep those cuddly friends fresh and clean. After all, even Teddy deserves a good wash now and then.

When is it time to clean plush toys?

Every few weeks, plush toys should get a good wash, especially if they’re your children’s favourites. That said, sometimes they may need a deep clean even sooner.

Here are some signs it’s time to give them a wash:

Regular washing helps keep your child’s cuddly friends safe, fresh, and ready for more adventures. Make a habit of tossing plush toys into the washing machine when you clean your bed sheets. If you have toys that are not machine-washable, keep reading because we will discuss all kinds of cleaning methods for different types of toys below.

Cleaning methods based on toy type

Not all plush toys are made equal, and neither are their cleaning needs. Some are machine-washable, while others require a gentler touch. The key? Knowing what they’re made of and reading that little care label (yes, the one you usually ignore until something shrinks).

Common materials and what they mean for cleaning:

Spot cleaning for plushies

Not all plush toys are machine-washable, especially those with batteries, mechanical parts, or wires inside. For these special little guys, spot cleaning is the safest route. Getting them wet could damage the internal components (and no one wants a sad robot unicorn). It’s also the go-to method when you’re just dealing with one small stain or when a toy is too delicate or oversized to toss in the washer.

So, how to spot clean plush toys without causing any damage? The good news is, it’s pretty easy, and you won’t need anything fancy.

How to spot clean stuffed toys

1. Mix your cleaning solution – Start by combining a small amount of gentle detergent with water in a bowl. You don’t need a lot – just enough to dampen your cloth.
2. Dab the stain – Dip your cloth or sponge into the mixture and gently blot the stained area. Avoid soaking the fabric, especially if the toy has any electronics or internal wiring.
3. Tackle stubborn spots – If the stain is putting up a fight, use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub in a circular motion. Be gentle – you’re cleaning a plushie, not scrubbing grout!
4. Rinse the area – Take a separate cloth, dampened with clean water and wipe away any leftover soap. This helps prevent residue and keeps the fabric soft.
5. Let it dry – Blot with a dry towel to remove excess moisture, then let the toy air dry completely. Lay it flat in a well-ventilated area—avoid heat or direct sunlight.

Washing machine cleaning

Can you put plush toys in the washing machine? The short answer is yes, but only some of them. Many plush toys made from durable materials like cotton or polyester can survive a gentle spin, but delicate toys with glued-on parts, sequins, metal bits, or internal batteries should steer clear of the wash drum.

When in doubt, always check the care tag. It’ll let you know if your toy is machine-washable, hand-wash only, or a spot-clean-only kind of situation.

If you’re wondering how to clean stuffed toys that are too delicate for the wash, don’t worry! There are plenty of gentle, effective methods like hand washing (more on that later) or spot cleaning.

For machine-safe toys, though, follow the steps below.

How to wash plush toys in the washing machine

1. Check the tag – If there’s no tag, inspect the toy for fragile parts or electronics—those are automatic no-gos.
2. Test for colourfastness – Dab a small spot of diluted detergent on a hidden area. If the colour bleeds, skip machine washing and opt for a gentler method.
3. Pre-treat stains – Tackle tough spots like food or mud with a little mild detergent and an old toothbrush. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then blot with a damp cloth.
4. Use a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase – Pop the plush toy into a zippered mesh bag or pillowcase to protect it from tumbling damage, especially in top-loading machines.
5. Choose the right cycle – Wash on a cold, gentle or delicate cycle using a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Avoid fabric softeners as they can affect fabric flammability and irritate sensitive noses.
6. Sanitise safely – For white plush toys, you can use chlorine-free bleaching products to sanitise. For coloured ones, stick with a colour-safe option to avoid any fading mishaps. Follow the product’s instructions on how to apply it correctly.
7. Air-dry thoroughly – After washing, gently towel off excess water and air-dry the toy in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. You can speed things up with a hairdryer on a cool setting or fluff the fur with a soft brush once dry.
8. Dryer? Maybe – Some plushies can handle the dryer on a no-heat or low-heat setting, but always double-check the label. Plastic pieces or glued parts could melt. Even if you do tumble-dry, it’s best to finish with a bit of air drying.
9. Groom the fur – Get a soft-bristled brush and fluff the toy. To prevent tangling and pulling out the fibres, work slowly, one small section at a time.

Regular washing helps keep your child’s cuddly friends safe, fresh, and ready for more adventures. Make a habit of tossing plush toys into the washing machine when you clean your bed sheets. And if the toys are extra grimy or have been neglected for a while, a one-off cleaning session can work wonders. Think of it as a spa day for plushies.

Plush toys that shouldn’t be machine-washed

Some plushies just aren’t built for the washing machine. Keep these out of the drum:

For these special toys, opt for surface cleaning or gentle hand-washing to avoid damage.

Washing plush toys by hand

If your soft toy has delicate features, glued-on decorations, foam balls, or plastic pellets, hand-washing is your safest bet. It won’t disinfect as thoroughly as a hot machine wash, but it’s gentle and gets the job done, much like cleaning bath toys, which also require extra care to avoid damage and mould buildup.

How to wash soft toys at home by hand

1. Check for delicate parts – If it has electronic components that can’t be fully removed, foam or paper stuffing, or if it looks like it’s hanging on by a thread (literally), it’s best not to soak it. These types of toys are too fragile for a full wash and should be cleaned with spot-cleaning methods instead.
2. Spot-clean first – Dab stained or dirty areas with a cloth dipped in a mix of cool water and mild detergent. Don’t soak the toy just yet—this step helps lift stubborn stains early.
3. Soak and wash – Fill your tub or sink with cold or cool water. Add a small amount of mild detergent (or shampoo), then swish to create suds. Submerge the toy and gently squeeze it a few times to get the soapy water moving through. Use a toothbrush to lightly scrub any grime, paying attention to high-contact areas like paws, snouts, and bellies.
4. Rinse thoroughly – Drain the water and rinse the toy with clean, cold water, squeezing gently to remove soap. Don’t twist or wring—it can damage the filling.
5. Towel dry and air it out – Gently press the toy in a clean towel, mesh bag or pillowcase to remove excess water. Lay it flat or hang it in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. This could take a couple of days, especially for thicker plush. To speed things up, use a hair dryer on a cool setting, or place the toy in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase and tumble dry on low or no heat, but only if there are no electronics inside.

Steam cleaning

Steam cleaning works best on plush toys that don’t have batteries, wires, or delicate features like glued-on accessories. Think polyester or cotton toys that are sturdy and machine-washable in theory, but you’re just not ready to toss them into the spin cycle.

How to steam clean plush toys

1. Pre-check the toy – Look for tags or care instructions. Remove loose debris or hair with a lint roller or brush.
2. Prep the steamer – Fill your steamer with clean water and let it heat up fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Hold at a distance – Hold the steamer about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) from the plush toy. Avoid pressing the nozzle directly on the fabric to prevent overheating or moisture buildup.
4. Steam in sections – Move slowly and evenly across the toy’s surface. Focus on areas that get the most contact, like hands, face, or paws.
5. Blot any moisture – Use a clean microfiber cloth to dab away any excess moisture, especially if the toy feels damp.
6. Let it dry completely – Hang or lay the toy on a clean, dry surface in a well-ventilated area. Fluff occasionally to maintain shape.
7. Optional refresh – Once dry, give it a quick brush or roller pass for an extra-smooth finish.

To steam clean a stuffed animal, use a handheld steamer or the steam setting on your iron (without direct contact). Slowly go over the surface of the toy, letting the steam do the work. The heat helps sanitise and loosen grime. After steaming, blot away any moisture with a towel and let the toy air dry completely.

It’s not a method for every plushie, but when it’s safe to use, it leaves toys looking refreshed and fluffy. No soap or soaking required.

Surface cleaning for delicate or non-washable toys

Some stuffed toys just aren’t meant for the washing machine. Whether it’s a teddy bear with electronic parts, a vintage collectable, or a soft toy filled with foam beads, delicate materials can be easily ruined in a wash cycle. In these cases, surface cleaning is your safest bet.

This method works well for:

So if you’ve been wondering how to clean stuffed animals without washing machine, this section is for you.

How to clean soft toys that can’t be washed

1. Vacuum the toy – Use a vacuum with a brush or upholstery attachment to gently remove surface dust and debris. Use low suction and avoid areas with glued-on decorations. Handheld vacuums are easier to control, especially for small or oddly shaped plushies.
2. Prepare a mild cleaning solution – Mix ½ teaspoon of baby-safe detergent or shampoo into 2 cups of cool water. You want a lightly soapy solution, not a bubble bath.
3. Spot clean gently – Dip a soft cloth into your cleaning mix, wring it out well, and gently wipe down the toy, starting from the top and working down. For stubborn stains, use a toothbrush in a circular motion, but avoid over-scrubbing. Do not saturate the toy.
4. Wipe away suds – Using a fresh, damp cloth, gently wipe away any soap residue. Rinse and wring the cloth between swipes to avoid soaking the toy.
5. Disinfect (optional) – Lightly mist the plushie with a disinfecting spray safe for fabrics and kids. Don’t oversaturate. Let it sit for one minute before drying. This step is especially useful if you’re wondering how to clean a teddy bear without washing it after an illness.
6. Dry properly – Air dry the toy in a well-ventilated area—never in direct heat or sunlight. Many plushies have plastic eyes, manes, or noses that can melt or warp in a dryer. If you’re in a hurry, use a hairdryer on a cool setting at a safe distance.
7. Fluff and finish – Once dry, gently brush the plushie’s fur with a soft brush to bring back its fluffiness. For vintage toys, skip this step if the fabric seems fragile.

With these steps, you can safely clean delicate soft toys, from treasured teddies to blinking battery-powered bunnies, without tossing them into a risky wash. This method is ideal for anyone needing to know how to clean vintage plush toys or simply how to clean plushies that can’t handle water.

Getting dust and bad smells out of plushies without washing

If your plush toy is more dusty than dirty, or you just want to freshen it up without water, this dry-cleaning-style method works wonders—no soaking or scrubbing needed.

How to clean plush toys without water

1. Pop the plushie in a bag – A zip-top bag is ideal, but a clean shopping bag works too—just make sure it’s sealed tightly so the baking soda stays inside.
2. Add baking soda – Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the toy. Seal the bag and shake it gently for 2–3 minutes to coat the plush evenly. Then, leave it in the bag for about 30 minutes. The baking soda will absorb dust, odours, and oils.
3. Tumble to finish – Take the plush out of the bag and shake off the excess baking soda (you can also use a soft brush or cloth). Place the toy inside a pillowcase and tie or zip it shut. Put the whole thing in your dryer on a low tumble or air-dry setting for a few minutes to fluff it up and help remove any leftover powder.

This trick works great when you’re wondering how to clean dusty plush toys or need to freshen up a favourite without getting it wet.

What to consider when cleaning plush toys?

Some soft toys are tougher than others, but others might not survive a spin in the machine—or even a full soak. Here’s what to look out for when deciding how to clean them safely:

What NOT to do when cleaning plush toys? 

Even with the best intentions, cleaning mistakes can turn a beloved teddy into a lumpy mess or, worse, a fuzzy disaster. Here’s what to avoid:

When to clean and when to replace a plush toy?

While most plush toys can survive a few rounds of cleaning and look good as new, there comes a point where scrubbing, sanitising, and stitching just won’t cut it. So, how do you know when it’s time to toss the teddy and say hello to a fluffier replacement?

When to clean instead of replace:

When to replace the toy:

Takeaways