How to Wash Stuffed Animals

Why Stuffed Animals Need Regular Washing

Stuffed animals — especially those belonging to young children — are handled constantly, dragged along floors, slept with every night, and occasionally chewed on. They accumulate bacteria, dust mites, saliva, and allergens rapidly. Washing them regularly is important for hygiene, especially for children with allergies or asthma.

Step 1: Check for Electronics, Music Boxes, or Delicate Parts

Before washing, check whether the stuffed animal contains:

• Battery-operated electronics or sound modules — remove batteries if possible, or surface clean only
• Music boxes — usually not waterproof; surface clean only
• Glued-on eyes, accessories, or embellishments — may come loose in the machine
• Antique or vintage stuffed animals — hand wash or surface clean only

If in doubt, surface clean rather than submerge.

Method 1: Machine Washing (For Simple Plush Toys)

Most modern stuffed animals without electronics can be machine washed:

1. Place the stuffed animal in a large mesh laundry bag to protect it from agitation and prevent loose parts from getting caught in the machine
2. Use the gentle or delicate cycle with cold water
3. Use a small amount of mild, fragrance-free detergent — especially important for children's toys
4. Skip fabric softener

Method 2: Hand Washing (For Delicate or Embellished Toys)

1. Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of gentle detergent
2. Submerge and gently squeeze water through the toy
3. Pay attention to any visibly soiled areas
4. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear
5. Press gently between towels to remove excess water — never wring

Method 3: Surface Cleaning (For Electronics or Delicate Toys)

• Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cool water
• Dampen a clean cloth and gently scrub the surface
• Wipe clean with a damp cloth to remove soap residue
• Allow to air dry completely
• For sanitizing without wetting: sprinkle baking soda over the toy, let sit 15 minutes, then brush off

How to Dry Stuffed Animals

• Tumble dry: Low heat only with wool dryer balls to restore fluffiness — check every 20 minutes and reshape
• Air dry: Lay flat or hang in a well-ventilated area — squeeze and reshape periodically as it dries
• Make sure completely dry before returning to a child — damp stuffing develops mildew

How to Kill Dust Mites Without Washing

For stuffed animals that can't be washed, place them in a sealed plastic bag and put in the freezer for 24–48 hours. The cold kills dust mites without any water or chemicals. Then shake out and air for a few hours before returning to use.

Quick Tips for Stuffed Animal Care

• Wash monthly for toys used daily by young children
• Wash immediately after illness to prevent reinfection
• Use Febreze Fabric Refresher for a quick freshen between washes
• Brush fur gently after washing to restore texture

Recommended Products

• XX-Large Mesh Laundry Bag — protect stuffed animals during machine washing
• Wool Dryer Balls — restore fluffiness during drying
• Febreze Fabric Refresher Spray — freshen between washes without water