How to Hand Wash Stuffed Animals

How to Hand Wash Stuffed Animals can seem tricky, with countless options online. To make it easier, we’ve gathered the best hand and machine washing methods into one simple guide. Follow our step-by-step instructions to keep your plushies clean, fresh, and looking as good as new!

🧼 How to Hand Wash Stuffed Animals Without Ruining Them

🧴 Supplies You Need to Hand Wash Stuffed Animals

To safely wash stuffed animals without ruining them, gather these essential items:

✔️ Mild detergent or dish soap – A small amount helps remove dirt while keeping the fabric soft.

✔️ Cool water or cold water – Prevents shrinking and protects colours.

✔️ Soft brush or cloth – Gently scrub stains without damaging the plush.

✔️ Towels – Absorbs excess water after washing.

✔️ Basin or sink – A clean space for washing and rinsing.

✔️ Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase – Protects plushies with plastic parts when drying.

 

🧼 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Hand Wash Stuffed Animals

1️⃣ Pre-Treat Stains

Before submerging your plush toy, spot treat stains like food, ink, or dirt.

✔️ Apply a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap to the stain.

✔️ Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the dirt.

✔️ Gently scrub with a soft cloth or brush to lift the stain.

2️⃣ Prepare the Wash Basin

To wash stuffed animals by hand, create a gentle cleaning solution.

✔️ Fill a sink or basin with cool or cold water (hot water can damage fibres).

✔️ Add a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap and mix until sudsy.

3️⃣ Wash the Stuffed Animal Gently

✔️ Submerge the plush toy in the soapy water and gently massage the fabric.

✔️ Use a soft cloth or brush to clean dirtier areas.

✔️ Be careful with plastic parts like eyes or accessories to avoid damage.

4️⃣ Rinse Thoroughly

✔️ Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water.

✔️ Swish the stuffed animal around to remove all detergent.

✔️ Repeat until all soap residue is gone.

5️⃣ Remove Excess Water

✔️ Lay the stuffed animal on a clean towel and gently press to absorb moisture.

✔️ Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can ruin the stuffing.

✔️ Roll it in a towel for extra absorption.

 

🌬 How to Dry a Plush After Washing

Drying stuffed animals properly is just as important as washing them. Here are three safe ways to dry a plush:

✔️ Air dry method – Lay the stuffed toy on a towel in a well-ventilated area. Flip it occasionally for even drying.

✔️ Hair dryer method – Use a hair dryer on low heat to fluff up fur, holding it at a safe distance.

✔️ Fan drying – Place the plush near a fan to speed up drying without heat.

Use a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect plush toys with plastic parts while drying.

 

Read Also: When Can Babies Sleep With a Stuffed Animal

🧼 Alternative Hand Washing Methods for Stuffed Animals

Not all plush toys can be fully submerged in water. If your stuffed animal has electronics, delicate fabric, or glued-on parts, try these methods:

📌 Surface Cleaning for Delicate Plush Toys

✔️ Dampen a soft cloth with mild detergent and cold water.
✔️ Gently wipe the plush, focusing on dirty spots.
✔️ Use a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.
✔️ Allow it to air dry completely.

📌 Baking Soda Dry Cleaning Method

✔️ Sprinkle baking soda over the stuffed animal to absorb dirt and odors.
✔️ Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
✔️ Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove the powder.

This method is perfect for stuffed animals that can’t get wet!

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hand Washing Stuffed Animals

To wash stuffed animals without ruining them, avoid these mistakes:

❌ Using hot water – Can shrink fabric or loosen glued-on features. Always use cool or cold water.
❌ Scrubbing too hard – Can damage soft fabric. Instead, gently massage the plush.
❌ Not rinsing properly – Leftover detergent can make the plush feel stiff or sticky.
❌ Using too much detergent – A small amount is enough for a deep clean.
❌ Wringing out water – This can ruin the stuffing. Instead, press gently with a towel.

Read Also: Why Some Kids Get Attached To Their Plushies

🧸 Final Thoughts: Keeping Stuffed Animals Clean

Hand washing stuffed animals is the best way to keep them fresh and soft without damage. By following this guide, you’ll know how to wash stuffed animals by hand, remove stains, and air dry them properly.

Have you tried hand washing your plush toys? Share your experience in the comments! We’d love to hear your best tips on how to clean soft toys and keep them huggable for years to come! 🧸💕

FAQ

The best way to wash stuffed animals

Give them a spa day in the sink! Gentle soap, warm water, and lots of bubbles will make them squeaky clean. Just be careful not to make the rubber ducky jealous.

How to clean stuffed animals without a washing machine

Time to get your detective skills on! Grab a cloth, and some soapy water, and give those cuddly critters a hand wash. They’ll appreciate the personal touch.

How to dry stuffed animals without a dryer

Let nature work its magic! Find a sunny spot, give them a gentle shake, and hang them out to dry. They’ll feel like they’re on vacation in Stuffed Animal Paradise.

How to dry stuffed animals after washing

Patience is key! Use a fluffy towel to remove excess water gently, then find a cosy spot where they can air dry. It’s like a fluffy slumber party!

How long should I wash my plush toys?

A stuffed animal or plush doll may be machine-washed for as long as the gentle cycle runs (on my washer, that’s 44 minutes). Stuffed animals and plush dolls should soak for at least 15 minutes while being washed by hand. Depending on whether you choose to machine-dry or air-dry, the drying time varies.

How frequently should plush toys be washed?

Stuffed animals should often be washed at least once each month. Some toys, nevertheless, will require more frequent cleaning.

What happens when a stuffed animal is washed?

The majority of plush toys, including teddy bears and other animals, may be quickly and easily washed in the laundry. The spinning and heat of a washing machine may damage plush animals with glued-on eyes, sequins, plastic pieces, or fragile clothes.

Remember, when it comes to cleaning and drying stuffed animals, treat them like VIPs. They’ll come out looking fresher than a daisy and ready for more cuddles!