How to Clean Stuffed Animals

Introduction

Stuffed animals can collect dust, bacteria, and stains over time, especially when they’re frequently handled or slept with. Regular cleaning helps keep them fresh, safe, and hygienic without damaging delicate materials or sewn-on features. Here’s how to clean stuffed animals properly based on their fabric, construction, and care needs.

What You'll Need

• Mild laundry detergent

• Mesh laundry bag

• Baking soda

• Vacuum with brush attachment

• Soft cloth or sponge

• Bowl of warm water

• Optional: stain remover

• Optional: fabric refresher spray

Steps

Check the care label to determine whether the stuffed animal is machine washable, hand wash only, or surface clean only.
Inspect the toy for loose seams, delicate features, or electronic components. Repair or remove batteries before cleaning.
For machine-washable toys, place the stuffed animal inside a mesh laundry bag and wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
For hand washing, fill a bowl with warm water and detergent, submerge the stuffed animal, gently squeeze to clean, and rinse thoroughly.
For surface-only toys, dampen a cloth with soapy water and spot clean the surface, avoiding saturation.
After washing, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the toy.
Air-dry the stuffed animal by placing it on a towel in a well-ventilated area, reshaping it as needed.
Once fully dry, fluff the toy by hand or use a dryer on an air-only (no heat) setting for a few minutes if safe.

Alternative Methods

• Use baking soda to freshen non-washable toys by sprinkling it on, letting it sit, and vacuuming it off.

• Clean delicate stuffed animals with a vacuum brush attachment to remove dust without moisture.

• For toys with electronics, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry immediately.

• Steam cleaning can help sanitize surface-only toys when moisture must be minimal.

What NOT to Do

• Do not use hot water, which can damage fabric, stuffing, or glued-on parts.

• Avoid bleach, as it can discolor or weaken materials.

• Do not put stuffed animals with electronics or batteries in the washer or dryer.

• Avoid high heat drying, which may shrink or warp the toy.

• Do not oversaturate vintage or delicate toys, as water can ruin internal materials.

FAQs

Can I put a stuffed animal in the dryer?

Only if it has no electronics, glued features, or delicate materials. Use low heat or air-dry settings.

How often should I clean stuffed animals?

Wash every one to two months for toys used daily, or more often after illness or spills.

How do I clean stuffed animals with batteries?

Remove batteries first and clean the surface using a damp cloth with mild soap, keeping moisture away from electronic areas.

Can I wash stuffed animals with plastic eyes?

Yes, but stick to gentle cycles or hand washing to avoid scratches or detachment.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always follow manufacturer instructions and use proper safety precautions. You assume all risk for any actions you take based on this guide.

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