🧼 How to Clean Plush Toys Safely: 4 Best Methods for Stuffed Animals
Plush toys (also called stuffed animals) often accompany children every day — during sleep, play, or travel. Over time, they accumulate dust, sweat, saliva, and even allergens. Just like clothes, plush toys need regular cleaning, especially for families with allergy-sensitive children or for brands distributing toys in bulk.
In this article, we’ll introduce the 4 best ways to clean plush toys, including water-based and water-free methods. Whether you are a parent or a retailer handling plush toys in bulk, these cleaning tips will help you keep them soft, safe, and fresh.
🖐️ 1. Hand Washing
Best for: Small plush toys or localized stains
Hand washing is a gentle and effective method, especially when only part of the toy is dirty.
Steps:
- Use warm water (30–40°C) and a small amount of neutral detergent.
- Gently scrub the stained area with your hand or a soft cloth.
- Rinse and wipe with a damp rag repeatedly until clean.
- Air dry in a ventilated area (avoid direct sun).
🧺 2. Machine Washing
Best for: Most plush toys (except those with electronics or plant stuffing)
Machine washing is ideal for bulk cleaning. However, care is needed to avoid damage.
Tips:
- Place the toy in a laundry bag or pillowcase.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water (not hot).
- Use mild, neutral detergent.
- Dehydrate gently, reshape, and dry in a shaded, ventilated area.
- Avoid direct sunlight, which may cause color fading.
⚠️ Avoid machine washing toys with sound chips, batteries, or natural fillings (like cotton husk or buckwheat).
🧹 3. Vacuum Cleaning
Best for: Large plush toys or surface dust
If your plush toys are too large to wash, vacuuming is a quick way to remove dust and allergens.
Instructions:
- Use a clean vacuum head or handheld vacuum.
- Gently clean the toy’s surface to remove loose particles.
- Optional: Use a damp cloth afterward to freshen the surface.
🧂 4. Dry Cleaning with Salt
Best for: Small to medium plush toys with surface grime
This is a clever water-free method, especially useful for delicate toys.
How to do it:
- Place the toy and a large amount of coarse salt into a sealed plastic bag.
- Shake the bag vigorously for 3–5 minutes.
- Remove the toy and shake off excess salt.
- Salt absorbs grease and dirt from the plush fibers and can be reused a few times.
✅ Important Tips for Cleaning Plush Toys
Whether washing by hand or machine, keep these safety and care points in mind:
1. Use the Right Water Temperature
- Ideal temperature: 30°C–40°C
- Avoid hot water which may damage glue or fabric
2. Separate Colors
- Wash white and light-colored toys separately
- Prevent dye transfer and permanent staining
3. Use Mild Detergents
- Neutral pH detergents are gentler on fabric
- Avoid bleach, strong chemicals, or fragrance-heavy soaps
4. Handle with Care
- Don’t squeeze or scrub too hard
- Prevent fur loss or seam tearing
5. Choose the Right Tools
- Use soft brushes or cloths to clean toys with delicate textures
6. Machine Wash With Caution
- Even though convenient, machine wash can deform soft toys
- If not too dirty, hand wash is safer
7. Drying Tips
- Use machine dehydration if needed, then reshape the toy
- Dry in a cool, ventilated place
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading or fabric hardening
👨👩👧 For Parents, Retailers, and Importers
Whether you are a parent cleaning a favorite plush toy, or a toy importer managing custom OEM stuffed toys, regular and proper cleaning ensures hygiene, durability, and customer satisfaction.
At FUToys, all our plush toys are designed for easy maintenance, made with safe, washable materials, and comply with EN71, ASTM, and CPSIA safety standards.
📩 Want OEM Plush Toys That Are Safe & Easy to Clean?
We manufacture custom plush toys for global B2B clients — from concept to delivery.
Contact us today to get a quote or sample!
（Updated in July 2025 to include new cleaning tips and improved safety advice）
