How to Wash a Teddy Bear (Without Ruining It)
October 1, 2026
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Knowing how to wash a teddy bear keeps it soft, fresh and safe to hold for years. Most plush toys can be cleaned at home with a few simple steps. The right method depends on how dirty the toy is and what it is made of.
Check the label first
Look for a care tag on the toy. If it says surface wash only or do not machine wash, follow it. If there is no label, treat the toy as spot clean or hand wash only. Our own plush toys are best spot cleaned with a damp cloth and air dried.
Do not submerge a plush that has electronics, a music box, batteries or a light inside. Weighted plush toys also need extra care, because the weight beads or pellets can shift and clump when wet. For those, spot clean only unless the care label says otherwise.
Method 1: Spot cleaning (best for most plush toys)
- Mix a few drops of mild detergent or baby shampoo with warm water.
- Dab a clean cloth in the suds, not the water, and wipe the dirty area.
- Wipe again with a cloth dampened with plain water to remove the soap.
- Blot with a dry towel and let the toy air dry.
Method 2: Hand washing
- Fill a sink or bowl with cool or lukewarm water and a little mild detergent.
- Press the toy under the water and squeeze gently. Do not twist or wring it.
- Rinse in clean water until the soap is gone.
- Press the water out with a towel, then dry flat or hang to dry.
Method 3: Machine washing (only if the label allows it)
- Put the toy in a pillowcase or a mesh laundry bag and tie it shut.
- Use a gentle cycle, cold water and a mild detergent.
- Wash it alone or with a few soft items.
- Skip the fabric softener, because it can leave residue on the fur.
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How to dry a teddy bear
- Air dry whenever you can. Place it on a towel in a ventilated spot, away from direct sun and heaters.
- Use low heat only if the label allows it. High heat can damage the fur and melt glued parts.
- Make sure the inside is fully dry. Damp filling can smell and grow mold. Large plush toys can take a day or two.
- Fluff the fur with a soft brush once it is dry.
Freshening a plush without water
Sprinkle a little baking soda on the toy, leave it for a few hours, then brush or vacuum it off. This helps remove odors from toys that are not dirty enough to wash.
What to avoid
- Bleach and strong cleaners
- Soaking a toy for a long time
- Wringing or twisting
- Washing toys that have electronics inside
- Putting a damp toy in a closed bag or box
How often should you wash a plush toy?
A toy that is hugged every day can be washed every few months, or sooner if it gets dirty. A decorative plush on a shelf only needs dusting. Brush or vacuum it occasionally.
Looking for a new teddy bear?
If a favorite bear is past saving, browse our teddy bears. The brown teddy bear and the pink teddy bear are good places to start. For other buying advice, read our guide to the best stuffed animals.