How to Wash Weighted Stuffed Animals Safely
October 1, 2026
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Knowing how to wash weighted stuffed animals matters, because the weight inside makes them harder to clean than a regular plush. The weighted material can clump, stay damp for a long time and damage the seams if the toy is handled roughly. The safest approach is to spot clean first and to wash the whole toy only when the care label says you can.
Step 1: Read the care label
Look for a tag on the toy or instructions on the product page. If it says surface clean or spot clean only, do not soak it. Our weighted plush toys are best spot cleaned with a damp cloth and air dried. If there is no label and you are not sure, treat the toy as spot clean only.
Step 2: Spot clean
- Mix a few drops of mild detergent into warm water.
- Dip a clean cloth or soft sponge in the suds and wring it out well.
- Wipe the stained area in gentle circles, working from the edge toward the center.
- Wipe the area again with a cloth dampened with plain water to remove soap.
- Blot with a dry towel.
Step 3: Hand wash only if the label allows it
- Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Press the toy under the surface. Do not twist or wring it, because that can break the weighted pockets.
- Rinse by pressing it in clean water until the soap is gone.
- Press the water out with a towel. Do not squeeze hard.
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Step 4: Dry it completely
- Air dry. Lay the toy flat on a clean towel. Turn it from time to time.
- Use airflow. A fan in the room helps the toy dry faster and reduces the risk of mold.
- Avoid the dryer and direct heat. Heat can damage the filling and the seams.
- Be patient. A weighted toy can take a day or two to dry all the way through. Do not hug it until it is dry.
Keeping it fresh between washes
- Sprinkle baking soda on the toy, wait a few hours and brush or vacuum it off.
- Brush the fur gently with a soft brush.
- Keep it out of damp rooms.
What to avoid
- Machine washing and tumble drying, unless the care label says you can.
- Bleach, strong cleaners and fabric softener.
- Wringing and twisting.
- Soaking the toy for a long time.
- Storing it while damp.
When to replace it
If the weight has clumped hard, the seams are open or the toy smells musty even after drying, replace it. You can browse the weighted plush collection for new options, or read our guide to weighted stuffed animals for adults. For regular plush toys, see how to wash a teddy bear.
