Plush Care Guide — How to Clean & Take Care of Your Plush Toys & Pillows

Plush toys and plush pillows are soft, cuddly companions in daily life — whether they’re your child’s favorite bedtime buddy or a cozy decorative cushion on your sofa. To keep them clean, fluffy, and smelling fresh for a long time, proper care and cleaning are essential. Below is a practical step-by-step guide on how to clean, dry, and maintain your plush items safely at home.

📌 Before You Begin — Check the Care Tag (If Available)

Some plush toys and pillows come with a care tag sewn in, but not all items include one. Before washing:

  • If a care tag is available, read the instructions carefully — some plush items can be machine-washed, while others are hand-wash only.

  • If your plush item has battery packs, electronics, leather parts, or glued-on accessories, avoid submerging it in water and use spot cleaning instead.

⇒ When in doubt, choose the gentlest cleaning method to protect delicate materials.

🧼 1. Spot Cleaning — Quick Fix for Small Marks

For light stains or dirt on plush toys, pillows, or cushions:

  1. Mix a gentle detergent with cool water — avoid strong chemicals.

  2. Moisten a clean cloth or soft brush with the solution.

  3. Gently dab the stained area following the direction of the plush fibers — don’t rub harshly.

  4. Wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse off soap.

  5. Air dry completely before use.

Spot cleaning is ideal for small stains that don’t require a full wash.

🧺 2. Machine Washing — When It’s Safe

If the care label allows machine washing:

Steps:

  1. Protect your plush: Place it inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase (tied securely) to reduce wear and tear.

  2. Choose gentle settings: Use the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water to prevent fabric damage and color fading.

  3. Use mild detergent: A gentle laundry detergent works best — avoid strong stain removers.

  4. Air dry only: After washing, remove the plush item from the bag and lay it flat in a well-ventilated area.

    • Avoid dryers and high heat — they can shrink fabric or damage glue and embellishments.

💡 Expert tip: Rolling a damp plush item in a dry towel and pressing gently helps absorb excess water faster.

✋ 3. Hand Washing — Gentle Care for Sensitive Plush

For fragile plush toys, plush pillows, or special keepsake items:

  1. Fill a basin or sink with cool water and mild detergent.

  2. Submerge the plush item and gently squeeze to circulate the soapy water.

  3. Rinse thoroughly under clean water until all soap is gone.

  4. Press out excess water — don’t twist or wring, which can misshape the plush.

  5. Lay flat to air dry.

Hand washing minimizes stress on delicate fabric and seams.

🌬️ 4. Drying & Fluffing

Proper drying is key to keeping plush items soft and fresh:

  • Air dry flat — avoid direct sunlight which may fade colors.

  • Gently brush or fluff the plush after drying to restore its softness.

  • For larger plush pillows or body cushions, place them near a fan or open window for faster drying.

  • Never use high heat in a dryer — heat can melt plastic parts or deform stuffing.

🛋️ 5. Caring for Large Plush Pillows & Cushions

Oversized plush pillows and body cushions need extra care:

  • Use spot cleaning for large items that are difficult to wash fully.

  • Avoid soaking thick cushions completely in water.

  • Allow extra drying time to prevent moisture buildup inside the stuffing.

  • Rotate pillows regularly to help maintain their shape.

🗓️ 6. Cleaning Frequency & Maintenance Tips

✔ Weekly or Monthly: Plush toys or pillows used daily or near the face should be cleaned more often to reduce dust and odors.
✔ After Illness: Clean plush items promptly to reduce germ exposure.
✔ Storage: For items not in frequent use, keep them in a breathable storage bag to minimize dust buildup.

❗ Things to Avoid

🚫 Don’t wash plush items with electronics, battery packs, or metal parts — spot clean instead.
🚫 Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage plush fabric.
🚫 Don’t use high-heat drying — heat can weaken plush fibers.

🧡 Final Thoughts

With the right care routine, your plush toys and pillows can stay soft, fresh, and comfortable for years. Always check the care label first (if available), choose an appropriate cleaning method, and give your plush companions the gentle care they deserve to stay soft, cozy, and lovable every day.