How to Make Plush Toys Fluffy Again: 5 Proven Methods

Dirt and oils can weigh down fibers, making plush toys feel stiff. Here’s how to wash them safely:

• Hand-washing (best for delicate toys): Fill a basin with lukewarm water and a teaspoon of mild detergent (like Woolite or Dawn). Soak the toy for 30–60 minutes, then gently squeeze (don’t wring!) to remove dirt. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
• Machine-washing (for sturdy toys): Place the toy in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect fibers. Use a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Skip fabric softener if the toy has fur (it can mat fibers).

Synthetic fur or fabric can lose softness over time. A gentle conditioner can restore flexibility:

• After washing, mix 1 tablespoon of fabric conditioner with 2 cups of water.
• Dab the solution onto the toy with a cloth, focusing on matted areas.
• Rinse lightly (don’t soak!) and let air-dry partially before fluffing.

Note: Avoid conditioners on real fur or vintage toys—they may damage natural fibers.

Brushing is key to separating flattened fibers. Use the right tool for the job:

• For short fur: A pet slicker brush (without ball tips) works best. Brush in the direction of the fur, starting from the base.
• For long or curly fur: A wide-tooth comb or wire brush. Gently detangle knots before full brushing.
• Pro tip: Brush while the toy is slightly damp (after washing) to make fibers easier to lift.

Heat can loosen tight fibers and restore volume—use it carefully to avoid damage:

• Steam: Use a handheld steamer on low heat, holding it 6–8 inches from the toy. Steam in short bursts, then fluff with your fingers.
• Hair dryer: Set to "cool" or "low heat." Hold 12 inches away and move constantly, using your hand to fluff fibers as you go.

Warning: Never use high heat on synthetic fur—it can melt fibers!

For machine-safe toys, the dryer can redistribute stuffing and lift fibers:

• Place the toy in the dryer with 2–3 clean tennis balls or dryer balls.
• Set to "air fluff" or "low heat" for 10–15 minutes.
• Stop periodically to manually fluff with your hands.

Ideal for Squishmallows, stuffed pillows, or toys with loose stuffing!

• Stains: Spot-clean with a mix of 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 2 parts water (test on a hidden area first!). Blot, don’t rub.
• Odors: Sprinkle baking soda, let sit 1–2 hours, then vacuum gently. Safe for most fabrics!

• Real fur: Avoid water! Brush gently with a soft bristle brush and air out in a cool, dry place.
• Vacuum-sealed toys: After unpacking, knead the toy to loosen stuffing, then use a hair dryer on low to expand fibers.
• Electronic plush (with sound/lights): Never submerge! Spot-clean with a damp cloth and air-dry. Use steam carefully around electronics.

Small holes or lumpy stuffing? Try these:

• Sew holes with a ladder stitch (invisible from the outside) using matching thread.
• Add new stuffing (polyester fiberfill) through small openings to fix lumps.

• Pet slicker brush or wire comb
• Mesh laundry bag
• Handheld steamer
• Mild detergent (unscented is best for sensitive skin)
• Tennis balls or dryer balls

• Wringing wet toys (stretches fabric and damages stuffing).
• Using bleach or harsh chemicals (fades color and weakens fibers).
• High heat drying (melts synthetic fur and shrinks fabric).
• Brushing aggressively (rips fibers—go slow!)

• Store in breathable bags (cotton or linen) instead of plastic (traps moisture).
• Keep away from direct sunlight (fades color) and damp areas (causes mildew).
• Fluff toys periodically if stored long-term to prevent stuffing from flattening.

• Quick habits to preserve fluff:

  • Brush lightly once a week to prevent matting.
  • Keep away from food/drinks to avoid stains.
  • Fluff with your hands after play to redistribute stuffing.