Quick Answer
To clean your plushies safely, start with spot cleaning for small marks, then move to hand washing or machine washing only if the fabric allows. Always air dry to preserve shape and softness.
Know Your Plush's Limits
Before you start, check the plush's fabric and filling. Most plushies are made from polyester, like the Crossy Road Penguin Plush, which is 100% polyester and can handle gentle washing. However, plushies with special features—like the Velocity Plush with magnetic hands and a weighted bottom—need extra care to avoid damaging those parts.
If the plush has a weighted bottom or magnets, avoid submerging it in water. Instead, stick to spot cleaning to protect the internal components.
Why Spot Cleaning Is Often Enough
For everyday dirt, a quick spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually sufficient. This method is gentle and prevents unnecessary wear from frequent washing. It's especially useful for plushies with delicate details or those you display rather than cuddle.
Step-by-Step Plush Cleaning Guide
- Check the label and features: Look for any care tags on the plush. If there are no tags, note any special features like magnets, weighted bottoms, or electronic parts. If present, plan to spot clean only. Plushies with magnets or weighted bottoms should never be submerged.
- Spot clean small marks: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water. Dip a clean cloth or soft brush into the solution, wring it out well, and gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing too hard to prevent matting the fabric. Always test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure the color doesn't fade.
- Hand wash for deeper cleaning: If the entire plush needs cleaning, fill a basin with lukewarm water and a gentle detergent. Submerge the plush and gently squeeze the fabric to work the soap through. Avoid twisting or wringing. Never wring a plush—it can distort the filling and shape.
- Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean water. Rinse the plush by gently pressing it under the water until all soap is removed. Repeat if needed. Leftover soap residue can attract dirt, so rinse until the water runs clear.
- Air dry completely: Press the plush with a towel to remove excess water, then lay it flat on a dry towel or hang it in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight and never use a dryer, as heat can damage the fabric and filling. Ensure the plush is fully dry before storing to prevent mold or mildew.
- Fluff and reshape: Once dry, gently fluff the plush with your hands or a soft brush to restore its shape. For plushies with a blocky shape like the Crossy Road Penguin, you can lightly stuff with extra filling if it feels deflated. Regular fluffing keeps the plush looking new and extends its life.
Plush Care Considerations
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Crossy Road Penguin Plush: The Crossy Road Penguin Plush is made of 100% polyester with soft yet sturdy filling to retain its blocky shape. Polyester is durable and easy to clean, making this plush safe for gentle hand washing or spot cleaning without losing its shape.
Crossy Road Penguin Plush
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Velocity Plush: The Velocity Plush has magnetic hands and a weighted bottom to stay seated upright. These features require extra care—avoid submerging in water to protect the magnets and weighted filling; spot cleaning is the safest option.
Velocity Plush
