Also, check to see if it has removable stuffing.

If so, remove the stuffing prior to washing so it does not form clumps.

The toothbrush will loosen up embedded dust, dirt, and other types of soil.

Brown teddy bear sitting next to yellow and orange slide with dirt on the arm

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Wash any removable clothing and accessories separately.

This is a good idea for a delicate teddy bear but should be considered when youwash any stuffed toy.

Add Laundry Detergent

Choose a favoritegentle laundry detergentand add it to your wash load.

Materials and tools to wash a teddy bear

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Keep in mind the teddy bear may not return to its former shape if subjected to hot water.

Another drying option is to drop-dry the bear by hanging it from a clothesline.

Avoid doing so outside in the sun as it may result in fading.

Tan teddy bear’s eye being brushed with soft old toothbrush

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

You may also use a blow dryer or fan to finish drying out the bear.

Brush the Fur

Give the teddy bear a bit of grooming.

This restores the sleek shiny look that the teddy bear originally had.

Tan teddy bear placed in white mesh protective bag

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Swish the water and detergent to create suds.

Delicate or older teddy bears should soak for only 15 minutes.

Brush Decorative Parts

At the end of the soaking period, grab a soft toothbrush.

White bottle of gentle laundry detergent held over tan teddy bear

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Rinse

Rinse the bear under cool tap water until the suds are gone.

Do not handle the bear too vigorously or the fibers and decorative parts can become damaged.

Remove Excess Water

Place the teddy bear in a towel and wrap it up.

Washing machine set to a sensitive setting

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Squeeze the teddy bear to remove excess water into the towel.

Dry the Bear

Air-dry the teddy bear.

Put the bear on a laundry drying rack that is placed in a tub or shower.

Tan teddy bear being dried with black hair dryer

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

you’re able to also drip-dry the bear by hanging it from a clothesline.

Use a fan or blow dryer to finish off the drying.

Run a soft brush through the fur to fluff it up after the teddy bear is fully dry.

Back of tan teddy bear being brushed with soft-bristled brush

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

It is best to surface clean only.

Use mild detergent and water and a soft bristle brush to gently clean the bear’s coat.

Work slowly to avoid pulling out any fur.

Gentle liquid dish detergent squirted into sink with water

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

A handheldsteam cleanermay help loosen any grime or buildup.

When in doubt, call a professional.

There are specific establishments that specialize in restoring older teddy bears.

Tan teddy bear placed in sink full of soapy water for washing

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Some teddy bear companies have a lifetime guarantee and their own teddy bear hospitals.

Therefore, it’s essential to clean it occasionally to maintain its condition and hygiene.

Scrape the excess buildup from the fur as gently as possible.

Tan teddy bear soaking in sudsy water in sink

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Rinse, dry and fluff.

Proceed to washing by machine or hand from there.

Proceed to washing or vacuuming from there.

Tan teddy bear face brushed with soft toothbrush

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Place in the dryer on low or no heat as per the instructions on the label.

This will allow toys to come out smelling fresh without risking damage such as snags or tears.

Tan teddy bear rinsed under running sink water

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Teddy bear wrapped and dried with white towel

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Tan teddy bear laid on drying rack to air dry

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Tan teddy bear brushed with soft brush after drying

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska