How to Properly Clean and Restore Your Ty Beanie Boos

At Beanie Boos Australia, we understand that a Ty plush is often more than just a toy—it is a constant companion. Whether it is a trip to the grocery store, the library, or a long car ride, these friends are frequently glued to a child’s hip. Naturally, with such frequent use, accidents are bound to happen. From grape juice spills at snack time to spaghetti sauce stains during dinner, a tarnished plush can lead to quite a bit of distress for a young collector.

When the tears start flowing at the realisation that a favourite Beanie Boo might be ruined, it is important not to panic. Restoring your plush to mint condition is possible if you follow the correct procedures. Here is our professional advice on the dos and don’ts of caring for your Ty Beanie Boos and other Ty plush products.

Understanding general plush care

Before attempting a deep clean, it is essential to establish a routine for general maintenance. We recommend checking the care label or the Ty website for specific instructions first.

For routine dust removal, a lint roller or a vacuum with a brush attachment works wonders to clear away surface debris.

If you notice loose seams or thinning stuffing, it is best to perform repairs immediately before further damage occurs. Always ensure that any products used during the cleaning process are child-safe to maintain a healthy play environment.

What to avoid: The "Don’ts" of Ty Beanie care

To preserve the velvety-soft texture and the integrity of the iconic sparkly eyes, there are several common cleaning methods to avoid:

• Washing Machines and Dryers: Spin cycles, high heat, and abrasive detergents are not a good combination for delicate plush toys.
• Bleach: Do not use it to clean Ty products. 
• Abrasive Wipes: Common household disinfecting wipes often contain chemicals that can cause discolouration.
• Dry Cleaners: Professional dry cleaning involves industrial chemicals and machinery that are not "plush-friendly." 
• Dishwashers: Don't do this.

How to properly clean Your Ty Beanie plush

The iconic Ty heart tag instructs owners to "surface clean only." This means spot cleaning is your most effective tool for restoration. We recommend testing any method on a small, inconspicuous area first.

1. Baby Wipes: For minor marks, a gentle dab with a baby wipe is often enough to lift the dirt without soaking the fabric.
2. Cold Washcloth: Use a damp cloth or paper towel with cold water. Wring it out well and blot the smeared spot until the stain lifts.
3. Baking Soda: If you are dealing with a greasy or oily stain, a small amount of baking soda can help absorb the oil before you spot clean with a damp cloth.
4. Handwashing: If the entire Beanie is soiled, a careful handwash with cool water and mild soap is permissible. Always air dry the toy and use a soft-bristled brush to fluff the fur back to its original glory.
5. Vacuuming: If your Beanie has been dropped in a sandbox or dirt, vacuum the surface first to remove loose particles before applying any moisture.

The importance of air drying

Regardless of the method used, always allow your Ty plush to air dry. You can start by patting the character with a dry towel to absorb excess moisture, but avoid all external heat sources.

While these rules apply to almost all Ty products, the only exception is Ty plush socks, which are designed to be laundered in a standard washing machine to handle grass stains and dirt.

When to consider a replacement

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, a stain may be too stubborn to remove. If your Beanie Boo cannot be restored, you can find a wide range of current stock—including Beanie Babies, Beanie Boos, and Squishy Beanies, at www.beanieboosaustralia.com.

Would you like me to help you find a specific replacement character for your collection?