Elephant pillows are soft, cuddly plush toys that often double as comfortable pillows for babies, toddlers, and young children. Because kids cuddle them frequently, elephant pillows can collect dust, food crumbs, and everyday dirt. Knowing how to wash an elephant pillow properly helps keep the toy clean, safe, and hygienic for children.
For a complete overview of plush elephant pillows, see our Elephant Pillow Guide, where we explain the different types of elephant pillow toys and how to choose the best one for babies, toddlers, and young children.
Most elephant plush pillows are made from polyester fabric with soft fiber filling. This means they can usually be cleaned with gentle washing methods, but it's important to follow the right steps to prevent damage to the fabric or stuffing.
Check the Care Label First
Before washing any stuffed animal pillow, check the manufacturer’s care label. Some elephant pillows are machine washable, while others may require hand washing or spot cleaning.
If the label recommends hand washing only, avoid placing the pillow in a washing machine to prevent damage to seams or filling.
How to Machine Wash an Elephant Pillow
Many plush elephant pillows can be safely cleaned in a washing machine. Follow these steps to protect the toy during washing:
- Place the elephant pillow inside a laundry bag or pillowcase.
- Use cold water and a gentle cycle.
- Use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics.
- Avoid bleach or harsh cleaning products.
The laundry bag helps protect the pillow’s ears, trunk, and decorative stitching from damage during the wash cycle.
How to Hand Wash an Elephant Pillow
Hand washing is the safest method for delicate plush toys or oversized elephant pillows.
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Gently squeeze the pillow to allow the water to move through the filling.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Avoid twisting or wringing the pillow, which can damage the shape or stitching.
How to Dry an Elephant Pillow
Drying stuffed animal pillows correctly is just as important as washing them.
- Gently squeeze out excess water using a towel.
- Allow the pillow to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
- Reshape the pillow while it dries to maintain its original form.
Some smaller elephant plush pillows may be placed in a dryer on a low heat or air-dry setting, but always check the care label first.
How Often Should You Wash an Elephant Pillow?
For toys used daily by toddlers, washing every few weeks helps keep the pillow clean. If the pillow is mainly decorative, washing it every few months may be enough.
Regular cleaning keeps the plush pillow fresh and helps remove dust and allergens.
Tips for Keeping Elephant Pillows Clean
- Spot clean small stains as soon as they appear.
- Keep the pillow away from food and drinks when possible.
- Use a fabric spray designed for plush toys between washes.
- Store the pillow in a clean, dry area when not in use.
Can You Put a Giant Elephant Pillow in the Washing Machine?
Oversized elephant pillows can sometimes be washed in a washing machine, but this depends on their size and the washing machine capacity. Large plush pillows may become too heavy when wet and can strain a washing machine drum.
If the elephant pillow is very large, hand washing or spot cleaning may be the safer option. Many parents choose to clean large plush pillows in a bathtub using gentle detergent and warm water.
How to Remove Odors From a Plush Elephant Pillow
If a plush elephant pillow develops odors, sprinkling a small amount of baking soda over the surface can help absorb smells. Let the baking soda sit for several hours before gently brushing or vacuuming it off.
This simple method can freshen plush toys between washes and helps keep children's favorite pillows smelling clean and fresh.