Plush Care Guide: How to Wash and Refresh Your Critical Role Plush

Quick answer

For most Critical Role plush, start with spot cleaning using a mild detergent and a damp cloth. If the whole plush needs a refresh, hand-wash it in cool water with a gentle soap, then press out moisture and air-dry away from direct heat. Always check the care tag first, and never put a plush in a hot dryer unless the label explicitly allows it.

Your Critical Role plush has been through epic battles, marathon campaign sessions, and maybe a few too many hugs. Over time, dust, oils, and the occasional snack mishap can make even the most beloved plush look a little worse for wear. The good news: you can clean most plush safely at home without losing that soft, huggable feel or the embroidered details that make it special.

This guide walks you through the exact steps to wash and refresh your plush, from a quick spot clean to a full hand-wash. You'll also learn the common mistakes that damage stuffing, fade colors, or mat the fur, plus how to dry your plush so it comes out looking as adventurous as ever.

Before you wash: check the tag and assess the plush

Every plush is different, so the first step is always to read the care tag. If it says surface wash only, stick to spot cleaning. If it says hand wash, you can proceed with a gentle bath. If it says machine wash, you still need to use a mesh bag and cold water to protect the fabric and stitching. Ignoring the tag is the fastest way to ruin a favorite collectible.

Next, inspect your plush for loose seams, holes, or fragile attachments like small accessories or glued-on details. Washing can worsen existing damage, so repair any tears with a few quick stitches before getting the plush wet. Also check for electronics or sound chips, which should never be submerged. If your plush has any of these, spot cleaning is the safer route.

• Test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first, like the back or bottom, to check for color bleeding.
• Remove any clothing or accessories if they are detachable and wash them separately.

Spot cleaning: the safest method for most plush

For everyday freshening, spot cleaning is your best bet. Mix a few drops of mild liquid detergent, like dish soap or a gentle laundry detergent, with cool water in a bowl. Dip a clean white cloth or soft sponge into the sudsy water, wring it out so it's barely damp, and gently dab the soiled areas. Work from the outside of the stain inward to avoid spreading it.

After cleaning, wipe the area with a clean damp cloth to remove soap residue. If the plush has long fur, use a soft brush to fluff it back up while it's still slightly damp. Let it air-dry completely before cuddling or displaying. This method is ideal for plush that can't get fully wet and for quick refreshes between deeper washes.

• Never soak the entire plush in a sink unless the tag specifically allows hand washing.
• Avoid scrubbing aggressively, which can mat the fur and distort the shape.

Hand washing: a gentle bath for a thorough clean

If your plush needs a deeper clean, hand washing is the safest full-immersion method. Fill a clean sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the plush and gently squeeze it to work the soapy water through the fabric. Don't wring or twist, as that can damage stuffing and seams. Let it soak for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Rinse the plush under cool running water until no soap remains. You can also refill the basin with clean water and gently squeeze the plush to rinse. Be patient, as residual soap can attract dirt and irritate sensitive skin. Once rinsed, gently press the plush between two clean towels to remove excess water. Never wring it out.

• Use only cool or lukewarm water; hot water can shrink fabric and fade colors.
• If the plush is extra dirty, you can repeat the wash cycle, but keep it gentle.

Drying tips: protect the shape and softness

Air-drying is the safest way to dry almost any plush. Lay the plush on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Direct sun can fade colors, and radiators or hair dryers can melt synthetic fibers or warp the shape. Turn the plush occasionally so it dries evenly, and fluff it with your hands as it dries to prevent clumping.

If the care tag allows tumble drying, use the lowest heat setting and place the plush inside a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag to protect it. Even then, check it every few minutes. Most plush will take 24 to 48 hours to air-dry completely, depending on size and humidity. Make sure it's fully dry before storing, or mildew can develop.

• Never put a plush in a hot dryer unless the tag explicitly says it's safe.
• To speed up drying, you can place a fan near the plush, but avoid pointing it directly at the face if it has glued-on details.

Refreshing without washing: quick fixes for minor issues

Sometimes your plush just needs a quick pick-me-up, not a full wash. For dust and loose debris, use a lint roller or piece of packing tape wrapped around your hand to gently lift surface dirt. For odors, sprinkle baking soda over the plush, let it sit for 15 minutes, then brush it off. A fabric refresher spray made for delicate fabrics can also help, but test it first.

If the fur looks matted, a soft-bristled brush or a clean toothbrush can help separate the fibers. For stubborn tangles, lightly mist with water and brush gently. These methods are great for plush that can't get wet or when you need a fast refresh before displaying your collection.

• Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage fabric and colors.
• For plush with embroidery, be extra gentle around the stitched areas to avoid snagging.

Step-by-step plush cleaning process

1. Check the care tag: Read the tag to see if your plush is surface wash only, hand wash, or machine wash. This determines your entire approach. If the tag is missing, treat it as surface wash only to be safe.
2. Pre-treat stains and repair damage: Spot-treat any visible stains with a mild detergent and water. Sew up any loose seams or holes before washing to prevent stuffing from escaping. Skipping repairs can turn a small tear into a big mess in the wash.
3. Choose your cleaning method: For light dirt, spot clean with a damp cloth. For a deeper clean, hand wash in cool water with mild detergent. Only machine wash if the tag explicitly allows it, using a mesh bag and cold water. When in doubt, hand washing is gentler than machine washing.
4. Rinse thoroughly: If hand washing, rinse under cool running water or in a basin of clean water until no soap remains. Gently squeeze, never wring. Soap residue attracts dirt and can irritate skin, so rinse until the water runs clear.
5. Remove excess water: Press the plush between two clean, dry towels to absorb as much water as possible. Do not twist or wring. This step speeds up drying and helps maintain the plush's shape.
6. Air-dry away from heat: Lay the plush flat on a dry towel in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat. Turn it occasionally and fluff as it dries. Most plush take 24-48 hours to dry completely; ensure it's fully dry before storing.
7. Fluff and brush: Once dry, use your hands or a soft brush to fluff the fur and restore the plush's original shape. This final touch makes your plush look refreshed and ready for adventure.

Critical Role plush care essentials

• Critical Role Pin No. 4 - Bells Hells Crest: Enamel pin made of zinc alloy and hard enamel, size 1.3 x 1.5 inches, with butterfly clasp closure. If you display your plush with pins, remove them before washing to avoid scratching the plush fabric or damaging the pin's finish.
• Critical Role Chibi Pin No. 28 - Laudna: Silver plated zinc alloy and hard enamel pin, size 1.75 inches, with embossed Critical Role logo on the back. Detachable accessories like this pin should be taken off before any cleaning to prevent rust or fabric snags.

With a little patience and the right technique, you can keep your Critical Role plush clean, soft, and ready for whatever adventure comes next. Always start with the gentlest method, respect the care tag, and avoid heat and harsh chemicals. Your plush will thank you with years of cozy companionship.