Bon Ton Toys Plush and Pet Hair: Simple Cleaning Solutions

Quick Answer

For most Bon Ton Toys plush, a lint roller or piece of packing tape removes surface pet hair quickly and safely. For deeper hair trapped in terry or corduroy, a soft-bristle brush followed by a hand wash is the safest route. Never use a machine wash or dryer, as it can distort stuffing and damage delicate fabrics.

Pet hair has a way of weaving itself into plush fabrics, especially the looped terry and ribbed corduroy used across the Miffy range. If your child carries their favorite Miffy everywhere, you've probably noticed that the toy becomes a magnet for cat and dog fur. The good news: you don't need harsh chemicals or a washing machine to get it clean again.

This guide walks through the most common pet-hair problems, what causes them, and the exact steps to fix them without ruining the soft hand-feel that makes Bon Ton Toys plush special. We'll also tell you when to stop and consider a different approach.

Why Pet Hair Sticks to Plush (and Why It's Worse on Some Fabrics)

Plush fabrics are designed to be soft, which often means they have a textured surface that grabs onto loose hair. Terry cloth, like the fabric on Miffy Terry, has thousands of tiny loops that trap fur deep in the pile. Corduroy, used on Miffy ECO Corduroy, has ridges that can hide hair in the channels. Smoother plush is easier to wipe clean, but even then, static can pull hair toward the toy.

The type of filling also matters. Bon Ton Toys uses 100% recycled PET filling in many products, which is lightweight and can shift slightly. That's not a problem for cleaning, but it means you should avoid soaking the toy excessively or wringing it out, as that can clump the filling. Hand washing is always the recommended method for these plush.

• Terry and corduroy hold pet hair more stubbornly than smooth plush.
• Static from synthetic fabrics can attract hair even when the toy is sitting still.
• Recycled PET filling should not be machine washed or dried.

The Safest Tools for Removing Pet Hair from Stuffed Animals

Start with the least invasive method: a lint roller. Any standard adhesive lint roller works well on the surface of plush. Roll it gently over the toy, pressing just enough to make contact. For hair that's woven into terry loops, a piece of wide packing tape can be pressed on and peeled off to lift embedded fur. Avoid brushing too hard with a stiff brush, as it can pull the fabric.

If the hair is really stuck, a soft-bristle baby brush or a clean toothbrush can help loosen it. Work in small circles, then follow with a lint roller. For corduroy, brush along the ridges, not against them, to avoid flattening the fabric. A rubber glove or a damp sponge can also create friction that gathers hair into clumps.

• Lint roller first: gentle, fast, and safe for all fabrics.
• Packing tape for embedded hair in terry or tight pile.
• Soft brush or toothbrush to loosen hair before rolling.

When and How to Hand Wash a Pet-Haired Plush

If rolling and brushing leave behind oils, dander, or a lingering smell, a hand wash is the next step. Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of mild liquid soap. Submerge the plush and gently squeeze the water through the fabric. Do not scrub or twist. For terry and corduroy, focus on the surface, as agitation can distort the texture.

Rinse thoroughly with cool water until no soap remains. Press the toy between a clean towel to remove excess water, then reshape it and let it air dry away from direct heat. Bon Ton Toys explicitly recommends hand washing only for Miffy Terry and the Teddy Shopping Bag, so this method is safe when done carefully. Never put these plush in a washing machine or dryer.

• Use cool water and mild soap; hot water can shrink or damage fibers.
• Never wring or twist—press gently between towels.
• Air dry completely before giving the toy back to a child.

Preventing Future Pet Hair Buildup

A few habits can keep pet hair from taking over. Store plush toys in a closed bin or on a shelf when not in use, especially if your pet sheds heavily. If the toy travels in a backpack or stroller, consider a small stuff sack for protection. Regular quick passes with a lint roller—once a week—prevent hair from working its way deep into the fabric.

For homes with multiple pets, a dedicated lint roller near the toy area makes cleanup effortless. You can also keep a soft brush handy for corduroy items like the Miffy Keychain ECO Corduroy, which is small enough to collect hair in its ridges. A little prevention goes a long way toward keeping your Bon Ton Toys plush looking new.

• Store plush in a closed container or shelf when not in use.
• Use a lint roller weekly to stop hair from embedding.
• Keep a soft brush for corduroy and terry textures.

Diagnose Your Pet Hair Problem

• Loose hair on the surface: Hair sits on top of the fabric and comes off easily with a lint roller or tape. Use a lint roller weekly to prevent buildup. No washing needed.
• Hair embedded in terry or corduroy: Hair is woven into the loops or ridges and doesn't lift with a simple roll. Loosen with a soft brush, then hand wash with mild soap and cool water. Air dry.
• Persistent odor or dander: The plush smells like pet or feels greasy even after brushing. Hand wash is necessary. If the toy is heavily soiled or damaged, consider replacing it.

Product Facts That Matter for Cleaning

• Miffy Terry - 23 cm - 9: The items of the Miffy Terry Collection are truly the softest Miffy's ever made. The fabric feels like a luxury towel-y terry and has a flexible stuffing which makes them the best cuddle partners, even for the tiniest babies. You can wash her, but we don't recommend using a machine. Hand wash only. The towel-like terry loops trap pet hair easily, so a lint roller and gentle hand wash are the safest methods. Machine washing is not recommended.
• Miffy ECO Corduroy - 50 cm - 20: Miffy Corduroy is the perfect plush gift for new babies and children. Not to mention a beautiful addition to any interior. All Miffy soft toys by Bon Ton Toys are handmade, with only the best materials and contain 100% recycled PET filling. The corduroy ridges can hide pet hair, and the recycled PET filling means you should avoid soaking or wringing. Hand wash only to protect the filling and fabric.
• Miffy Keychain ECO Corduroy - 10 cm - 4: Say hello to the lovely Corduroy Miffy's by Bon Ton Toys! And this keychain is a great accessory for your backpack! All Miffy soft toys by Bon Ton Toys are handmade, with only the best materials and contain 100% recycled PET filling. Small corduroy items like this keychain collect pet hair in their ridges. A soft brush and lint roller are ideal for quick cleaning without wetting the filling.

Pet hair doesn't have to mean the end of your child's favorite plush. With a lint roller, a soft brush, and occasional hand washing, you can keep Bon Ton Toys Miffy and other plush looking and feeling fresh. Just remember: no machine washing or drying, and always air dry completely before cuddling again.