Matted Teddy Bear Fix

When I used to rehab dolls for Toys for Tots, we would use spray starch to soften the dolls hair and comb out the matted areas. It takes a lot of time and patience, but at the end, the dolls looked new. I would try the previous hint first and if that doesn't work try the starch.

1 mom found this helpful

I would try using a hair comb and smooth it with a damp washcloth if it looks frizzy.

I have successfully washed my son's favorite stuffed toy in a lingerie bag (regular detergent, stain remover, no fabric softener). I dried it in the bag on low heat. The fur looked about the same as before but cleaner.

Be careful if you put it in the dryer. Most stuffed animal fur is made of synthetics that don't do well in heat. Most newer dryers are so hot, you may melt the fibers and that would cause matting and clumping. Air drying is the best...if the toy isn't so thick it would mold/mildew before it dried. Otherwise, a very cool setting or put it in the sun to dry naturally.

Put it in a pillow case and wash it again on gentle. That might help, or it might not. You're not out anything if it doesn't work. And when you dry it, keep it in the pillow case. If it's the only thing you dry, try to throw a clean tennis ball in with it.

It sounds like you used fabric softener. Fabric softener will mat any fur.

Rewash the bear in a warm water cycle. Add vinegar (to the max line) to the wash like you would fabric softener. Have your washer rinse twice.

Try combing while wet. Dry on low in the dryer. Brush after dry.

Good luck! :)

Fluff it with a hair comb.