Can I Wash My Labubu? The Complete Care Guide

The Short Answer: Yes — But It Depends on Your Labubu

You can wash a Labubu, but the method depends entirely on what type of Labubu you have. The biggest mistake collectors make is using the same technique for all Labubu types — which can leave you with a faded face, matted fur, or worse.

Labubu comes in two main forms: vinyl (hard figure) and plush (soft keychain/doll) — and they need very different care.

Vinyl Labubu (Hard Figures)

These are the standard blind box figures — the ones that stand on their own with a solid plastic body.

Cleaning method: Wipe only, never submerge.

• Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe the surface
• For crevices (between fingers, around the face), use a cotton swab
• For stubborn marks, a soft toothbrush + tiny bit of mild soap works
• Air dry completely before returning to display

Never use: alcohol, acetone (nail polish remover), or harsh chemicals — these will strip the paint right off Labubu's signature face.

Plush Labubu (Soft Keychains & Dolls)

These are the popular keychain versions with fuzzy bodies — the ones hanging from bags worldwide.

Cleaning method: Gentle hand wash

• Use cold water + a small amount of mild detergent (like dish soap or gentle laundry soap)
• Very gently squeeze the Labubu — never wring or twist
• Use a soft toothbrush on dirty spots, being very careful around the vinyl face
• Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains
• Air dry only — never put in a dryer or use hot air

The Most Important Rule: Protect the Face

Labubu's iconic painted face — the nine teeth, the beady eyes, the signature blush — is the most fragile part. Never scrub the face vigorously.

Pro tip from collectors: before washing a plush Labubu, put a small amount of Vaseline around the face edges to create a barrier against water and soap.

What If It Got Damaged While Washing?

Some collectors have had success with minor repairs:

• Paint chips: Use a tiny amount of matching acrylic paint and a fine brush
• Matted fur: While still slightly damp, brush with a pet comb and blow dry on cool setting
• Loose threads: Trim carefully with sharp scissors — don't pull

What About the Washing Machine?

Reddit collectors have mixed results with this one. Some say it worked great in cold water on delicate cycle inside a laundry bag. Others say it ruined the eyes permanently.

If you value your Labubu, skip the washing machine. Hand washing is safer for anything that matters to you.

Daily Care: Skip Washing Altogether

The best way to keep Labubu clean is to avoid needing to wash it:

• Handle with clean, dry hands
• Keep away from food and drinks
• Store in an acrylic display case to protect from dust
• Use a soft brush or compressed air for regular dust removal
• Keep out of direct sunlight — UV causes PVC to yellow over time

How to Tell If Your Labubu Has Electronic Parts

Some special Labubu editions light up or make sounds. These should NEVER be submerged or exposed to any liquid. Wipe the outside with a dry cloth only, and remove batteries before cleaning.

Bottom Line

Vinyl Labubu = wipe only. Plush Labubu = gentle hand wash with cold water. Always protect the face, air dry only, and skip the washing machine unless you're okay with some risk. For rare or valuable Labubu, consider a professional toy cleaning service instead.

Note: Labubu cleaning methods vary by edition and material. Test any cleaning method on a small area first. Collect with care — and enjoy!