Looking at that old bean bag with stains and wondering if you can throw it in the wash? You’re not alone. Washing bean bags keeps them fresh, but you’ve got to do it right or you’ll ruin the cover or the filling. I’ll break down exactly what to do, what not to do, and how to keep yours clean for years.
Check What Type You Have
First things first: not all bean bags can be washed the same way. Some have removable covers. Some don’t. Some fillings can handle moisture. Some can’t.
If your bean bag has a removable cover, you can usually machine wash it. If it doesn’t, you’ll have to clean it by hand or spot clean it. This one check saves you from wrecking your machine or your bag.
So unzip it if you can. See if there’s an inner liner keeping the filling in place. If yes, good news: you’re halfway to clean.
If you’re looking for something easier to maintain, this inflatable bean bag sofa wipes clean with just a damp cloth and doesn’t absorb moisture like traditional fabric bean bags.
How to Wash a Removable Cover
If you’re lucky enough to have a removable cover, you’re in for an easy clean. Treat it like washing a big hoodie.
Take off the cover and empty out all the beans or foam into a big bag. Don’t wash the filling.
Next, check the care tag. Most cotton or polyester covers are safe in the machine. Cold water, gentle cycle, mild detergent. No bleach, no softener, no tumble dryer unless the label says yes.
I always air-dry mine to be safe. Hang it somewhere shady so the sun doesn’t fade the colour. If it’s a tough stain, soak the cover first in a tub with warm water and a bit of stain remover. A soft brush helps with ground-in dirt. Once dry, pour the filling back in slowly. It can get messy, so a funnel helps.
How to Clean a Non-Removable Cover
Got a bean bag that doesn’t unzip? That’s where spot cleaning comes in handy.
You can’t stick the whole thing in a machine, so you need to clean it on the outside without soaking the inside filling.
Grab a damp cloth, a mild soap or upholstery cleaner, and a soft brush. Lightly dab the stain. Don’t scrub too hard or you’ll rough up the fabric. For bad stains like juice or pet mess, mix a bit of vinegar with water, or use baking soda to lift smells.
Vinyl bean bags are even easier. A bit of warm water and dish soap does wonders. Faux fur covers need extra care. Use a vacuum first to lift hair or crumbs, then a cloth with mild soap. Let it air dry completely so mould doesn’t sneak in.
Got Tough Stains? Here’s What to Do
Sometimes, a little dab won’t cut it. Maybe you spilled red wine or the dog claimed it. Here’s the trick.
Deep stains need a bit more muscle, but you still shouldn’t drown the whole thing.
Sprinkle baking soda right on the spot and let it sit for 15 minutes. Vacuum it off. Still stained? Use an upholstery cleaner or mix dish soap with warm water. Gently scrub in circles, then dab dry with a clean towel.
Smelly bean bag? Try sprinkling more baking soda over the whole thing and vacuum again. Works like magic for musty smells.
When You Shouldn’t Wash It
Not every bean bag likes a big soak. Here’s when to skip the wash.
Never throw the whole bean bag—filling and all—into the machine. It’ll wreck your washer and the filling won’t dry right, which leads to bad smells or mould.
Giant bean bags are the same. Don’t try to cram it in the tub unless you can fully dry it after. If you must, remove as much filling as you can first. If it’s way too big, a professional cleaner might be worth it.
Quick Care to Keep Washing Easy
Good care means less washing, so treat your bean bag right day to day.
Vacuum it every week to pick up dust and crumbs. This stops dirt from sinking in and saves you spot cleaning later.
If you snack on your bean bag, toss a blanket or cover on it. Spills stay on the blanket instead of the chair. Keep sharp stuff away so you don’t poke holes. If the bag’s looking flat, top up the beads so you’re not slumping on an old pancake.
If you have kids or pets, a removable cover is your best friend. Easier to wash, easier to keep fresh.
Keep It Simple, Keep It Clean
So can bean bags be washed? Yes, if you follow the steps. Removable covers make life easy. Non-removable covers just need a bit of spot cleaning and quick care. Don’t drench the filling. Don’t rush it in a machine. Do the basics right, and you’ll sit comfy and clean.
Got a big stain right now? Grab that damp cloth and handle it before it sets in. Future you will thank you.