Soft Toys and Eczema – Why Cuddly Friends Might Be Making Skin Worse
Teddy bears, plush animals, and soft toys are comforting companions—especially for children. But for kids (and adults) with eczema, these cuddly friends might be hiding something less comforting: eczema triggers.
While soft toys aren’t bad by nature, they can collect dust, allergens, and irritants that make eczema worse. Here’s why soft toys can affect eczema and what you can do to keep the hugs without the flare-ups.
🧸 Why Soft Toys Can Be a Problem for Eczema
Soft toys are made of fabric and stuffing—perfect for trapping particles like:
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Dust mites
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Pollen
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Pet dander
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Mould spores
These particles act as allergens and irritants that can worsen atopic eczema, especially when children sleep with their toys or keep them close to the skin for long periods.
👶 Common Signs a Soft Toy Might Be Triggering Eczema
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Flare-ups mostly appear on the face, neck, arms, or hands (where the toy is often touched or held)
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Eczema seems worse in the morning, especially after sleeping with a toy
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Skin improves when the toy is removed or washed frequently
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Your child also suffers from allergies or asthma
🐾 The Dust Mite Problem
Dust mites love warm, humid places—like soft toys, pillows, and bedding. Their droppings and body parts are a major cause of allergic reactions, and they can trigger itching, inflammation, and eczema flare-ups, especially in children.
Soft toys that aren’t cleaned often or that sit on the bed all day can become a breeding ground for these microscopic pests.
✅ How to Make Soft Toys More Eczema-Friendly
You don’t have to throw away your child’s favourite teddy—just take a few smart steps to reduce the risk:
1. Wash regularly – Clean soft toys in hot water (60°C if safe for the toy) every 1–2 weeks to kill dust mites.
2. Freeze overnight – Pop the toy in a sealed bag in the freezer for 24 hours to kill dust mites, then wash as normal.
3. Choose washable toys – Opt for soft toys that can be machine-washed and avoid ones with delicate fabrics or non-washable parts.
4. Limit how many are on the bed – Stick to one or two bedtime toys and keep the rest stored elsewhere.
5. Dry thoroughly – Make sure toys are completely dry before giving them back, as damp fabric can encourage mould growth.
6. Avoid scented toys – Some come with added fragrances, which can irritate eczema-prone skin.
Extra Tip: Store Wisely
When not in use, store toys in sealed containers or toy boxes to reduce dust build-up.
Final Thoughts
Soft toys bring joy, comfort, and security—especially for young children. But for those with eczema, they can also be a hidden source of irritation. With a few simple hygiene habits, you can help your child keep their favourite cuddly friend without worsening their eczema.