How to Care for a Memory Bear (Cleaning, Display & Storage)

A memory bear is not an ordinary stuffed animal. It is sewn from a loved one's actual clothing, which means the fabric is irreplaceable and often decades old. Cared for gently, a memory bear will last for generations. This guide comes straight from our workshop, where Kim hand-sews every bear we make.

Can I wash a memory bear in the washing machine?

No. A memory bear should never go through a washing machine or dryer. Bears are sewn from mixed fabrics with different shrink rates, filled with polyester stuffing that clumps when soaked, and often finished with embroidered details. Machine agitation can warp the shape, fade the original fabric, and stress seams. Spot cleaning is the safe method, and it handles nearly everything a bear encounters.

How do I spot clean a memory bear?

Mix a small amount of mild soap into cool water, dampen a soft cloth, and gently dab the soiled area. Do not scrub or soak. Follow with a second cloth dampened in plain water to lift the soap, then press with a dry towel. Always test on a hidden spot first, such as under an arm, especially on older or dyed fabrics. Let the bear air dry completely away from heat and sunlight.

How do I freshen a memory bear that smells musty?

Let the bear air out in a dry room away from direct sunlight for a day or two; moving air does most of the work. For stubborn mustiness, place the bear in a container near an open box of baking soda without letting the powder touch the fabric. Avoid spraying fabric fresheners directly on the bear, because they can leave rings on older fabric and dampen the stuffing.

What if the bear has embroidered details?

Many of our bears carry an embroidered name, date, or footpad detail. Never scrub stitching. If the embroidered area needs cleaning, dab around and across it lightly with a barely damp cloth and let it air dry. The stitching itself is colorfast polyester thread, but scrubbing can pull loops loose from the surrounding fabric.

How should I display a memory bear?

Keep the bear out of direct sunlight, which fades clothing fabric faster than almost anything else, and away from heat sources like radiators and sunny windowsills. A shelf, bed, or memory corner in normal indoor light is perfect. If the bear shares space with pets, display it above their reach; pet claws are the most common damage we see.

How do I store a memory bear long term?

Store the bear clean and completely dry in a breathable cotton bag or a pillowcase, in a cool, dry place. Do not seal it in plastic, which traps moisture and can cause mildew or yellowing. If the bear will be stored for years, take it out once or twice a year to air, check, and gently reshape.

Can a child sleep with a memory bear?

Memory bears are made to be hugged, and for older children that is exactly the point. For babies and toddlers under three, treat the bear as a keepsake to display rather than a crib toy, since keepsake bears can include buttons and other small original details from the clothing. If the bear is intended for a young child, mention that when ordering and Kim can leave off small attachments.

What if my memory bear needs a repair?

If a seam loosens or stuffing shifts over the years, do not attempt major repairs on the irreplaceable fabric yourself. Contact us through the custom order form or stop by the shop; since Kim sewed the bear, she can almost always repair it invisibly.

Can you make a memory bear from my loved one's clothing?

Yes. Kim hand-sews custom memory bears from clothing you provide, using just 1 to 2 garments per bear. Memory bears start around $60, and you can order a custom memory bear online or start with the custom order form.

How long does a memory bear take, and can I mail clothing in?

Production takes about 2 to 4 weeks once your clothing arrives. You can mail garments from anywhere in the US to Krafty Bandit, 127 Speer Street, Belle Vernon, PA 15012, or drop them off in person. Finished bears ship nationwide.

Deciding between a bear and a quilt?

If you are still choosing which keepsake fits your family, our memory bear vs memory quilt guide compares cost, clothing needed, and how each one is used. For quilts we already make, see how to care for a handmade quilt.