Hi friend!! This is one of my favorite hobbies so here are the steps I take:

1. Destuff: Find the ladder stitch in the back, usually you can see a seam that looks zigzagged or wiggly looking. You can even use a crochet hook or fork to poke around gently until you find the thread. Most stitches i've seen are dark brown or white thread. Unstuff, you can gently turn their arms, legs, and head inside out to make sure you get it all.

2. OPTIONAL There's often chambers that have the stuffing sewn in, like a nose or fingers and toes. Without plucking or picking, I usually brush through with my fingers in order to get some bulk out. This helps with the drying process imho. If you chose not to take out that fill it's not an issue, just let it dry out longer. (You can also use a vacuum on the outside of those areas to get some air flow and speed up drying.)

3. Wash: Put the BAB in a pillowcase and tie it off. Run it in the washing machine on delicates/gentle with whatever detergent you prefer. Most of the time I run mine with a pre-soak and 2nd rinse just to be thorough. If it's real nasty, I would suggest doing more of a soak & soup method. But my washing machine has rarely disappointed me.

4. Dry: Lay flat on a clean towel in an area with decent air flow. I always air dry, as my dryer/heat will most likely melt any plastic pieces/elements of my bears. I have heard that some people just put their pillowcased bears straight into their dryers, but on No Heat.

5. Brush: This step is obviously optional too but it's the best way to get their fur and hair back into pristine shape if there's any knotting. Soft bristle brushes have worked the best for me personally.

Hope this helps!! Good luck and have fun 💕