Stop putting Labubus on your bag – 4 reasons they're bacteria magnets and how to keep them clean

It’s official, we’re all coo coo for Labubu. People are determined to get their hands on one of the adorable little monsters, which are taking the fluffy toy top spot from the sought-after Jellycats.

With their toothy grins and furry coats much sought after by both children and the fashion set, fights in UK shops this week have led to them being pulled from the shelves – and there's no stock to be seen at creators, Pop Mart, or on its Amazon store. (Don't worry, Rihanna and Dua Lipa already have theirs, hanging off their Birkins.)

But when someone in the office posted yet another picture of one of these toys swinging from a designer handbag, I couldn’t help but state the obvious: “That’s going to get gross so quickly.” To me, you might as well strap the Labubu to the front of your car and drive around. Maybe it’s not that bad, but you get my drift. They're germ magnets.

Colleagues wanted to know more; why is it so bad to hang these fluffy toys from your bag? Here's why they're a breeding ground for bacteria and what you can do to keep the viral little gremlins clean.

1. Crumbs and spills

First of all, our handbags occasionally sit on the floor. In a restaurant, that means your Labubu is resting among crumbs and spills, collecting both in its fur. You could use a handbag hook when you’re sitting at a table, or even a spare chair, but these options aren’t always convenient, and sooner or later, you’ll have to leave it somewhere you’d rather not.

For instance, if there’s no hook in the bathroom, it sits on the floor with… other kinds of residue. That's also why I try to keep my handbag off the bed at all costs.

2. Dirt and abrasion

Then there’s the bumping and scraping against walls to think about. We might not notice it, but occasionally our handbags catch surfaces as we walk around – and with a protruding Labubu, that makes it an easier target.

This means dirt and scuffs are a constant hazard, and you risk abrasion in the worst case scenario; say you were travelling along an escalator with your Labubu unknowingly pressed against the metal.

3. Weathering

We're no strangers to rain in this country, and it’s not good news for your Labubu. If its furry exterior gets wet, or even just damp, that gives bacteria a chance to grow, resulting in musty smells and a mouldy Labubu.

4. Smells

Speaking of smells, your Labubu can easily take these on board too, just like your clothes. So, if you're planning to show it off at a BBQ, you might want to have a re-think. Smoke and cooking smells, as well as mouldy smells, can all be carried by your fluffy bag accessory, and removing these isn’t as easy as just bunging it in the washing machine. Speaking of which...

How to clean your Labubu

If you really can't resist popping one of the little guys on your bag, our advice is to spot clean only.

The washing machine is too aggressive for cleaning your Labubu, even if you take every care with a mesh laundry bag, so stick to washing by hand instead. Use cold water and a mild laundry detergent designed for delicates, such as Ecover Delicate Laundry Detergent.

Apply the solution directly using a microfibre cloth. Rinse the area with a damp cloth once the stain is lifted and leave to dry. Use a cotton ear bud to carefully wipe the hands, feet and face over with the same solution. Leave to air dry outside.