If you have a beloved Jellycat plush that’s seen better days, you’ve probably wondered: can I toss it in the washing machine? Keeping these cherished companions clean is important, especially when sticky little hands or life’s mishaps leave behind stains.
Knowing whether Jellycats are machine washable helps protect their softness and extend their cuddly life. In this article, we’ll answer this common question and share the best cleaning methods, step-by-step care tips, and helpful insights for worry-free washing.
Related Video
Are Jellycats Machine Washable? The Complete Care Guide
Jellycat plush toys are some of the softest, cuddliest companions around. If you’re a parent, gift-giver, or simply a plush enthusiast, you may wonder: are Jellycats machine washable? Keeping your plush buddy clean is essential for comfort and hygiene—so let’s unravel the best way to care for these adorable soft toys.
Can You Machine Wash a Jellycat Toy?
The short answer: It’s not generally recommended to machine wash most Jellycat toys. While some hardy soft toys survive a gentle spin, Jellycat themselves advise surface washing for the majority of their plush range.
Here’s why:
– Delicate Fabrics: Jellycats are made from super-soft, unique materials that can lose their fluff or get damaged in a washing machine.
– Stuffing Shift: Tumbling can cause plush stuffing to bunch up, reducing cuddliness.
– Safety Labels: Many Jellycats are only safety-tested for surface washing, especially newer models.
While some owners have successfully machine washed their Jellycats on a cold, gentle cycle, it’s always safest to follow the care instructions on your toy’s label.
Why Machine Washing Isn’t Usually Recommended
Understanding why machine washing is discouraged can help you make the best decision for your plush friend.
Potential Risks
- Loss of Softness: The special fur can matt or become coarse.
- Shape Distortion: Drum agitation may deform delicate features like arms, ears, or tails.
- Loose Seams: Strong spinning may strain stitching, risking rips.
- Accessory Damage: Ribbons, tags, or embroidered details can fray or fade.
Warranty & Safety Concerns
- Not following care instructions may void any warranties or safety certifications.
- Surface washing is often a safety requirement, especially for toys given to infants.
How to Clean Your Jellycat: Step-By-Step Guide
Since machine washing isn’t ideal, here’s how you can keep your Jellycat clean, cuddly, and looking its best.
1. Check the Care Label
Every Jellycat comes with a care tag. Look for:
– “Surface wash only” — means gentle hand cleaning.
– “Dry clean only” — extra delicate, avoid water.
– If machine washing is allowed, it will be clearly stated (rarely the case).
2. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
– A mild, baby-safe detergent or gentle soap
– A soft cloth or sponge
– A clean towel
– A bowl of cold or lukewarm water
– A soft-bristle brush (optional, for fluffing)
3. Surface Washing Method
Steps:
- Dampen your cloth or sponge with water and a tiny drop of detergent.
- Gently dab or blot the soiled areas. Avoid soaking the toy.
- Wipe away any soap residue using a new damp cloth.
- Let your Jellycat air dry. Lay it flat on a towel in a well-ventilated spot, away from direct heat or sunlight.
4. For Deeper Odors or Stains
- Spot Treat: Apply a small amount of diluted detergent directly on stubborn stains, then blot gently.
- Baking Soda Sprinkle: For odor removal, sprinkle the fabric with baking soda. Leave for 15 minutes, then gently brush or shake out.
5. Fluff and Finish
- Once dry, revive your Jellycat’s plushiness by gently brushing with a soft-bristle brush or using your fingers.
Can You Ever Machine Wash a Jellycat?
While not encouraged, some plush lovers have put their Jellycats in the machine—especially older toys, or when deep cleaning is absolutely needed.
If You Do Choose to Machine Wash
Follow these golden rules:
– Use a gentle, cold water cycle.
– Place the Jellycat inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase for extra protection.
– Wash solo (no heavy laundry!)
– Use only a small amount of mild, baby-friendly detergent.
– Skip fabric softener or bleach.
Drying: Never tumble dry. Always air dry and reshape gently as it dries.
Warning: Even with these precautions, machine washing is a risk and might void any care guarantees.
Special Considerations for Infants & Allergies
- For plushies used by infants or young children, stick strictly to surface washing.
- Babies often chew, hug, and sleep with toys. Chemicals or loose threads from improper washing can pose risks.
- For allergy-prone families, regular gentle cleaning of plush toys helps reduce dust mites and allergens.
Tips for Keeping Your Jellycat Fresh in Between Washes
Keeping your Jellycat looking and smelling great isn’t hard. Try these maintenance tips:
- Regular Dusting: Give the plush a light dust with a lint roller or soft brush.
- Sunshine Reviver: A short period in indirect sunlight helps kill bacteria, but avoid long exposure to prevent color fading.
- Quick Spruce-Up: Use a handheld garment steamer to refresh the plush and soften the fur.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to mild soap for all cleaning.
- Storage: Store Jellycats in a dry, clean place when not in use—preferably away from pets.
How to Remove Stains From Your Jellycat
Life happens, and so do sticky fingers and spills. The best approach to stains is to act quickly.
Dealing with Stains
- Milk or Formula: Dab with a damp, soapy cloth ASAP to prevent sour smells.
- Food & Juice: Gently blot—not rub—the stain, then rinse with cold water.
- Ink or Markers: Use a dab of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab, testing first on a hidden area.
Never scrub harshly or saturate the plush, as this can damage it.
Restoring Fluffiness After Cleaning
Sometimes cleaning can flatten your Jellycat’s luxurious fur. To bring back the fluff:
- Wait until the toy is completely dry.
- Brush fur with a clean, soft-bristle baby brush in the direction of the fur.
- Massage the fabric gently between your fingers to plump up the fibers.
Should You Dry Clean a Jellycat?
Dry cleaning is not recommended. The chemicals used can be too harsh, and most dry cleaners are not equipped to handle plush toys designed for cuddling. Always stick to surface washing or, as a last resort, very gentle machine washing.
Advantages of Proper Jellycat Care
Keeping your Jellycat clean and tidy isn’t just about looks! Here’s what proper care does:
- Extends Lifespan: Well-maintained toys last for years, ready to be handed down.
- Preserves Softness: Surface washing keeps that luxurious feel you and your child love.
- Hygiene: Reduces germs, allergens, and odors—especially vital for little ones.
- Maintains Value: Collectors will appreciate tidy, well-cared-for plushies.
Challenges of Washing Plush Toys
Caring for your Jellycat does come with challenges:
- Time Consuming: Air drying and gentle cleaning take more time than machine washing.
- Patience Required: Drying can take up to 24 hours or more, especially for large toys.
- Delicate Parts: Embroidered faces or floppy arms require extra care during cleaning.
- Repeated Soiling: Children’s frequent use means more regular spot cleaning is needed.
With a little planning and routine, these challenges are easy to manage!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put my Jellycat plush in the washing machine if it’s very dirty?
It’s not recommended to machine wash most Jellycat toys. Try surface cleaning first. If absolutely necessary, use a cold, gentle cycle, and protect the plush in a laundry bag—always air dry afterwards. Know that this may risk damaging the toy.
2. How often should I clean my Jellycat?
For stuffed animals used daily, spot-clean once a week and give a thorough surface wash once a month or as needed. Stains or odors should be addressed as soon as possible.
3. My Jellycat lost its softness after washing. What can I do?
Let it dry completely, then gently brush its plush fur with a soft-bristle brush to revive fluffiness. Sometimes, massaging the fabric helps reset the fibers.
4. Is it safe to use disinfectant sprays on Jellycat toys?
Stick to gentle soap and water. Sprays with harsh chemicals may irritate sensitive skin or damage soft fabrics. If you want to sanitize, try a short period in indirect sunlight, which naturally freshens.
5. Are all Jellycat toys surface-wash only?
Most modern Jellycat toys are designed for surface washing only, especially those for infants. Always check the care label—older or special edition toys may have different instructions.
In Summary
Machine washing a Jellycat isn’t generally recommended, as it can damage your plush toy’s softness, shape, and safety. For most, gentle surface washing is the safest and best method. Take time to air dry, brush, and love your Jellycat—it will remain a loyal and cuddly companion for years to come!