Jellycat Care Tips

Jellycat toys are known for their cute softness and endearing designs, making them precious companions for children and adults alike. Proper care will ensure they remain huggable and in good condition for years to come. Here’s how you can gently maintain and repair them at home.

Wash with Care

Jellycat recommend surface washing for most of their toys, as full immersion can damage delicate stuffing or affect the plush texture. To clean safely:

• Use a damp cloth with mild soap and gently wipe the surface.

• Avoid harsh detergents, as they can degrade the fibres.

• For stubborn marks, a soft clean toothbrush can help lift particles of dirt without causing excessive wear.

If machine washing is unavoidable (e.g. after heavy soiling), secure the toy inside a knotted pillowcase or laundry bag and wash on a gentle, cold cycle with a mild detergent. However, be aware that this may alter the softness and stuffing distribution. If you’re feeling brave, open up the back seam and remove the stuffing before washing - this can help stop the polyester smelling funky if it stays damp too long.

Dry Properly to Prevent Damage

Never tumble dry a Jellycat toy, as the heat can shrink fabrics and affect the stuffing, making it clump (if you’ve ever washed a pillow you’ll know what I mean!)

• Press out excess water gently with a towel—do not wring.

• Reshape the toy while damp to maintain its original form.

• Allow it to air dry naturally, preferably lying flat in a warm, well-ventilated area. A hairdryer on a cool, low setting can speed up drying if necessary.

Brush to Restore Softness

Over time Jellycat toys lose their signature plush texture. To help restore their softness:

• Use a soft-bristled brush (such as a baby hairbrush or a clean toothbrush) to fluff up the fibres gently.

• Brushing in small circular motions can help lift flattened or matted areas.

It’s important not to refluff your toy frequently as each time will damage the fibres a little. I tend to leave them in their lived in condition, knowing that they will return to it very quickly!

Restuff

Over time, stuffing can break down into small clumps, making the toy look flat and less cuddly. To refresh its shape:

• Carefully open a seam (often at the back or bottom) with a seam ripper. You will need to look very carefully for the seam as the fur hides it well and its easy to make a hole by accident.

• Add high-quality hi-loft polyester stuffing or polyfil little by little, evenly distributing it to maintain the toy’s original proportions. Be careful not to over stuff, which will put pressure on the seams, but also bear in mind that it will compress with snuggling, so it’s ok to overfill a little.

• Close the seam using a ladder stitch for an invisible finish.

If you don’t feel confident to do this then we offer a restuff/clean service and can do this for you!

Preventative Care to Extend Lifespan

To keep a Jellycat toy in the best condition for as long as possible:

• Avoid excessive exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause fading.

• Keep away from pets that may see it as a chew toy or tasty snack…!

• Rotate well-loved toys if possible, giving them ‘rest days’ to reduce wear.

With these care techniques, your Jellycat friend can stay clean, cuddly, and in excellent condition for years to come. Minor home repairs help preserve precious toys, ensuring they remain cherished companions well into the future. If your Jellycat (or other cuddly) has gone beyond this point then do visit our Repair Service page to see how we can help.