How to Clean the Jelkin 25 (Without Ruining the Fluff)
To clean a Jelkin 25: brush the shearling every few weeks with a soft-bristled brush, spot-clean marks with a damp cloth and mild soap, wipe the calfskin trim dry immediately, and store the bag stuffed in its dust bag. No washing machine, no harsh cleaners, no direct heat.
Everyday keeping: the brush
The shearling is dense, so it does not mat the way thin plush does — but a soft-bristled brush every few weeks keeps it looking new. Work in the direction of the pile, gently, and the fluff stands straight back up.
Spot-cleaning marks
- Dampen a clean cloth with water and a drop of mild soap.
- Blot the mark — do not scrub, which disturbs the pile.
- Wipe with a clean damp cloth to lift the soap.
- Air-dry completely, away from radiators and direct sun.
The calfskin trim
The handles, flap and trim are smooth calfskin. Wipe them with a damp cloth to remove oils and dust, then dry immediately so the leather does not mark. Avoid alcohol and household cleaners.
Storing it so the shape holds
Stuff the bag gently with tissue paper to keep its frame — this is the single most important habit for a structured bag — and keep it in the dust bag in a cool, dry place. More in how to clean and store a padded bag without flattening.
What not to do
| Do not | Why |
|---|---|
| Machine-wash | It will wreck the frame and the shearling |
| Use harsh cleaners or bleach | Damages the pile and the calfskin |
| Dry near a radiator | Heat shrinks and stiffens the fibres |
| Store it empty and squashed | The structured body loses its shape |
Keeping a light colour clean
Light colours show marks sooner, so they reward the brushing habit most. See how to keep a light-coloured bag looking new for the full routine.
Frequently asked questions
Can I machine-wash a Jelkin 25?
No. Hand spot-cleaning only — a machine will ruin the frame and shearling.
How do I make the fluff fluffy again?
Brush it gently with a soft-bristled brush in the direction of the pile.
How do I clean the leather trim?
Wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately. No alcohol or harsh cleaners.
How should I store it?
Stuffed with tissue, in the dust bag, in a cool dry place.
Can I use a lint roller?
A soft brush is better; a sticky roller can tug the pile.
Keep reading
- Jelkin 25 review
- Jelkin 25 size guide
- How to clean and store a padded bag
- How to keep a light-coloured bag looking new
For sizing, colourways and what fits inside, see the Jelkin 25 guide.
The Jelkin 25 Cloud
A Birkin-shaped bag in cloud shearling, with a smile. Eleven colours, one silhouette.
Shop all coloursKeep reading
What to do when your bag gets caught in the rain
The return policy is the real product review
Two bags, three bags: when a set makes sense
How to photograph your bag so the colour is honest
Shearling in warm weather: does it actually work
The second-hand question: will anyone want this in five years