Care Guide for Down Jackets: How To Wash and Store

March 3, 2023

Down jackets are a popular choice for winter outerwear due to their excellent insulation properties. However, with frequent use, they can quickly accumulate dirt, stains, and lose their shape and warmth. To keep your down jackets looking and performing their best, it's essential to know how to properly care for them. In this care guide, we'll share some valuable tips on how to wash and store your down jackets safely and effectively. From selecting the right washing method to drying and storing them correctly, we'll cover all the essential steps to help you take care of your down jackets like a pro. So, let's get started on learning how to keep your favorite down jackets in excellent condition for years to come.

The Right Way To Wash Down Jackets

Washing Down Jackets require special care to maintain their insulation properties. Here are the steps to follow to wash a Down Jacket:
Machine Washing Down Jackets

1. Close all the zippers and pockets of the jacket before washing.
2. Place the jacket in the washing machine alone, with some tennis balls or clean sneakers. The tennis balls or sneakers will help to fluff up the down filling during the washing cycle.
3. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, fabric softeners or any harsh chemicals.
4. Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all the detergent is washed out of the jacket.
5. Once the washing cycle is completed, remove the jacket from the washer and gently squeeze out the excess water. Do not twist or wring the jacket as it can damage the down filling.

1. Fill a sink or bathtub with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, fabric softeners or any harsh chemicals.
2. Place the jacket in the water and gently scrub it for a few minutes. Be sure not to twist or wring the jacket as it can damage the down filling.
3. Drain the soapy water and refill the sink or bathtub with cold water to rinse the jacket. Gently press the jacket to remove excess water. Repeat this process until all the soap is removed.
4. Once the rinsing process is completed, remove the jacket from the sink or bathtub and gently squeeze out the excess water. Do not twist or wring the jacket as it can damage the down filling.

1. After washing, the jacket should be air-dried. Hang the jacket on a hanger or lay it flat on a clean surface to dry.
2. Avoid using a dryer as it can damage the down filling. If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and add a few clean tennis balls or sneakers to help fluff up the down filling.
3. Make sure the jacket is completely dry before storing it away.

How Often To Wash Down Jackets

Down jackets should be washed as needed, but not too frequently. Excessive washing can damage the feathers and make the jacket less effective at keeping you warm.

The Right Way To Store Down Jackets

How to Hang Down Jackets:

1. Choose a sturdy hanger that can support the weight of the jacket.
2. Hang the jacket by the shoulders on the hanger.
3. Zip up the jacket to help maintain its shape.

1. Place the jacket on a flat surface.
2. Zip up the jacket to help maintain its shape.
3. Starting at the bottom of the jacket, tightly roll the jacket up towards the hood.
4. Store the rolled jacket in a dry place away from direct sunlight.

Expert Advice for Maintaining The Quality Of Your Down Jackets

To maintain the insulation properties of a down jacket, there are several pro tips to follow. First, always follow the care label instructions to avoid damaging the jacket. Second, avoid washing the jacket too frequently, as excessive washing can damage the feathers and make the jacket less effective at keeping you warm. Third, always close the zippers and pockets of the jacket before washing to prevent any damage or snagging. Fourth, invest in mesh bags or a proper drying rack to protect the jacket during the washing and drying process. Fifth, air-dry the jacket and avoid using a dryer, especially at high heat, as it can damage the down filling. Sixth, for new clothes, use salt as a mordant or dye-fixer to prevent color bleeding. Finally, to store the jacket, either hang it on a sturdy hanger by the shoulders or tightly roll it up starting at the bottom of the jacket towards the hood, and store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight.

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