How to wash a feather jacket without damaging it? A practical guide.
A down jacket is an irreplaceable piece of your wardrobe – especially if you're looking for warm clothing for mountain expeditions or winter fun on the slopes. It's a great investment in comfort and durability for several seasons, but you need to take good care of your down jacket. Find out how to wash a down jacket to maintain its insulating properties.
Preparing a down jacket for washing
Want to wash a down jacket? Start with proper preparation to effectively protect both the outer material and the filling. Learn what to do before washing a down jacket in the washing machine.
Close zippers and snaps to prevent damage to the fabric when washing your down jacket. Empty all pockets. Remove any spot stains by gently wiping with a damp cloth and a little detergent, then place the down jacket in the washing machine. Remove any decorative elements, such as removable fur trim on the hood or decorative appliqués.
Read the manufacturer's label – you'll find all the instructions there for washing down clothing, such as temperature, spin speed, and appropriate detergents.
Choosing the right washing method for your down jacket
A warm down jacket won't lose its valuable insulating properties if you take care of both the filling and the water-repellent outer layer. Women's down jackets protect against cold for a long time.
Hand washing – how to wash a down jacket?
You can hand-wash your down jacket or wash it in a washing machine; each method has its advantages and disadvantages, which you should consider. Hand-washing works well for delicate fabrics, as well as down filling. It's important to wash the jacket in lukewarm water – you can then gently squeeze the jacket to remove stains and refresh the filling. The disadvantage of hand-washing down is that it requires care and is time-consuming, as you must thoroughly rinse the jacket of detergent.
Washing in an automatic washing machine
You can also wash Washing women's or men's down coats in a washing machine is a much more convenient and faster solution. However, it's important to use the appropriate program – for wool or delicate fabrics. Wash natural down at a low temperature – a maximum of 30°C – and use a low spin speed. Machine washing allows you to thoroughly rinse the jacket of detergents.
How to wash a down jacket in the washing machine?
Washing a down jacket in the washing machine is convenient, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. First, it's best to only do this when the jacket is very dirty. This will prevent excessive wear and tear on the down. men's or women's winter sports jackets 1-2 times per season.
Set your washing machine to a delicates cycle or hand wash, use a low temperature, and limit the spin speed to 400-600 rpm. To prevent damage to your jacket, use a special down detergent that won't damage its structure but won't strip away its natural oils. To prevent the down from compacting, place 2-3 tennis balls in the washing machine to evenly distribute the down.
Remember to rinse the detergent thoroughly, preferably twice, and avoid using fabric softeners, which can destroy the hydrophobic properties of the material.
How to wash a down jacket in the washing machine and what detergents to use?
Both jackets and Women's or men's down vests should be washed using special detergents designed for this type of material. Down detergents remove dirt without damaging the natural oils in the down. Silk detergent or even a gentle baby shampoo will also work well.
Drying a down jacket after washing
Drying your down jacket is just as important as washing it, as improper drying can permanently damage the down.
You can tumble dry your down jacket, but read the label first to make sure this method is approved by the manufacturer.
Select a low temperature program and add 2-3 tennis balls to help break up the fluff and distribute it evenly.
Drying a down jacket naturally
What if you don't have a tumble dryer? Then, lay the wet jacket flat in a well-ventilated area. Don't place the down jacket on a radiator, and avoid exposure to intense sunlight, as this can damage the material.
While drying naturally, gently tap and shake the jacket to break up the down. This will help the fill retain its original shape and insulating properties.
Never dry a down jacket on a hanger, as the damp down can clump and the jacket will lose its shape.
Tips on how to wash a down jacket – step-by-step instructions
Properly washing your down clothing is the best way to ensure your jacket, snowsuit, vest, or ski pants remain in top condition. Other items of clothing, such as jackets, can also be washed in a similar manner. Women's or men's thermal underwear . Follow our tips and learn how to wash a down jacket.
Check the label and prepare the jacket for washing
Before putting your jacket in the washing machine, check the manufacturer's recommendations regarding temperature, washing program and detergent.
Follow our previous tips and empty your pockets.
Choose down washing detergents and set the appropriate program
Use a detergent specifically designed for down. Avoid regular fabric softeners and fabric softeners, which can cause the down in your jacket to lose its insulating properties.
Select a delicates or handwash program, set the temperature to a maximum of 30°C and a low spin speed (400-600 rpm).
After washing, run an extra rinse to remove any remaining powder from your down jacket.
Dry your jacket
Carefully remove the jacket from the washing machine. Do not wring it out, as this can damage the down. Choose the most convenient drying method – dry naturally in a ventilated room or in a tumble dryer.
Now you know how to properly wash your down jacket. Follow our tips and your outerwear will stay in perfect condition for a long time.