Down jackets are one of the most popular outer garments. However, refreshing and washing this type of garment can be troublesome. The down found in jackets is very delicate, so standard washing could often involve damaging the jacket. So what to do if we want to refresh it in a safe way? We can wash it, but we need to follow a few tips.
Before refreshing a down jacket, first of all we should check the manufacturer’s tags. This is where we will be able to find out how best to clean the garment in question. In many cases, jackets can be washed in a washing machine at low temperature and on low speed.
How to wash a down jacket in the washing machine?
If the manufacturer stipulates that the jacket can be washed in a washing machine, then we should follow the recommendations in terms of maximum temperature and spin. We should also check whether it can be dried in the dryer (rather, this type of clothing is dried in the classic way).
After reviewing the label, we need to prepare the jacket. First of all, we should check all pockets – small items left behind could damage the jacket. After emptying the pockets, we need to fasten all buttons and zippers. Then turn the jacket inside out (to hide any protrusions that could catch on the washing machine during spinning). It is best to wash it without other items.
It is worth checking the functions of the washing machine. If the jacket is washable, the usual recommended temperature is between 30 and 40 degrees C. In the case of spinning, the maximum should be 400 revolutions per minute. Remember to clean the washing machine and the powder tank thoroughly beforehand – down jackets must be washed in detergents dedicated to them. Standard powders or liquids could damage them. Before placing the jacket (especially in the case of natural down) in the washing machine, we can also add tennis balls, they allow the filling to maintain the right elasticity and prevent it from sticking together during washing.
How to wash a down jacket by hand?
Garments of this type can also be washed by hand. To begin with, we follow the same procedure as in the case of washing in a washing machine – remove any items from the pockets, fasten the zippers and turn it inside out. Then we soak the down jacket for an hour or so.
The next step is to knead the down jacket in water at a temperature of about 30 – 40 degrees C. We should do it gently. We should remember not to wring the garment, because this activity would damage the filling. Finally, hold the jacket upright and squeeze the water out of it, during this
How to dry a down jacket after washing?
Almost all down jackets cannot be placed in an electric dryer. We should also not put them on the radiator, it is better to spread them on the floor or a classic dryer. It is also worth putting a towel underneath. Let’s dry them slowly, turning them over to the other side from time to time. In this way, the jacket should retain its springiness and insulating properties.
Importantly, remember not to dry the garment at temperatures above 60 degrees C. Usually it takes more than one day for a down jacket to fully dry. While it is drying, it is a good idea to move it around so that the down inside breaks down and remains as fluffy as it was before washing. A well-cleaned natural down garment should serve us for several more seasons.
