How to Wash Jackets & Coats: Ultimate Cleaning Guide

Curious about how to wash your jackets? Wondering if you’re doing it the right way?

In this article, we will be covering some essential tips and techniques for cleaning different types of jackets like down, wool, leather, and more.

Reading Care Labels and Preparing Jackets for Washing

Start by reading the care tag labels; they will provide specific instructions for the washing and drying process.

Adhering to these instructions will help prevent damage, maintain the jacket’s appearance and fit, and prolong its lifespan.

Before tossing your jacket into the washing machine, there are a few things you want to do:

1. Inspect the jacket for stains and pre-treat them with an appropriate cleaner
2. Fasten all zippers and buttons to minimize the potential of snags and tears
3. Empty all pockets and brush off any loose dirt

And remember, always check for any special care instructions on the label. For example, some jackets may be hand wash or dry clean only.

Washing Down Jackets

Down jackets are incredibly warm and comfortable, but they also require special care when washing.

The best way to clean a down jacket is by using a front-loading washing machine on a delicate wash cycle with a mild detergent like ACTIVE Laundry Detergent.

For those who prefer hand-washing, soak the jacket in warm or cold water for 30-60 minutes before gently washing it. That will help prevent the down feathers from becoming damaged and will also let the jacket retain its insulation properties.

Drying a down coat is a delicate process. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Use a clothes dryer on a low heat setting
2. Add a few tennis balls or wool dryer balls; they will help evenly distribute the feathers
3. Check the jacket every 15-20 minutes; pull apart any clumps and ensure even drying

Washing Wool Coats

Wool jackets are a winter staple, providing both warmth and style. However, they need to be handled with care to avoid shrinkage and damage. Here are some tips for washing these types of coats:

1. Check the care label for any specific instructions and warnings
2. Use cold water and a gentle detergent, ideally one that’s specifically formulated for wool
3. Soak the coat and rinse thoroughly to avoid leftover residue

Machine washing wool coats is generally not recommended, as it can cause shrinkage and damage the fibers. Instead, opt for hand washing or professional cleaning.

After washing, air dry the wool jacket by laying it flat. That will help it retain its shape and prevent stretching.

Cleaning Leather Coats

Leather jackets are timeless pieces that require a bit of extra care to keep them looking their best.

As with all jackets, you want to check the coat label before proceeding with any cleaning method. For spot cleaning, we recommend using a mild laundry detergent and a damp cloth.

For a deep clean, it’s best to take your leather coat to a professional cleaner who specializes in leather care.

After cleaning, air dry the jacket and avoid using any heat sources like tumble dryers or direct sunlight, as they can damage the leather.

Maintaining Fleece Jackets

Fleece jackets are known for being lightweight, warm, and breathable. To keep them in top condition, turn the jacket inside out and wash it separately on a delicate cycle with mild detergent. For the best results, use cold and gentle settings; that will prevent the fibers from becoming damaged.

It’s also a good idea to run an extra rinse cycle as that will help remove all detergent residue, which can stiffen the fleece and compromise comfort.

After washing, hang them up or lay them flat to dry. Avoid using a dryer.

Caring for Puffer Coats

Puffer jackets, with their cozy insulation, are a winter favorite. To keep them in top shape, start by pre-treating any visible stains with a mild stain remover. Always read the garment label before washing to check for any specific instructions.

To wash puffer coats, follow these steps:

1. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water to avoid shrinking
2. Use a down-specific cleaner or mild biodegradable detergent
3. Avoid using bleach or a fabric softener as they can damage the coat
4. Tumble dry on low to no heat with clean tennis balls to help redistribute the filling
5. Check the coat every 15-20 minutes to pull apart clumps and ensure even drying

Handling Faux Fur Jackets

Faux fur jackets add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, but they also need special care.

As always, you want to start by checking the care label. Spot clean any visible stains using a mild stain remover as that will help prevent stains from setting.

For washing, you can either hand wash the garment in slightly warm soapy water or machine wash using a special wool detergent with the lowest spin speed.

Never use a tumble dryer for faux fur as the heat and friction can damage the fibers. Instead, lay the jacket flat to dry, away from direct heat sources and brush it lightly once dry to maintain its fluffiness.

Storing Winter Jackets Properly

Proper storage is vital when it comes to maintaining your jackets. Here are some tips:

• Store jackets in a cool, dry, dark location, preferably within a temperature-controlled environment inside the house to avoid moisture build-up, mold, and damage from sunlight
• Use padded hangers for structured coats
• Use cotton garment bags for breathability

Avoid vacuum-sealing feather- and down-filled winter wear as it can damage the feathers. Instead, hang them or place them in bins without excessive squishing.

Make sure there’s adequate space between each item for natural airflow.

Special Considerations for Different Jacket Materials

Different jacket materials require different cleaning methods to preserve their appearance. Using the wrong cleaning method can damage the fabric and reduce the jacket’s effectiveness.

Let’s take a look at how to care for waterproof, suede, and vinyl jackets.

Waterproof Jackets

Waterproof jackets require careful handling to maintain their water repellency.

Start by closing all zippers and checking all pockets for items before washing. Pre-treat any stains, then wash with a mild detergent like the one by ACTIVE, and run a gentle cycle with cold water.

Waterproof jackets should only be washed when they are visibly soiled, smelly, or after every 4-6 wears. After washing, you can restore the jacket’s water repellency by using a spray-on or wash-in waterproofing product. Store the jacket in a dry place, avoiding humidity, heat, and direct sunlight.

Suede Jackets

Suede jackets are elegant but can be tricky to clean. For oil stains, use a small amount of cornstarch to absorb the oil before brushing it off. For stubborn stains, a suede eraser can be very effective.

Grease and oil stains can also be treated with talcum powder. For water stains, lightly mist the entire jacket with water and blot it dry to remove the marks.

Vinyl Coats

Vinyl coats are durable and easy to clean. Here are some tips for keeping them looking clean and shiny:

• Regularly wipe them with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• For deeper cleaning, you can hand wash or machine wash the coats on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent
• Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue

After washing, air dry the coats to avoid any potential damage from heat.

Drying Techniques for Different Jackets

Down and puffer jackets should be tumble-dried on a low heat setting. Never use high heat as it can melt the seams and damage the outer fabric.

For fleece jackets, avoid using a dryer altogether. Instead, hang or lay them flat to dry to maintain their softness. Leather and suede jackets should always be air-dried to avoid any damage from heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Jackets

One major mistake that people often make when washing jackets is using fabric softeners. They can damage the materials, especially waterproof jackets, by stripping the water-repellent coating.

Another common error is overloading the washing machine. This can prevent the jacket from getting cleaned properly.

Not following the care instructions on the jacket’s care tag label can also lead to various issues such as shrinkage, color fading, or material damage.

Using bleach or harsh detergents can also deteriorate the fabric and reduce the jacket’s lifespan.

Knowing How to Wash Winter Coats

Washing your jackets properly will help extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best. From reading care labels to using the right washing and drying techniques, each step is crucial.

Whether it’s a down jacket, wool coat, or fleece jacket, following these guidelines will help you preserve their quality and functionality.

Key Takeaways

• Read care labels and pre-treat stains, fasten zippers, and empty pockets before washing to avoid damage and prolong its life
• Each type of jacket has specific washing instructions: down jackets need cold water and low-heat drying with tennis balls, wool coats should be hand-washed and air-dried, and leather jackets require spot cleaning or professional care
• Store winter outerwear in a cool, dry area with good airflow to prevent damage and mildew growth, and avoid vacuum-sealing down-filled jackets.

Washing Your Winter Jacket – FAQs

How often should I wash my down jacket?

We recommend washing your down jacket when it’s visibly dirty or smelly, or at the end of the season before storing.

Can I use bleach on my puffer coat to remove stains?

No, it’s best to avoid bleach as it can damage the fabric and insulation. Try using a mild stain remover instead.

Is it safe to machine wash my wool coat?

No, it’s best not to machine wash your wool coat; it can cause shrinkage and damage, so opt for hand wash or dry clean instead.

How do I restore the water repellency of my waterproof jacket?

To restore the water repellency of your waterproof jacket, use a spray-on or wash-in waterproofing product after washing.

Can I dry my fleece jacket in the dryer?

No, it’s best to air dry fleece jackets to keep them soft and in good condition.