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Washing Instructions for Patagonia Clothing
October 5, 2024
-
By
Sophia Grant
Patagonia was founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973. An accomplished rock climber, he had sold climbing gear ever since the late 50s.
Wanting to improve his products, he eventually partnered up with Tom Frost in 1965. From there, they eventually opened Patagonia’s first store, Great Pacific Iron Works, in Ventura, California.
Since then, the brand has grown significantly. As of 2025, there are dozens of stores worldwide—53 to be exact.
About Patagonia’s Products
Patagonia has a massive catalog that includes jackets, vests, sweatshirts, jeans, snow pants, yoga wear, dresses, wetsuits, base layers—even underwear.
They also have product lines that are specifically designed for climbing, mountain biking, fly fishing, surfing, trail running, skiing, and hiking.
Materials & Fabrics Used by Patagonia
Before going into the washing instructions, it’s important to know what kind of fabrics they use for their clothes. Here are some of them:
Recycled Polyester
Patagonia is known for using recycled polyester – something that they’ve been doing since the early 90s.
Aside from used soda bottles, they also make fibers out of worn-out garments and unusable manufacturing waste.
Recycled Nylon
The brand has been using recycled nylon for its clothes for the past five years.
They take post-industrial waste fiber, waste from weaving mills, and yarns from factories and re-create that into usable fibers. Recently, they’ve also started experimenting with discarded fishing nets.
2.5-layer H2No® Performance Standard Shell
This material is 100% waterproof and windproof. Not only is it breathable but it’s packable as well. It’s also coated with a DWR finish, which helps repel rain and snow.
4-Layer Wader Fabric
This innovative material features a 4-layer construction, which increases breathability, and abrasion resistance, and moves moisture away from the skin.
Complete with H2No waterproof coating, you won’t have to worry about it getting wet in the rain or snow. There’s also a layer of soft polyester tricot lining, which provides extreme comfort.
Gore-Tex Paclite Shell
This fabric is not only waterproof, but it’s also windproof and extremely breathable.
Windstopper Fabric
Not only is this fabric soft and lightweight, but it’s also water resistant. On top of all that, it dries very quickly.
How to Wash Patagonia Down Jackets
Patagonia offers a wide range of jackets, most of which are filled with goose down. Here’s how to wash them:
Can You Put Patagonia Down Jackets In the Washer?
Patagonia down jackets are machine washable as long as you take the proper steps.
Step 1: Prep the Jacket
Start by emptying the pockets, then close the zippers. Velcro attachments should also be closed if there are any.
Step 2: Choose a Delicate Setting
Set your washing machine to a delicate cycle and make sure to use cold water; hot water can cause damage to the fibers.
Step 3: Use a Laundry Bag
Place the down jacket in a large mesh laundry bag and load it into the washer. The bag will protect it from rubbing against your other clothes while the machine is running.
Step 4: Add Detergent
Add one scoop of ACTIVE detergent to the basin and start the wash cycle. Avoid using fabric softener as it will degrade the water-repellent finish.
Step 5: Transfer to the Dryer
Take your jacket out once the cycle is finished. Don’t worry if it looks a bit deflated—that’s normal with down jackets.
Transfer it to the clothes dryer and let it run on a low heat setting. Be sure to add a few dryer balls or tennis balls – they will help the jacket restore its fluffiness.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Large laundry bag
- Dryer balls
Air drying is only recommended for thinner jackets. It can lead to moisture retention inside, which can result in odors developing.
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Safely deep clean your Patagonia gear with our powder laundry detergent.
Washing Patagonia Down Jackets By Hand
You can also wash Patagonia down jackets by hand in a large tub.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Dryer balls
Step 1:
Start by closing all zippers. Make sure to check the pockets as well.
Step 2:
Add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent and mix until the powdered laundry detergent is fully dissolved.
Step 3:
Carefully submerge the jacket so that it’s fully immersed in the soapy mixture. For the best results, let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4:
Drain the tub and rinse the jacket with cool water. Continue until the water runs clear and is free of soap suds.
Depending on how much detergent you’ve used, it can take a couple of minutes.
Step 5:
Gently squeeze the excess water out of the jacket then transfer it to the dryer.
Set it on the lowest heat setting and tumble dry. Remember to add a few dryer balls – they will help break up any clumps.
Avoid wringing or twisting motions as that’ll make the down clump together. There’s also a chance that you’ll rip and tear the fabric.
Washing Instructions for Patagonia Swimsuits
Patagonia offers a variety of swimsuits for women. Here’s how you can keep them clean.
Handwashing Your Patagonia Swimsuit
The best way to clean your Patagonia swimsuit is by hand. Here’s how to do it.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
Step 1:
Start by rinsing the swimsuit. One easy way to do this is to take a shower with it on.
Alternatively, you can take it off and rinse it with cool water in the sink. Consider soaking it for 15-20 minute; that’ll help to remove sweat, chlorine, and sunscreen.
Step 2:
Refill the sink with water and add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent – just a little will do.
Once the detergent has dissolved, place your swimsuit in. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3:
Swish for a few minutes with your hands and rinse well under the faucet. Continue until all the soap is gone.
Step 4:
Gently squeeze out the excess water then let it air dry in a well-ventilated spot, away from direct sunlight.
Best Way to Clean Patagonia Sports Bras and Underwear
How to Machine Wash Patagonia Intimates
Delicate items can be machine washed as long as you protect them with laundry bags.
Supplies:
- Lingerie bag
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Place your delicates in a lingerie bag and load them into the washing machine.
Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent to the drum. Skip the fabric softener and bleach.
Step 3:
Set your washing machine to a delicate cycle and run a cold water wash.
Step 4:
Take the items out of the washer once the cycle is finished and let them air dry on a drying rack.
Avoid hanging the bras by the straps as that can cause the elastic to stretch.
Don’t use the dryer – the heat will stretch out and damage the delicate fibers.
Washing Patagonia Bras and Underwear By Hand
Their bras and underwear can also be washed by hand. If anything, it’s the gentlest option.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Fill a sink with water and add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a soapy solution.
Step 2:
Place the items in the solution once the detergent is dissolved.
Make sure they’re fully submerged in the solution and soak for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3:
Rinse the items with cool water. Continue until there are no more soap suds, then allow them to air dry on a drying rack.
If necessary, you can remove some of the excess moisture with a clean towel.
Washing Patagonia Activewear – FAQs
Should you wash their down jackets with cold or warm water?
It’s best to wash their jackets with cold water. You want to avoid using heat as it can damage the fabric over time. Not only that but it can compromise the fabric’s durable water-repellent finish.
What’s the best way to dry a Patagonia down jacket?
Gently squeeze excess water out of the jacket and place it in the dryer. Tumble dry on low heat with a few dryer balls – they will help restore the jacket’s fluffiness.
Can you wash Patagonia jackets with other items?
It’s best to wash them separately from your other clothes, especially if you’re washing down jackets.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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