How to wash down jackets and store them properly

You've got that favorite jacket—the one that makes you feel confident every time you put it on. But over time, even the best jackets can start to show signs of wear. So, how do you keep your prized piece looking fresh?

A down jacket from Columbia is not only a stylish and warm garment but also an investment. To ensure that your down jacket maintains its insulation and does not clump after washing, it's important to provide it with proper care and maintenance.

This blog will guide you through the best methods for washing and maintaining your down jacket so that it remains in top shape for years to come.

How to Wash a Down Jacket in the Washing Machine

1.If Possible, Use a Front-loading Washing Machine

Why front-loading? A front-loading washing machine tends to be gentler on clothes than a top-loading washing machine because it doesn't have a centre agitator, which could potentially rip the jacket during a wash cycle.

If you only have access to a top-loading washing machine, it's best to place the jacket in a mesh bag before washing. This helps keep sleeves from getting caught on that centre agitator. Before loading the jacket, remove any harsh soap residue from the washer and clean the detergent dispenser, if necessary.

2. Choose a mild detergent

Always use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Consider purchasing a cleaner specifically made for down materials. Avoid fabric softeners as they can leave residues on the down and reduce its insulation ability.

3. Prepare the down Jacket

Zip up zippers and close any pockets. Once zipped up, turn it inside out. This will help protect the outer layer from ripping in the drum of the washing machine.

4. Set the machine to right temperature

Set the water temperature to cold and the spin cycle to gentle or normal. If you are using a top-loading washing machine, use the gentle setting. If you are only washing one down jacket, set the load size to small.

How to Wash a Down Jacket by Hand

  1. Fill up a large sink with lukewarm water.
  2. As the water is filling, pour in a capful of mild laundry detergent or down-specific cleaning product.
  3. Soak the jacket in it for a few minutes.
  4. Then, gently scrub the jacket with your hands.
  5. Drain the tub or sink and press out as much water as possible from the jacket. Instead of aggressively ringing out the jacket, you can press the material against the side of the tub or sink.
  6. The jacket will still be quite wet. To remove the extra water lay a bath towel on the floor and place the jacket flat on top of it.
  7. Then, roll up the jacket inside the towel. Once you've rolled it all up, you can gently press it to remove excess water.

Dry your down jacket gently

After washing, it is crucial to dry your down jacket properly. Use a dryer with low heat and dryer balls (alternatively, tennis balls) to restore the loft of the down and prevent clumping. Keep an eye on the jacket during drying and stop when it is dry to avoid overheating.

Store Your Down Jacket Correctly

Down jackets should be cleaned before storing them away for the summer. Avoid compressing your down jacket too tightly in a small space this will cause feathers to clump into lumps.

Let your down jackets be able to air out and breathe, not wrapped in plastic. Instead, cover the top of the jacket with light paper, which will protect it from any light damage or dust.

Use a good quality hanger with smooth edges and hang it. Follow these steps and your jackets will be in great condition for many years.

EXTRA TIPS

  1. Do not wear a down jacket during rain – they are not waterproof. If they are exposed to water for a long time, they will lose their fluffiness. They are made of feathers, after all!
  2. Don’t wash it on a regular basis. The more often you wash, the faster it will lose its fluffiness and splash proof layer. It is more than sufficient to wash the jacket once or twice a year—particularly at the end of the winter for a refresh before the next season.
  3. Don’t forget to air it out often. It is good practice to take out your down jacket when not in use and keep it in direct sunlight once or twice a month. This ensures that it does not get moistened and makes the feathers drier and fluffier.
  4. Don’t give your down jacket for dry cleaning.
  5. Don’t ever iron your down jacket – it will melt!