DOWN WASH

STEP 1 - GET YOUR JACKET READY!

  • Get your dirty down jacket ready to go! Check all the pockets for ant leftover treats you might have stuffed in there on your last trip and brush off any dirt.
  • It’s also a good idea to zip up any zippers and fasten any buttons. If you have any especially bad stains on your jacket, you can spot treat your jacket with your detergent before putting it in the wash.

STEP 2 - THE WASHING

  • Go to your washing machine, preferably a front-loading machine. We have used a toploading machine before with no issue but the agitator of a top-loader can potential ruin the down feathers. If you only have a top-loading machine, consider taking a trip to your local laundromat if you’re not willing to take the risk.
  • Put your jacket into the washing machine on gentle to normal wash setting with cold water. Use gentle detergent. Do not use bleach or fabric softener (or attempt to iron your down).
  • It is also recommended to wash your down with a second cycle of just water to make sure all the soap is removed. If your washer has the option of “second rinse,” then choose that.

STEP 3 - THE DRYING

When you pull your jacket out of the dryer you might notice that it’s wet and clumpy… no fear, this is normal! Once your jacket is done washing, put it into the dryer with about 4-6 tennis balls. Yes, it will be loud, but the tennis balls will help restore the fluff in your jacket. Dry on low to no heat. This could take a few cycles, but you don’t want to use a higher heat setting or you could risk damaging or melting the seams of the outer shell fabric on your down jacket. The drying process can take a couple hours, so just be patient. Note: if you have any “patches” on your jacket just be aware that this process may require you to add a new patch. To reduce the need to re-patch your jacket, use a lower heat as suggested in the dryer.

STEP 4 - ENJOY!

Enjoy your clean and newly restored beloved down jacket! Pro Tip: Always store your down jacket uncompressed with room to stretch out. For instance, if you have a down jacket you aren’t using, keep it on a hanger so that it can breathe and maintain its shape better. Try not to keep your jacket in its stuff sack until you go out on a trip and need it compacted down. Keeping your jacket stuffed down too long can damage the feathers and their ability to spring back to life.