Washing a down jacket at home and not ruining it: how to do it in a machine and by hand

The first autumn cold snap took us by surprise, so many people have already started switching to thin down jackets. However, after a summer break in the closet, it would be nice to freshen them up. Dry cleaning is a good way out, but it takes time and additional costs. While you can wash a down jacket at home.

But this can ruin the item, argue those who have already tried to put it in the washing machine and had a negative experience with such washing. The fluff would get stuck inside and the garment would lose its appearance and, even worse, stop warming. Kobieta assures us that there are life hacks that will help preserve the filling of the down jacket and, accordingly, its warming properties.

The most important thing is to follow the recommendations on the item's label. The right detergent, washing and drying mode can work wonders.

Before you send your down jacket into the washing machine drum, don't forget to

• pre-wash the most soiled areas with a damp sponge, if necessary, with a mild detergent solution;
• soak the item to reduce its volume;
• fasten all zippers, buttons or zippers;
• turn the item inside out;
• fill the drum of the machine as much as possible.

Choose the most delicate cycle and the lowest water temperature for washing - usually 30 degrees. It's also better to use a delicate detergent, ideally a liquid one. But stain removers or bleach will have to be avoided.

And the most important thing is to put a dozen ping-pong balls or 3-5 tennis balls in the washing machine with your down jacket. By the way, there are even special balls for washing - they won't shed on your clothes. Their task is to prevent the down inside the down jacket from getting lost and falling off. If, after washing in the machine, your item has lost a little volume, beat it out with a carpet beater and place it in a warm place to dry. Some items can take a long time to dry, even several days. Do not speed up this process on purpose - it can damage the down jacket.

You can also clean your down jacket by hand using the "sponge method". Take a clean, slightly damp sponge, lay the down jacket on a flat surface on top of a towel. Prepare soapy water. Pour the foam onto the sponge to prevent excessive moisture from the fabric and filler, and rub the item with it. When you are done with the down jacket, put it in a well-ventilated place, shake it off and move it from time to time. This way, the down inside will remain evenly distributed.