Washing Jackets: Easy Tips to Keep Your Outerwear Fresh

Got a favorite jacket that’s looking a bit grimy? You don’t need a professional cleaner for most outerwear. With a few simple steps you can wash most jackets at home and keep them looking good for years.

Know Your Jacket Material

Before you reach for the detergent, check what the jacket is made of. Denim, cotton, polyester, nylon, and wool each need a different approach. The care label is your best friend – it tells you if the piece is machine‑washable, hand‑wash only, or dry‑clean only. If the label says ‘hand wash cold’ or ‘machine wash gentle’, you’re good to go. If it says ‘dry clean only’, consider a gentle spot‑clean or professional cleaning to avoid damage.

Prep the Jacket

First, zip up zippers, snap buttons, and turn the jacket inside out. This protects the outer surface and helps the water reach the inner lining. Brush off loose dirt with a soft cloth or a lint roller – it saves the washer from extra wear.

Next, treat any stains. A small dab of liquid laundry detergent or a mild stain remover works for most spots. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently rub with a soft brush. Don’t scrub hard; you don’t want to thin the fabric.

Choose the Right Wash Settings

Use cold or lukewarm water – hot water can shrink wool or damage waterproof coatings. Pick a gentle or delicate cycle with a low spin speed. For heavy jackets like parkas, a front‑loading washer is kinder than a top loader because it’s gentler on the seams.

If you’re unsure, a mesh laundry bag adds extra protection. It keeps the jacket from catching on the drum and reduces friction.

Detergent Matters

Stick to a mild, liquid detergent. Powder can leave residue, especially on dark colors. If your jacket is waterproof, add a small amount of wash‑in technical cleaner – regular detergent can strip the DWR (durable water repellent) coating.

Drying Without Damage

Air‑drying is safest. Hang the jacket on a sturdy coat hanger or lay it flat on a clean towel. Keep it away from direct sunlight to avoid fading. If you must tumble dry, use the lowest heat setting and add a couple of clean tennis balls to help fluff the filling.

For down jackets, a low‑heat tumble with the tennis balls restores loft. Check the jacket every 15‑20 minutes to avoid overheating.

Finishing Touches and Storage

Once dry, give the jacket a quick shake to restore its shape. If the water‑repellent finish looks worn, a spray‑on DWR treatment will bring back the bead‑off effect.

Store jackets on wide hangers or in breathable garment bags. Avoid plastic covers that trap moisture – they can cause mildew.

With these steps you’ll keep jackets clean, cozy, and ready for the next adventure. No fancy equipment, just a bit of care and the right settings, and your outerwear will stay fresh for seasons to come.