Are you looking for the easiest and most effective way to wash a Patagonia down jacket? I’ve learned a few tips and helpful suggestions that can make the cleaning process much easier for you!
To wash your Patagonia down jacket, you have to prepare the jacket, put it in the washing machine, and run it through the dryer. There are some important things that should be avoided while cleaning since they could damage your jacket.
Hopefully, this step-by-step guide helps you to clean your jacket and enjoy the new looks!
Materials Needed
- Patagonia down jacket
- Washing machine and dryer
- Stain remover (optional)
- Tennis balls (optional)
What Should Be Avoided
- Fabric softeners
- Bleach
- An iron
Step 1: Prepare Your Down Jacket
First, you need to take any items out of your pockets. Especially if you’re washing your kid’s jacket, there might be things like crayons or slime that you definitely don’t want to wash.
Next zip all the zippers up, including the main one. An unzipped zipper can catch on the fabric and create a tear.
If there is a spot that’s extra stained, pretreat it with some down specific cleaner.
You can also turn your jacket inside out to be extra sure that nothing catches during washing.
Check the label on your jacket because each down jacket has specific instructions.
Step 2: Use a Front-Loading Washing Machine
Find a washing machine that is front-loading. This is because the agitator from top-loading washers can damage down feathers.
If you don’t have access to a front-loader then go to a laundromat.
Step 3: Wash on a Gentle Cycle
Set the dial to cold water on a permanent press or gentle cycle. Don’t use warm or hot water when you’re washing your jacket as it can be too harsh.
Add a bit of down specific cleaner. It is important to use something that is specifically made for down. Normal detergents have the ability to strip natural oils from down feathers.
Natural oils are what keep down feathers fluffy. When natural oils are stripped, the feathers break down and become brittle.
If your down jacket is really dirty, pause your washing machine midway through and let it soak for about an hour.
Step 4: Rinse the Jacket
After you run your jacket through the wash, run it for another cycle just as a rinse. This will help to get rid of any tough spots that are remaining after the first wash.
Step 5: Dry on Low Heat
Put your jacket in the dryer on a low heat setting. You want your down jacket to be fully dry so you might have to run it for a few cycles.
You can use a few tennis balls to help fluff the jacket back up, but don’t use anything heavier than a tennis ball.
If you’re using a laundromat, check on your jacket frequently to make sure it doesn’t get too hot.
Leave your jacket in the dryer until it completely cools down.
How Often Should a Patagonia Down Jacket be Washed?
You should try to wash your jacket as little as possible since washing it frequently will add extra wear and tear that will shorten its lifespan.
A good rule of thumb is to wash your jacket once during the season and once before you put it away in storage.
Related Questions
Can you air dry your down jacket?
You can theoretically air dry your jacket but the best way to dry it is with a dryer. But if you can’t find a dryer, you still have options.
Find a sunny, dry, warm spot. Put down a towel and then put your jacket on top of the towel.
Occasionally pull apart the clumps of down as it dries to speed up the drying process and loosen up the clumps. Periodically flip the jacket too.
Air drying a down jacket can take a few days or even a few weeks depending on where you live.
Can you hand wash your down jacket?
Of course you can hand wash your down jacket!
Still use cold water, a down specific cleaner, and dry it the recommended way. Don’t ever wring it out after you wash it.
Can you dry clean your down jacket?
You should only dry clean your down jacket if it’s your last resort.
Some dry cleaners will be able to do a good job, but your jacket may not come back as fluffy as possible.
A lot of dry cleaning chemicals are incredibly harsh too.
If you have to bring your jacket to the dry cleaners, ask around and find one that is reputable and knows how to handle down jackets.
Final Thoughts
It is important to wash your down jacket correctly. You want to have a clean jacket when going shopping, skiing, or just for a walk in the snow.
Down jackets are very finicky when being washed, but it is worth it in order to maintain their durability.
Down jackets are your best friend in the winter. So follow our guide and keep your down jacket clean, the proper way!
