Washing Your Down

Down clothing absorbs moisture, dirt and oils from our body and the environment through regular use. It is important to wash regularly to maintain the effectiveness of the insulation. Whether you choose to machine or hand wash here’s how to get the best results each season.

How do I wash my Down Clothing?

PREPARE YOUR GEAR

Brush any surface dirt from the jacket and pre-treat any stubborn marks with some undiluted down wash (or a pure soap bar) rub a small amount of the cleaner on to the stain and gently agitating against itself.

MACHINE WASH

Pop into the machine, choose a delicate or wool cycle, with a slow spin speed, temp of 30 degrees or below, add you detergent and hit go!

HAND WASH

In your laundry sink (or large bucket) add lukewarm water and your detergent enough to cover the jacket. Press your jacket down into the water to completely saturate and gently agitate for a few minutes. Leave to soak for up to 60 min. Rinse with clean water, lightly squeezing out excess water. (Do not wring out)

DRYING

Lift your jacket out of the machine or tub (it could be heavy) lay flat on a drying rack making sure that the whole garment, including sleeves is supported. Don’t have a drying rack, no worries lay on a towel in a well ventilated area. Periodically massage the down to spread it through the baffles of your jacket evenly. When your jacket is mostly dry pop it into a dryer on a low, cool setting with a couple of dryer balls (or you can use tennis balls/ rolled up socks).

Congratulations, your jacket is clean and ready for another adventure!

THE DO'S

Use a down specific wash or a gentle enzyme based product
Wash alone or with down items only
Use cold or warm water up to 30°C
Use dryer balls, tennis balls or rolled up socks for a more even fill

THE DON'TS

Panic if it looks like a wet mess, it will come good!
Use fabric softener or wool-specific wash
Dry-clean – the chemicals will break down the natural structures in the feathers
Use a top loader, they tend to be rough - gentle is best
Use your jacket until completely dry