How to Clean a Puffer Jacket/Coat

How to clean a puffer jacket or coat

Your puffer jacket is a wardrobe staple, which is why you want to keep it looking its puffiest, fluffiest best. But designer puffer coats are packed with technical features and down insulation that make them slightly tricky to care for. Never fear – in this guide, we’ll offer the best tips so you can protect your investment from season to season. Here’s how to clean a puffer jacket, coat, or vest, step by step.

How do you prepare your puffer jacket for cleaning

As with cleaning any garment, the first step should always be to look at the care label for detailed instructions. This will let you know about maximum temperature settings or other recommendations before you begin.

Empty all pockets, fasten any enclosures and zip your jacket shut. This prevents snagging once it’s inside your washing machine. Be sure to remove any fur or faux-fur trims, too. These should be washed separately. If you’re spot-cleaning stains, now’s the time to do it!

How to wash your puffer jacket

Once your jacket is prepped and ready to go, here’s how to clean a puffer jacket at home using your washing machine.

1. Place jacket in the washing machine

Front-loading washing machines are best for cleaning puffy jackets, because these don’t have a central agitator that can lead to wear and tear. If you do have a top-loaded machine with a central agitator, add a towel or blanket to the load to act as a buffer.

2. Choose your detergent

The care label will specify if you need to use a specialty detergent. A mild, unscented formula works for most puffy jackets, particularly those with synthetic down. If your down jacket contains real feathers, you might need a special downwash instead. Whatever the type, use your detergent sparingly – in most cases, a half tablespoon will do.

3. Choose your cycle and temperature

A gentle wash setting is best to keep your puffy coat looking fluffy. Heavier cycles with too much spinning can damage the filling and exterior, so it’s best to go for the delicate or wool cycle instead. Choose extra rinse if it’s available to get rid of every trace of detergent. An extra spin cycle can’t hurt either, removing excess moisture.

How should you dry your puffer jacket

Heat can mess with the technical qualities of puffer jackets, particularly those with water-repellent finishes. For this reason, it’s best to air dry your jacket. Use a drying rack, turning it over every few hours while smoothing clumps in the filling to fluff it back up.

If the label says you can machine dry the jacket, choose the low or no-heat delicate setting.

Why should you care for your puffer jacket

Regular care and cleaning not only keep your jacket looking fresh, but it also makes sure it performs for the long haul. It all comes down to the insulation. Whether real or synthetic, down insulation traps air to keep you warm. Without washing, the filling can clump up and be less effective. Dirt and sweat can react with water-repellent finishes, too.

Puffer jacket care FAQs

1. How do you clean a puffer jacket by hand?

Soak your jacket in cool or lukewarm water in a clean sink, tub, or basin. Use a down-friendly detergent and swish your jacket around gently before rinsing well with cold water. For spot cleaning by hand, rub stains gently with a washcloth and water.

2. Will washing your puffer jacket cause it to shrink?

If you’re not careful, yes! Heat and hot water can shrink your jacket, which is why it’s important to use a cold setting.

3. How to clean a puffer vest?

Whether you have a puffer jacket, vest, or coat, the procedure will be the same.

4. Can you dry clean a puffer jacket?

Unlike other designer coats and parkas, puffer jackets don’t respond well to dry cleaning. The chemicals used during the dry-cleaning process can impact the down filling, making it less fluffy and full. However, if the label says dry cleaning is recommended, go for it.

5. How often should you wash your puffer jacket?

It’s a good idea to wash your puffer jacket at the end of the winter season. Over-washing can compromise the technical qualities and materials with wear and tear. With regular cleaning and care, your women’s puffer jacket will not only look its stylish best, but it will also keep you warm and dry for longer.