Today I am sharing step by step instructions on washing down jackets as well as answering questions about how often your need to wash your down jacket to keep it in working order.
One thing I always have with me on a hike, backpacking trip, and camping trip, regardless of the weather is a down jacket. Down jackets offer incredible lightweight insulation. They pack down well, keep you warm, and are my first choice in most situations where I need an extra layer. Since down is a high quality material, it comes with a higher price tag and higher amount of necessary care.
In order to keep your gear lasting for years, you need to wash and care for your down jacket so it will continue to keep you warm for years to come.
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How Often Should You Be Washing Your Down Jacket?
Washing a down jacket too frequently can shorten its lifespan, but not washing it enough can lead to accumulation of dirt and oils that can degrade the down’s loft and insulating properties.
Here’s a general guideline on how often you should be washing down jackets:
- Regular Use: If you wear your down jacket regularly around town, washing it once or twice a season is probably sufficient. This is about to every 3-6 months, depending on usage and exposure to dirt.
- After Strenuous Outdoor Activities: If you’re wearing your down jacket on outdoor activities like hiking or camping, where the jacket is exposed to more dirt, sweat, and odor, you may need to wash it more frequently. Once a month is probably a good idea, for me it’s more like every 2 months.
- When Visibly Dirty or Smelly: Regardless of how long it’s been since you last washed it, if your down jacket is visibly dirty, stained, or has an unpleasant odor, it’s time to wash it.
- Spot Cleaning: For small stains or areas, spot cleaning is a good approach. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to gently clean the affected area. This can reduce the need for full washes.
- Storage Considerations: Before storing your jacket for a long period (like over the summer), it’s a good idea to wash it. This ensures that oils, dirt, and sweat don’t sit on the jacket for months, potentially damaging the down. Then make sure you store it away where it is not compressed so you don’t damage the down.
Check out my post on What to Wear Winter Hiking.
As we’re transitioning to the hotter months, you may need your down jacket less and less. Here’s my recommendations on How to Dress for a Hot Summer Hike.
Washing Down Jackets
- Read the Care Label: Before washing, always read the care label on your down jacket for any specific instructions.
- Prepare the Jacket for Washing: Zip up all zippers and close any Velcro fasteners on your down jacket. This helps prevent snagging or damage during the wash.
- Select the Right Washing Machine: Use a front-loading washing machine if possible. Top-loaders with agitators can damage the jacket.
- I have always used a top loader and never had any issues . If your top-loading machine has a gentle cycle setting to keep it from getting too beat up. You could also wash it in your bath tub.
- Use Nikwax Down Wash: Do not use regular detergents as they can strip the down of its natural oils. Measure the appropriate amount of Nikwax Down Wash according to the product instructions and your washing machine type.
- Wash the Jacket: Place your down jacket in the washing machine and set it to a gentle, warm water cycle. Add the Nikwax Down Wash
- . Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse the jacket thoroughly to remove all soap residues. It might be necessary to run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the detergent is washed out.
- Drying the Jacket: Down jackets should be tumble dried on a low heat setting. Add clean tennis ball or dryer balls to the dryer to help break up clumps of down and redistribute it evenly.
- Check for Dampness: Periodically check the jacket for dampness. The drying process may take several hours. Ensure the jacket is completely dry to prevent mildew.
- Fluff the Jacket: Once dry, remove the jacket from the dryer and gently fluff it up to restore its loft.
Materials Needed for Washing Down Jacket:
Looking for a down Jacket?
Here are some of my favorite pieces of gear that are down insulated, for me and for my kids:
REI Down Jacket: I wear this one on a regular basis, and I love it. It goes on sale often as well, so keep your eye out for it.
Arc’teryx Cerium Down Hoodie: I have had this jacket for a few years and it is another one of my most worn.
Morrison Outdoors Kids’ Sleeping bag: My kids have worn these sleeping bags for years, and they stay nice and cozy at night! Use the code HaileyOutside for an additional 10% off.
Kid’s Down Jacket: Perfect for bigger kids or days when they don’t need a full down bunting.
Kids’ Down bunting: Great for cold climates and winter trips.You can layer as much or as little underneath depending on the temperature.
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