How to Properly Clean Down-Filled Clothing and Other Items
No matter if the down-filled item you have is a piece of outerwear or a comforter, the first step to take is to look for a care tag. For the best results, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the item. If you can’t locate a care tag, but you know who the manufacturer is, you can always contact the company and inquire about proper cleaning procedures.
If the care tag reads, “Dry Clean Only”, heed the advice and don’t try to wash the down-filled clothing or other items in a clothes washer. In fact, take the item to a professional dry cleaner. To avoid ruining the item, don’t try to dry clean it yourself.
On the other hand, the care tag may read, “Do Not Dryclean”. This means that dry cleaning the clothing or other items can damage the down and lessen its warmth-providing ability.
No matter which way you properly clean your down-filled clothing, make sure to empty out all the pockets. Inspect the garment for rips, tears, holes and open seams. Repair the damage or have it professionally fixed before you attempt to clean it or have it cleaned.
Close up all of the zippers, snaps, pockets, buttons and all other fasteners that may be found on the down-filled items and remove any belts or detachable ties.
Some down-filled outer garments and other items can be cleaned in a washing machine. Before you place any item in the washer, though, inspect the item for stains and heavily soiled spots. Use a spot cleaner that’s recommended for down-filled garments to clean these spots first. In order to obtain the best results, read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the product.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly clean your items in a washing machine. Generally, though, you’ll need to use the “gentle” cycle. Laundry detergents aren’t normally good to clean your down-filled items with because they can leave a residue. Or, they can remove the natural oil in the down. A purified soap that contains no bleaches, whiteners, fragrances, softeners or other additives would be a good choice. But the best choice would be to purchase a cleanser that’s specifically made for down-filled clothing and other items.
Once it’s gone through the wash cycle, rinse the items a second time if you used a gentle detergent. Then, carefully remove the down-filled clothing or other items as soon as the washer quits. Don’t be surprised to find the soggy down filling is heavy and is in clumps.
Place the items in your clothes dryer on a low heat setting. Down-filled items take a long time to completely dry. Follow the care tag instructions, but take the garment or items out of the dryer every fifteen minutes and shake them gently to help distribute the down. You can also add a couple heavy bath towels to the dryer to help the drying process.
When the down filling is dry, it should be back in place inside the clothing or other items. Feel the clothing or items in several places to make sure they are dry.
Then, place the item on a hanger and store it loosely in a cool, dry area so it can get air.
