Hole in a Down Jacket – How to Repair It Without Losing Down

Stop the feather loss straight away

Cover the hole as soon as you notice it – a piece of tape or a repair patch keeps the down in until you can make a proper fix. Do not wash the jacket before the hole is sealed, as washing then pushes out even more down.

Small holes: a self-adhesive ripstop patch

For small holes and tears, a self-adhesive ripstop patch is a clean and durable solution on the outer fabric.

1. Clean the area around the hole so the patch sticks well.
2. Cut the patch with rounded corners, a little larger than the hole, so it does not lift at the edges.
3. Push the down in and keep the fabric flat while you apply the patch.
4. Press the patch down firmly for a few seconds, ideally over and under if the hole goes right through.

Why a sewn patch can leak

Sewing up a hole in a down baffle creates new needle holes, and through them even more down can escape. On the baffles themselves, a patch or a professional seal is therefore usually better than sewing.

Large holes, seams and baffle damage

Larger tears, damaged baffles or holes on a seam are worth a professional repair, so the jacket keeps both its warmth and its look. We repair down jackets, and can re-proof the jacket in the same round if it also needs fresh water repellency. You see the price before you order.

Frequently asked questions