Wash a Down Jacket in the Machine – Step by Step

Yes, you can wash a down jacket at home

A down jacket tolerates machine washing if the care label allows it. Do not send it to dry cleaning unless it's labelled for it – ordinary cleaning solvent can strip the down's natural, protective oils. Dirty down insulates worse, so a gentle wash is actually good for the jacket.

Wash – step by step

Use the right product and a gentle programme.

1. Close zips and hook-and-loop fastenings, and empty the pockets.
2. Use a down or technical wash – not ordinary detergent, and never fabric softener.
3. Wash on a gentle programme with a low temperature and low spin.
4. Run an extra rinse, so all soap residue is out.

Drying is the most important step

This is where down jackets are saved or ruined.

1. Put the jacket in the tumble dryer on low heat with 2–3 clean tennis or dryer balls.
2. The balls beat the down clumps apart as the jacket dries.
3. Take the jacket out at intervals and break up any clumps by hand.
4. Continue until the down is FULLY dry and lofty – half-dry down clumps and can go musty.

Afterwards: check the proofing

Washing wears the water-repellent surface. Do the drop test on the shoulders once the jacket is dry, and re-proof if the water soaks in. See the separate guide on re-proofing a down jacket.

Rather not risk it? Let us take it

The wrong drying is the most common way to ruin a down jacket. If you want to be safe, we wash, dry and re-proof the down jacket according to the garment and its care label – and seal any hole first. You see the price before you order.

Frequently asked questions