How to clean your winter puffer jackets without spending on dry cleaning

Cleaning winter jackets and accessories is not difficult. Read the care labels, and if machine wash is allowed, put the items in a mesh bag and clean them on a gentle cycle in cold water (Image: Pexels)

• Winter jackets, scarves, and gloves can be cleaned at home using proper methods
• Spot clean small stains with mild detergent; machine wash if care label allows
• Dry jackets on low with dryer balls or air dry; check care label.

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Most people often overlook cleaning winter down jackets, scarves, and gloves. They are most often sent to the dry cleaners at the end of the season, which can be an expensive affair. Many delay it for the same reason, and they end up sitting dirty in cupboards for years. The good news is that they can be cleaned at home with just the right methods.

Since winter weardoes not require frequent washing, experts say just two to three times through the season is enough. The case is different for gloves and mittens, which usually get dirtier due to touching doorknobs or falling from hands when taken off.

Thus, it’s best to give your winter gear a good clean before it is set aside for the season to avoid odours and stains from setting in permanently.

Also read | 6 winter wardrobe essentials you must have, from tailored coats to wrap jackets, belted silhouettes, more

How to clean winter puffer jackets?

For small stains, spot cleaning is often enough, as the marks don’t settle deep. A mild, dye-free detergent can be used. Apply 2-3 drops on the stain and gently rub it with your fingers. Leave it for a few minutes and rinse it with cold water.

Most puffy jackets can be cleaned in the washing machine to get rid of dirt and sweat. Experts recommend reading the care label to get a clear idea of whether the fabric is suitable for machine drying and to know the correct temperature setting. This helps them stay in the same condition, puffy and warm, even after they have been washed.

How to machine wash puffer jackets?

Begin by reading the care label to see if it can be put in the washing machine. Empty out pockets and zip them up along with the jacket. Use a cold wash on a gentle spin cycle with a mild detergent. It is best to wash the jacket alone and not overload the machine. Run it through two rinse cycles to get rid of the soap.

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How to dry them?

Drying needs to be done tactfully, as that’s when most jackets tend to get damaged. Read the care label for instructions. When machine drying, tumble dry on low with a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls. These help break down any clumps in the filling. Keep a check between cycles and shake the jacket to even out the filling. If you air dry it, hang it neatly and shake it from time to time.

How to clean winter gloves and scarves?

Cleaning winter accessories is no different. Read the care labels, and if machine wash is allowed, put the items in a mesh bag and clean them on a gentle cycle in cold water. If machine drying is allowed, tumble dry on low or simply hang them to air dry.