How to Clean Down-Filled Garments

Table of Contents:

Caring for Down Filled Garments
Additional Tips and Advice

Garments insulated with goose down are extremely warm and durable. Keeping your down items fluffy and clump-free takes a little effort, but is well worth it.

Caring for Down Filled Garments:

Check the tag on your down-filled garments to make sure that it indicates that they are NOT dry-clean only and that it is safe to wash them. If it is, you should wash down-filled garments separately, using warm water and the delicate cycle.

If your down item is over-sized, such as a king size comforter or sleeping bag, DO NOT attempt to wash in a regular sized washer as it may damage the machine. Instead, take it to a Laundromat and use an over-sized washer.
To help your down-filled item retain its loft (fluffiness), place a tennis ball in the wash with the item. This will help keep the down from clumping.
After washing, if the tag on your garment indicates that it is safe to place the item in the dryer, make sure the dryer is set on its lowest setting, and place two or three tennis balls in the dryer with the item to help it retain its loft and avoid clumping.

Additional Tips and Advice

Store down-filled items out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources (such as vents or fireplaces).
If your down-filled item indicates dry-clean only but you are unwilling or unable to take it to the dry cleaners, products such as Dryel may prove helpful in cleaning the garment.
Once a down-filled item is washed, it may never regain the loft it had when it was new. Don’t worry—this is normal, and the item will still retain the warmth and comfort of down.
Be consistent with your cleaning options—if you’ve opted to dry clean a down-filled garment, then don’t switch to washer-cleaning. Changing your cleaning methods will lessen the life of your down-filled garment.
When storing your down-filled item for the season, make sure it is completely dry. Storing a damp item will result in mold and mildew problems.