by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: February 17, 2007   Last Updated: May 05, 2012

Feather-filled jackets are toasty and warm, even in the most frigid, tundra-like climates. Nothing beats a puffy parka on a cold winter day. However, even a winter coat can become dirty, soiled, and stinky. Dry-cleaning is costly, so you may want to wash your cozy outerwear at home.

How can you clean your down- or feather-filled jacket or vest? Nearly everyone knows that feathers can become soggy and clumpy when wet. Can you really launder a jacket that is filled with them?

Certainly you can! You just need a can of tennis balls!

• Basic Steps For Washing 

This is simple! Three easy steps!

First, you must remove and fur or leather collars or other accessories, if your jacket or vest has them. Usually, these will zip or snap off easily.

Place your jacket ALONE in the washing machine. Launder it on a Gentle cycle (set for warm temperature). Use detergent, as usual. Do not use bleach. If your washing machine has a No-Agitate option, select this.

When the wash cycle ends, remove your jacket immediately. At this point, it will look saggy and soggy. Do not be alarmed. The next step will restore it to its original puffy form.

• Drying Tips 

Dry your jacket alone in your automatic dryer. Toss three brand-new/clean tennis balls in the dryer with it. Set your dryer warm, but not hot. (Most down jackets are made of nylon, and you do not want to melt this!)

Do not use the Delicate setting, as this will not provide enough air or motion to restore your jacket.

You may have to run your jacket through a few dryer cycles, but it will come out clean and puffy, just like new.

Do not use the spiky plastic dryer balls. These wreak havoc on your dryer. They bounce too hard and can actually upset the balance of your machine. In fact, most appliance manufacturers will not honor product warranties for customers who use dryer balls.

Tennis balls are much gentler and lighter, and they are ideal for fluffing up feather-filled items. (Note: I always keep a can of clean tennis balls in my laundry room, just for washing down jackets, blankets, etc.)

When the dryer stops, and your jacket is done, be very careful in handling it. Nylon can heat up quickly. Also, the snaps, zippers, and other hardware on your garment will be quite hot. Allow the jacket to cool off before you attempt to wear it.

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