How To Properly Wash and Store Your Winter Coats
Your winter coat is more than just a piece of clothing—it's been your trusty sidekick all winter long! That's why we want to help you take care of it the right way, so it's just as ready for the first snowfall next year as you will be.
Whether you've been rocking a puffy down jacket or a classic wool coat, we're here to walk you through the best tips for winter clothes storage. Here's to moving into warmer days with one less thing to worry about, knowing our winter essentials are well taken care of and ready for their next adventure.
Material Matters: What Are Your Winter Coats Made of?
Before you start sudsing and storing, familiarize yourself with the different materials your coats might be made of—each will have its own set of cleaning and storage guidelines.
Wool Coats
Trademarked by their warmth and weight, wool coats are a winter staple. But, they're also one of the trickiest to clean. Being a natural fiber, wool can shrink if exposed to the wrong water temperature or agitation.
Down Jackets
Commonly filled with goose or duck down, these puffy parkas are the epitome of warmth. However, their unique structure requires special attention to retain their insulating properties after washing.
Synthetic Materials
Polyester, nylon, and other synthetic fabrics are durable and often easier to care for than natural fibers like wool or down. However, specific synthetics may need low-heat handling to prevent damage.
Leather and Suede
These luxurious materials require the most delicate care. Leather coats should not be machine-washed and have specific requirements for maintaining their texture and color.
Pre-Wash Check
Always check your coat for any stains or spots that might need pre-treatment. A bit of preparation can prevent you from accidentally setting a stain during machine washing.
Testing for Colorfastness
In an inconspicuous area, apply a small amount of water and a drop of detergent, and gently rub the spot with a white cloth. If the color transfers, plan a hand wash with a gentler detergent.
Machine vs. Hand Wash
Should you trust the machine or go old-school with a hand wash? The decision is critical and could make or break your coat's lifespan.
Machine Wash for Wool and Synthetic Fabrics
A machine wash can efficiently clean your wool or synthetic coat. Use a mild detergent, cold water, and the gentlest cycle available. Always air dry to prevent shrinking or misshaping.
Hand Wash for Delicates
Prepare a basin with cold water and gentle detergent. Submerge the coat and gently agitate the water. Rinse with cold water until the soap is removed. Avoid wringing the coat, instead gently pressing out the excess water and laying it flat to dry.
Techniques for Various Coats
Proper drying is crucial to avoid mold, mildew, and funky odors.
Drying Wool and Synthetic Coats
After washing, reshape the coat on a padded hanger and allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight as it can fade colors.
Drying Down Jackets
Remove the down jacket from the water and gently squeeze out excess moisture—do not wring. Use a dryer on the lowest heat setting, periodically checking for clumps and redistributing the down.
Drying Leather and Suede Coats
Never use a dryer for leather or suede; the heat can cause severe damage. Instead, remove excess moisture with a cloth, reshape, and allow it to air dry away from direct heat.
Best Winter Clothes Storage Tips
Following these winter clothes storage tips will extend your coats' life and preserve their appearance for the next winter season.
Wool Coats
Before storing, ensure the coat is completely dry to prevent a musty smell. Store in a cloth garment bag or a cool, dry area. To help maintain shape, consider stuffing the pockets with tissue paper.
Down Jackets
Store down jackets in a breathable bag, away from direct sunlight and moisture. While air-tight containers can prevent moisture, they can compress the down over time, reducing insulation capabilities.
Synthetic Coats
Hang synthetic coats on sturdy hangers in a cool, dry area. Store in a breathable garment bag to protect against dust and moisture.
Leather and Suede
A well-ventilated closet and a dust cover is best for storing leather and suede coats. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew.
Where to Keep Winter Clothes Storage
Your closet is, of course, a great choice. You might be able to fit some clothes under your bed or in an extra trunk. Just make sure the area is dry and well-ventilated—never store your winter coats in a damp basement or attic.
Let's face it though—winter clothes are thick and take up valuable closet space. If you find yourself pushing past them to get to your swimsuits and t-shirts, consider a self storage unit. You'll free up space and have peace of mind knowing your winter essentials are safely stored until next year.
Trust Midgard Self Storage for all your winter clothes storage needs. Friendly and informative, our team is always ready to assist you with any storage questions or concerns. We want to make your storage experience as practical and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on enjoying the warmer days ahead!
Find a unit today.