What’s the best way to take care of your down gear?
Wash: Down, specifically, requires a gentle, detergent-free cleaner. We recommend Nikwax Down Wash Direct, which is specially formulated to launder down feathers without weighing down the loft (also see Down Proof, below).
Rinse & Spin: So long as there isn’t a center-mount agitator, a special washing machine isn’t required for down gear. If the washer is large enough to handle the load, it’s good to go. The hard and fast rule is to rinse, spin, then spin again. Get as much water out before drying as possible.
Dry: Relax to the rhythmic sound of a tennis ball tumbling through the dry cycle. The down will be clumpy from its time in the washer, and drying it completely is critical. Tossing a clean tennis ball (or two) in the dryer provides a gentle “smack” to break up the clumps. Fair warning: this is not a short process and you will likely have moments of clumpy terror when you check on the progress. Keep resetting the timer until your beloveds are lump-free and fully dry.
Results: When you pull your newly revived jacket out of the dryer, not only will it be gleaming with cleanliness, but it will also be puffier than when you began the day. By gently cleansing the delicate feathers, Nikwax Down Wash Directrevives loft and reinvigorates the down’s ability to trap air once again.
Store: Hang it all out there. Just say no to storing down gear in tight stuff sacks. Over time, perpetually “squished” down feathers will become more resistant to re-lofting to their original air-trapping excellence. Store down apparel and sleeping bags hanging freely with plenty of space or hanging in large, breathable bags.