February 27, 2026, 9:59 am | Read time: 2 minutes
When it gets a bit warmer after winter, down jackets usually end up back in the closet. Before that, they should be cleaned so they’re ready for the next winter. However, the jacket can clump up during cleaning. A simple trick can prevent this.
Especially in winter, when slush and snow are common, down jackets get dirty quickly. It’s often necessary to clean the jacket. A trip to a professional cleaner isn’t always required, as many down jackets can be easily washed at home in your own washing machine.
What to Consider in Advance
If the care instructions allow, put the down jacket in the machine with a special down detergent or a fine or wool detergent suitable for down, explains the German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery and Detergent Association (IKW). However, note that the manufacturer does not provide a warranty for damage if the wash symbol is crossed out and you wash your down jacket anyway. The drum should also have a capacity of at least six kilograms.
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Then, add two to four clean tennis balls to the washing drum. This trick also works for down bedding. The balls help prevent the down from clumping through their movement. Generally, down jackets should be washed at no more than 40 degrees Celsius. Also, no other clothing should be in the drum.
Spin Well and Dry Twice
The jacket is also cleaned in a special, gentle wash cycle and then spun. Experts recommend repeating the final spin cycle, as down absorbs several times its weight in water.
For drying, put the jacket in the dryer—again, separate from other laundry. A few tennis balls can also be helpful during the drying process to fluff it up. The drying is repeated twice, for one hour each, at a maximum of 100 degrees Celsius. Afterward, shake out the down jacket—and be ready for the next winter walk.
With material from dpa