washing / cleaning a down jacket /sleeping bag

jammy_dodger

sorry if there is a thread on this already did make a search

i have a duck/goose feather down jacket which is in need of a freshen up are there any tips on how to wash / clean it, would the cleaning methods work too for my down sleeping bag ? have had that dry cleaned but that is an expensive buiseness i do use a liner in my sleeping bag but it still needs a freshen from time to time


thanks in advance JD xx

jackieglasgow

I would wash it in the washing machine, if you have a tumble dryer, if not get to the launderette. I wash all my feather stuff and it comes out fine and fluffy. Not cheap with electricity, and possible it would be better to do it in summer neat year for the following winter, as you can tumble, line dry then fluff in the TD to finish off which is a bit less electricity. If they don't look dirty, then buy bounce or similar and tumble dry them for a while to get some of the dust out and fluff and freshen them.

New_Collier

I have both dry cleaned and washed these things. I have got the best results from washing although it's not what is advised on the label so I suppose there's risks involved. [Dry cleaning was expensive and things came back smelling stale]
I wash my down/ feather sleeping bags on 30 degree short wash, with very little detergent then thoroughly dry outside on a blowy day - and keep on shaking, and bashing them about to make sure any clumped bits fluff out again. I have also put them in a tumble drier - but drum doesnt seem to be big enough to allow them to fluff back as much. I turn them inside out, so the cotton lining gets the best chance to be cleaned and freshened. I suppose I have saved a packet over time.

Kefi

I have washed all sorts of various feather things. Yes, they can be washed, just as eiderdowns were in the 'good' old days.
1.If you use your own machine, it may be clogged afterwards, depending on the covering on the item. You can use the launderette bag wash, but let them know the filling, a good one will ask.
2. Dry it yourself (cheaper) on a warm sunny day. Put over a washing rack and periodically chuck it about a bit and fluff it up. When nearly dry move to warm shade and chuck about .
3. Invest in some tumble dryer balls (£1, Poundshop), dont use tennis balls as they can deposit bits. Dry in a COLD tumble dryer, as a hot one may cause the feathers to disintergrate. Also cool makes the feathers retain their shape and volume.

jammy_dodger

well you live and learn
thanks for your replys i never knew you could successfully wash down gear in a washing machine ..will just have to wait for a summers day now:D