Washing leather items can be tricky, as they can shrink and stretch when immersed in water for a prolonged period of time. For this reason, we recommend handwashing leather items - be it leather gloves, shoes, or jackets. No need to soak the leather entirely in water - just wipe it down with a wet cloth soaked in some mild detergent.
If you’re using a new detergent, test it on an inconspicuous area on the inside of the jacket or coat to make sure that it doesn’t stain or damage the leather. Once done with the cleaning, gently shake the coat and place it on a hanger to dry. Wait for it to dry completely before you put it back into a closet or wardrobe, as it can develop mold or a stale smell otherwise. Coats made of faux leather or vinyl, too, are best cleaned just like leather to prevent any rips and crumbling of the fabric.
Down coats (or puffer coats, as they’re currently known) are immensely practical and surprisingly easy to care for. These lightweight and warm coats, vests, and jackets are machine-washable at home. Before washing a down coat, detach any decorative elements, such as fur trims, and turn the sleeves inside out. Launder puffer coats and jackets alone in lukewarm water on a gentle cycle. Either air dry or dry on the lowest setting in the dryer.
Related Article: How to Launder and Care For 9 Common Fabrics
Faux fur is becoming increasingly popular these days, and for good reason - it’s both animal-friendly and easy on the wallet. Faux fur is made of washable synthetic fibers, but they are much gentler than regular polyester, so it’s best to handwash faux fur trim and clothing.
Simply soak the item in some lukewarm water and focus on areas with the most wear and tear while washing, namely the sleeves, the collar, and areas around the zipper and pockets. Shake gently after washing and air-dry on a coat hanger. Once completely dry, you can fluff up the fur with your fingers or a wide-toothed combe in areas that appear matted or uneven. Never dry faux fur in a clothes dryer - even minimal heat will melt the fibers and ruin the coat forever.
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