Caring for your winter wear essentials
As the temperatures continue to drop and the snow flurries fall, your puffy vests, soft scarves and warm boots have probably begun making their way out of your closets.
These items are an essential part of Indiana winters, yet how to properly care for them can be tricky.
How often should I wash my winter coat? Do I need to dry clean that Christmas sweater?
We’ve got the answers to help ensure your winter essentials are fresh and clean all season long.
Down jackets, vests and parkas
How to clean: It’s important that if you choose to wash your down items yourself that you do so in a front-loading washer as a top-loading machine can damage your clothing. Zip up every pocket, close all flaps and turn your jacket inside out if possible. Wash your down items on gentle, with cold water and a small amount of gentle laundry detergent. To dry, place your down items in the dryer and run on low with tennis balls. The balls help redistribute the filling throughout the jacket. Depending on the size, you may have to run the item through the dryer more than once to ensure it is completely dry.
How often to clean: Over-washing down materials can cause the feathers to break. Wash your go-to winter jacket at the beginning and end of every season.
Cashmere
How to clean: While it is best to dry clean, you can keep your cashmere sweater clean and soft by gently hand washing with baby shampoo or a mild detergent. Neverpick up your sweater by the shoulders! Keep it in a lump when you pick it up after washing. Lay the item flat to dry, pressing it gently with a towel. If you want to dry it quickly, use a salad spinner!
How often to clean: Since it is such a delicate fabric, you should only wash cashmere after 3 wears.
Scarves
How to clean: Silk, cashmere, wool and cotton. Scarves can be made from a variety of materials, so it is best to always wash your scarf according to the label. We recommend placing the scarves into a mesh washing bag so the scarf doesn’t get tangled in other clothing, which will cause stretching. Avoid wringing out the scarf after cleaning as this can cause damage and disfigure the shape of your scarf.
How often to clean: These important accessories are often overlooked! You should wash your scarves about 3-5 times a season, depending on use.
Winter boots
How to clean: If you happen to fall victim to salt stains, you can dilute a tablespoon of vinegar with equal parts water and use a soft cloth to dab on leather. After removing the salt and drying, consider applying leather conditioner to keep the salt and vinegar from dulling or cracking your boots.
How often to clean: One of the best things you can do is invest in quality protective spraysfor your shoes. Treating your leather boots, sneakers and other essential shoes every six months can help you avoid unwatched splotches and stains.
To ensure your winter wear is well taken care of, bring it into your local Fabric Care Cleaners. Our team has years of experiencing thoroughly treating and cleaning all fabrics and is dedicated to helping our customers look their best.
From carefully washing and folding your favorite sweater to refreshing your boots after a wet winter, we can handle all of your clothing essentials to your satisfaction, at a price you can afford. Learn more about our services today!
