Restoring the softness and volume of a down coat after washing it can be a real nightmare. This is due to the type of filling they use, made of feathers or down, which tends to clump together when not dried properly. However, there is a very simple solution to restore the texture and volume of the coat and make it look like new in a matter of minutes.
Restoring the shape and volume of a down coat is not only a question of aesthetics, it also improves its thermal performance. A well-cared-for coat will keep you warm throughout the winter season, as the filling is not compressed and can retain the air that acts as insulation. In addition to proper washing and drying, do not expose your down coat to sources of direct heat, such as radiators or intense sunlight, as excessive heat can damage the filling.
Tip for restoring the volume of your down coat
Down coats have become an essential basic for the winter months. Thanks to their filling, these garments provide excellent insulation capacity, keeping you warm without adding extra weight.
However, despite their benefits, taking care of down coats can be somewhat complicated. If the washing and drying instructions are not followed, the filling clumps together, causing the coat to lose its fluffiness and look flat. This is where the trick of tennis balls comes in, a technique that will help you restore the texture and volume to the garment easily and effectively.
The secret to restoring the volume of your down coat after washing is very simple and requires no special skill. The key is to use tennis balls during the drying process in the dryer. Why? Tennis balls help the feathers redistribute evenly as they dry, preventing them from clumping in specific areas of the coat. To carry out this trick, follow these steps:
- The first thing you should do is wash your down coat following the instructions on the label. It is advisable to use a mild detergent and avoid using fabric softeners, as these products can damage the feathers and reduce their thermal insulation capacity. If possible, wash the coat on a delicate cycle and in cold or warm water to prevent damage to the filling.
- Once you have washed your coat, the next step is to prepare it for drying. Place the coat in the dryer and add two or three clean tennis balls. These balls will help the down distribute more evenly while the coat dries.
- It is important that you use a low temperature drying program, as excessive heat can damage the feathers and affect the shape of the coat. Let the tennis balls do their work by gently tapping the coat while it rotates in the dryer.
- After one cycle of drying, take the coat out of the dryer and check how it has turned out. The filling should be fluffy to the touch and the coat should have regained its original shape. If you think it necessary, you can repeat the drying process for a few extra minutes to make sure the down is completely distributed.
If you don’t have a dryer at home, after washing your coat, place it on a flat, horizontal surface. Every so often, shake it well and gently tap the areas where the down is caked. You can also press different areas with your hands to distribute the filling evenly.
If you have time and patience, you can let the coat air dry, but remember that it is important not to leave it damp for a long time, as water can damage the filling if it is not dried properly.
Additional tips
To ensure that your down coat remains in perfect condition for a long time, it is essential to know how to store it properly. When you are not using it, make sure you store it in a dry and well-ventilated place. It is best to hang it on a wide rack, preferably made of wood or padded, so that it does not lose its shape and the down does not get compressed. Avoid folding it, as this can affect the distribution of the filling, and over time, can damage the structure of the coat.
Another key aspect is to avoid direct exposure to extreme heat sources. Although the down coat is designed to maintain body heat, direct contact with intense heat, such as radiators or direct sunlight, can damage the down fibers. Finally, it is advisable to clean your down coat regularly. Although it is not necessary to wash it after each use, it is important to clean it regularly to prevent stains, dirt or bad odor from accumulating.
