Burberry
Did your son or daughter get his/her nice winter coat dirty while playing outside? Don't panic! Often the coat can be saved without too much effort from mom and dad. In this blog, we explain the best way to wash a winter coat so it looks as good as new. Read along!
Can a winter coat go in the washing machine?
That just depends. Not all materials will stay nice in the washing machine. Therefore, it is always important to check the label. If the label says "dry clean only" or ''dry clean only,'' then you should take it to a professional cleaner. If the label says "machine washable," you can machine wash it at home.
As a rule of thumb, if the jacket made of natural fibers, such as wool? Then it's best to take it to the dry cleaner. If the coat is made of synthetic materials, such as polyester or nylon, then you can probably machine wash it on a gentle cycle. If you're really not sure if the winter coat can be machine washed, take it to a dry cleaner. They can clean it without damaging the fabric.
How do you machine wash a winter coat?
Often on the label of the coat, there are instructions on how to wash the jacket best to wash it. Always follow these first. If there are no specific instructions, use the following tips:
- Wash the coat inside out
By washing the coat inside out, you protect the outer fabric from damage that could occur in the washing machine.
- Use a mesh laundry bag
Using a laundry bag prevents the jacket from getting tangled in the machine. This protects buttons and zippers.
- Use a mild detergent
A mild detergent will be less likely to damage the coat's fabric. You can also use a special wool detergent if the coat is made of wool.
- Wash on a gentle and cold program
If you don't know the best program to wash the coat on, use a cold and gentle program. This will be less likely to damage the fabric.
- Hang to dry
Never put a winter coat in the dryer. The heat can damage the fabric. Instead, hang it up to dry. If possible, hang it outside in fresh air.
- Don't overload the washing machine
If you put too many clothes in the washing machine, they won't come out as clean. This also applies to coats. Preferably wash one coat at a time so there is enough room for the coat to get clean.
Removing stains from a coat
The best way to remove a stain from your winter coat depends on the type of stain, as well as the material of the coat. Again, look at the jacket's label. If the label says ''dry clean only,'' then you should take it to a professional cleaner. If the label says the coat is ''machine washable,'' then you can try to remove the stain yourself.
How to treat the most common spots:
Mud: Let the mud dry and then brush off as much as possible with a brush. If the stain persists, you can try removing it with detergent and lukewarm water.
Grass: First, brush away the excess grass with a stiff brush. Then soak the area in cold water for 30 minutes. Apply detergent and scrub with a soft brush. Rinse with cold water and repeat if necessary.
Grease: First remove as much grease as possible with a paper towel. Then treat the stain with a detergent. Leave it on for at least 15 minutes and then wash according to the label directions.
Above all, do it carefully!
These are some tips you could use for cleaning a coat. It is always recommended to follow the instructions in the label! That way you avoid disappointment if things go wrong. Are you really not sure what the best way is? Then always visit a dry cleaner. Especially with expensive coats, this is definitely recommended, so you can enjoy your purchase longer.
