Your trusty insulated jacket does more than just keep you warm—it’s your adventure sidekick. Lightweight, efficient and endlessly packable, it’s thoughtfully engineered to handle the elements. Both down and synthetic insulation have their perks: down is our go-to for its warmth and compressibility, while synthetic offers similar benefits but stays warm when wet, though it's slightly less packable. If you want that beloved jacket to continue delivering maximum warmth and comfort, it needs proper care. So let’s break down the essentials for keeping your insulation—whether natural down or synthetic—performing like new.

Why Proper Care Matters: Keep Your Insulation In The Game

The magic behind both down and synthetic insulation lies in their ability to trap heat within tiny air pockets. But without regular cleaning and care, those pockets can get clogged with dirt, oils and grime, leaving your jacket flat, deflated and—worst of all—inefficient. Skip the upkeep, and your insulation will lose its loft, warmth and, frankly, its dignity.

When To Wash: Is It Time For A Tune-Up?

If your sleeves are looking a bit shiny or you catch a whiff of last weekend's bonfire, it’s probably time for a wash. Generally, a few washes per season will do the trick if you’re anything like us and practically live in your jacket. Otherwise, one to two cleanings a year should be sufficient to keep your insulation in prime condition.

How To Wash Your Insulated Jacket: Step-By-Step

Step 1: Prep Work
Before the wash cycle begins, zip up all zippers, fasten Velcro®, and loosen any drawstrings. This helps protect the jacket’s construction and ensures it doesn’t lose its shape in the wash.

Step 2: The Main Event: Washing
Always follow the instructions on the care label—your jacket’s secret manual. Use a front-loading washing machine, as top-loaders can be rough on the fabric. For down jackets, opt for a specific down detergent like Nikwax Down Wash, which protects the natural oils and helps ensure the fibers stay in top shape. Skip regular detergents—they can strip away the essential oils in down and damage synthetic fibers, turning your jacket limp.

Step 3: Rinse And Repeat
Once the wash cycle finishes, give your jacket an extra rinse and spin cycle. This helps remove any residual detergent and ensures the jacket is as clean as possible before heading to the dryer.

Step 4: Dry With Care
Dry your jacket on a low heat setting. Toss in a couple of dryer balls (or clean tennis balls) to break up clumps and restore the jacket’s loft. Don’t rush it—let it dry thoroughly. Damp insulation, whether down or synthetic, is the enemy of warmth.

Step 5: Ready For The Next Adventure
After drying, give your jacket a light fluff. If all went according to plan, it should be looking and performing as good as the day you bought it.

Off-Season Storage: Maintain That Loft For Next Year

When your insulated jacket goes into hibernation for the warmer months, make sure to store it properly. Hang it up in a dry closet, or if space is tight, use a large stuff sack—but avoid long-term compression. Over-compressing down or synthetic fibers can make it tough for the insulation to bounce back when you need it.

By taking these steps, you’ll not only extend the life of your jacket but also ensure it delivers warmth and comfort when it counts. Proper care is the key to keeping your insulation performing at its best, season after season.