The Best Way to Dry Clean Winter Jackets Made of Wool, Down, and Leather

The experts at Cameo by Copeland Cleaners are often asked by our clients, “What is the best way to dry clean winter jackets made of wool, down, and leather?” We always advise you to consult the care label and contact us regarding your “dry-clean only” items. And, while for materials such as wool or down that are tagged as being machine washable, while you could use a gentle wash cycle with cold water and a specific wool or down detergent, issues could occur when drying. Leather requires specialized care, as well. To ensure that your winter outerwear remains in top condition, your best option is to arrange for Cameo by Copeland Cleaners to pick up and deliver your freshly restored winter outerwear. Here are some of the reason why:

For “Dry-Clean Only” Items:

• Check the Label: If your jacket’s care label explicitly states “dry clean only,” your safest and best option is to take it to a professional dry cleaner.

• Professional Cleaning: Cameo by Copeland Cleaners’ experts use dry cleaning solvents and processes that are safer for sensitive fabrics like wool and leather, preventing damage that can occur with water, agitation, and dryer heat.

For Machine Washable Wool Jackets:

There are care labels that state that some wool jackets are machine washable. This is generally for garments that are wool blends with wool comprising a low percentage of the fabric. However, Cameo by Copeland Cleaners cannot stress enough the importance of dry cleaning over applying water then heat to your garment. When you dry clean winter jackets you completely avoid the possibility of damage, shrinkage, garment warping and more issues that destroy your jacket’s shape, size, and feel. If you do launder your “washable” wool jackets, follow these instructions:

• Air Dry Flat: Lay the jacket flat to dry to prevent shrinking or stretching.
• Avoid the Dryer: Never put a wool jacket in a tumble dryer, as heat and agitation can felt (i.e. compress like boiled wool), and shrink it. When this occurs, there is little that can be done to reverse the damage.

For Machine Washable Down Jackets:

• Again, this process is undesirable for a number of reasons. Down feathers contain oils that are released when the garment is exposed to water and heat. The oils will likely permanently stain your jacket’s fabric. These stains are both unsightly and permanent.
• Another casualty of machine washing your down jackets is compression. Down feathers are extremely lightweight and compress easily when wet and then dried. While there are numerous techniques to refluff and restore the shape of your jacket’s down feathers, it is tedious work and can easily create another issue: oil released from the feathers can permanently stain your jacket’s fabric. Here again, dry cleaning winter jackets is your best, and safest option.

For Leather Jackets:

• Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, use a stiff brush to remove dirt or a damp cloth with mild soap to dab away spots. While this is acceptable for dried food that can be easily “lifted” it is not recommended for any oil or grease stains of any size.
• Professional Cleaning: For significant dirt or if the care tag suggests it, take the jacket to Cameo by Copeland Cleaners. Our staff of experts includes professionals who specialize in leather care.

Many New Yorkers cannot wait to be reunited with your Fall and Winter outerwear again. The best way to maintain and to protect your investment in these garments is to have them professionally dry cleaned during the season and, of course, before you put them in storage when the temperatures rise next Spring. That is why for dry cleaning winter jackets to maintaining your bespoke wardrobes and every garment care need in between, contact the professionals at Cameo by Copeland Cleaners is the best way to enjoy your clothing for seasons and years to come. Call now to arrange pick up and delivery at your convenience.