Keep your Free Country outerwear looking new with these essential cleaning and maintenance tips.
Your Free Country winter jacket is your go-to shield against the cold, but to keep it in top shape season after season, a little TLC goes a long way. Here's a handy guide to cleaning, maintaining and storing your coat so it stays as fresh and functional as the day you bought it.
Read the Care Label
Before doing anything, always check the care label inside your jacket. Free Country outerwear comes with detailed instructions that cater to its specific materials and construction. Following these will help maintain your jacket’s performance and longevity.
Spot Cleaning for Small Stains
Sometimes, a full wash isn’t necessary. For small stains or spots, mix a bit of mild detergent with lukewarm water and gently dab the area with a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing, which can damage the fabric. Rinse with another damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
Machine Washing Done Right
Many Free Country jackets are machine washable, but it’s important to do it correctly.
- Wash separately: Wash jackets alone to avoid color transfer and abrasion from other garments.
- Zip and fasten: Zip up all zippers and fasten any Velcro straps or buttons to prevent snags.
- Gentle cycle: Choose a cold water cycle to safeguard the fabric, preserve the seams and prevent shrinking.
- Mild detergent: Use a mild, gentle detergent: Harsh chemicals can weaken fabrics and fade colors.
- Skip the fabric softener: It can break down the fibers in performance fabrics, making them less breathable and less effective at wicking away moisture.
Drying Tips for Perfect Results
Proper drying is crucial to maintaining the jacket’s form and function.
- Air dry: Hang your jacket in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heaters.
- Tumble dry: If the care label permits, tumble dry on a low setting. Add clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff up the insulation.
- Remove promptly: As soon as the drying cycle ends, remove the jacket to avoid wrinkles.
- Don’t iron: It can ruin the fabric and mess with your jacket’s waterproofing.
- No dry cleaning: The chemicals can be too harsh for technical fabrics, unless the care label specifically says it’s safe.
Smart Storage Solutions
When winter ends and it’s time to stow away your jacket, follow these storage tips to keep it in perfect condition.
- Clean it first: Always store your jacket clean and fully dry to prevent mildew and odors.
- Climate control: Keep your coats in a cool, dry place to deter moisture build-up, mold and damage from sunlight.
- Hang it up: Use a sturdy hanger to help your jacket hold its shape and avoid wrinkles or fold lines.
- Keep it covered: If you want to go the extra mile, store coats in fabric garment bags to shield them from dust and moths.