Freshen up your winter coat in minutes: No washer needed
Winter is quickly approaching, and it's time to take our warm jackets and coats out of the closet. There's a quick and simple trick that will let you refresh your jacket in just a few minutes.
9:12 AM EST, November 14, 2024
However, it's worth ensuring that the jackets not only look new but also smell fresh, especially after months of storage. If you're put off by the thought of tedious washing and long drying, we have good news: you can do this without using a washing machine.
Refresh your jacket before winter
If your jacket has absorbed a musty smell or simply needs refreshing after being in the closet for a long time, a simple way is to hang it in the fresh air. Just hang the jacket on a balcony or in the garden. However, avoid UV rays, which can cause the material to fade, and we definitely want to avoid that.
Clean air helps to air out the fabric and remove unpleasant odors that may have accumulated over months of storage. In a cooler but dry environment, even moisture from inside the material quickly evaporates, making the jacket fresh in just a few minutes.
How to remove dust from a jacket? Dry cleaning strategy
Apart from smell, winter jackets are often covered with dust, especially in places like shoulders and sleeves. Washing the entire jacket just because of a few stains is unnecessary. Try the dry cleaning method:
- Soft-bristled brush – Gently brush the jacket's surface to remove dust and surface dirt. The soft bristles allow you to clean the material without risking damage to the fabric.
- Spot cleaning stains – If your jacket has small stains, you can remove them without washing the whole jacket. Prepare a solution of warm water and a small amount of mild cleaning agent. Soak a soft cloth in it, then gently rub the stain. Avoid wetting large areas – the less water, the better for the down inside the jacket.
How to store winter jackets to keep them fresh?
Winter clothes that spend months in the closet may absorb a musty smell. To avoid this:
- Invest in special covers – Preferably breathable ones that protect the jacket from dust while also allowing the material to "breathe."
- Do not use perfumes on the material – Although the scent may seem pleasant, perfumes often leave marks on the fabric, which over time can attract dirt.
- Choose high-quality jackets – Well-made jackets from high-quality materials are easier to care for and retain freshness longer.