How to Care for Your Winter Jacket & Coat

Your winter coat is one of the hardest-working items in your wardrobe. It faces rain, wind, mud and everything the British weather can throw at it — often for months at a time. Proper care will keep it performing well and looking good for years.

At Bordon Dry Cleaners, we specialise in cleaning all types of winter outerwear — from everyday puffer jackets to premium coats like Canada Goose, Moose Knuckles and Mackage. Here's our guide to keeping yours in top condition.

How Often Should You Clean Your Winter Coat?

Most winter coats should be professionally cleaned at least once a season — ideally at the end of winter before you store them away. If you wear your coat every day, you might want to clean it mid-season too.

Don't leave cleaning until next winter. Oils, sweat and dirt that have accumulated over the season can damage the fabric and filling if left for months.

Puffer Jackets and Down Coats

Down-filled jackets and coats require specialist care. The key things to know:

• Don't machine wash at home unless the care label specifically says you can — and even then, use a front-loading machine (not a top-loader with an agitator) on a gentle cycle
• Dry thoroughly — down that isn't completely dry will develop mildew and lose its loft. If machine washing at home, tumble dry on low with a couple of tennis balls to break up clumps of down
• Professional cleaning is safer — particularly for premium brands and heavily soiled coats

Canada Goose, Moose Knuckles and Mackage

Premium outerwear brands like Canada Goose, Moose Knuckles and Mackage represent a significant investment. They deserve specialist care.

These brands often use specific fills, fabrics and trims (including real fur) that require expert handling. Our specialist coat cleaning service has experience with all premium outerwear brands and uses appropriate methods for each.

Wool Coats and Overcoats

Wool coats should be professionally dry cleaned — never machine washed. Wool can felt and shrink dramatically in water, and the structured construction of a wool overcoat can be permanently damaged.

Between cleans, brush your wool coat with a clothes brush after each wear to remove surface dust and debris.

Storing Your Coat at the End of Winter

Before you store your coat for the summer:

• Have it professionally cleaned — storing a dirty coat allows stains to set and can attract moths
• Store on a proper hanger with wide shoulders
• Use a breathable garment bag — not plastic
• Store in a cool, dry, dark place
• Consider cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths

Ready to Clean Your Coat?

Drop it in to us at Bordon Dry Cleaners. We'll assess it and confirm the price before we begin. Our winter jacket and coat cleaning service covers all types and brands.