Dos and Don'ts 

           7 Key Recommendations        Down Jacket

           7 Key Recommendations        Down Jacket

By Iglee Tonk

Invest in a down jacket for high-altitude winter treks—it keeps you warm at -30° with proper layering.

Filled with down from ducks or geese, down jackets create air pockets that trap and retain heat, providing excellent insulation for warmth.

Down jackets offer extreme cold comfort but come at a price, ranging from $4,000 for basic to $200 for high fill-power options.

Caring for a down jacket can be a bit demanding but these :8 tips will assist in prolonging its lifespan. 

1. Don’t buy a down jacket with less than 550 fill-power rating

1. Don’t buy a down jacket with less than 550 fill-power rating

When buying a down jacket, focus on fill-power and weight.

For a Himalayan trek, choose a down jacket with a fill-power rating of at least 550 and consider a heavier one for better heat retention.

2.Avoid wearing it   while trekking.

Avoid trekking in your down jacket to prevent overheating and damage. Layer with sweaters and fleece for comfort.

3. Avoid wearing a down jacket in the rain.

Down jackets aren't waterproof; they're only splashproof. Prolonged exposure to water diminishes fluffiness. If it's raining, wear a raincoat over it.

4. Avoid frequent washing of your down jacket.

Don't wash your down jacket often; once every 10-15 treks is enough for durability.

5. Remember to regularly air out your down jacket.

Air out your down jacket often in sunlight to prevent moisture and maintain fluffiness. If washing, choose a sunny day for even drying.

6. Tips for Optimal Dry Cleaning of Down Jackets

To preserve your down jacket, opt for dry cleaning over machine washing to prevent clumping and feather damage.

Select an experienced dry cleaner for down jackets to avoid potential fabric and feather damage. 

I choose eClean for my down jacket—online, eco-friendly, dry cleaning service  no harmful chemicals or heat, simple to use.

         Avoid excessive cleaning of the jacket.

Avoid over-cleaning your down jacket to prevent damage and maintain insulation. Dry clean annually, unless it gets dirty or stained from frequent use.

Identify stains and issues accurately.

Highlight stains or specific areas needing attention to the dry cleaner to ensure proper cleaning.

For down jackets, proper care is key to avoiding replacements. When hand washing isn't feasible, opt for dry cleaning.

7. Avoid folding your down jacket.

Don't fold: hang your down jacket on a quality hanger in a corner to avoid zipper damage.