Guides

How to Take Care of Your Spring and Autumn Jackets

Jackets come in many different styles and materials, but how do you care for them properly? From field jackets to denim jackets – each one has its own unique design and material composition, making the right care especially important. Follow our guide to find out how to best look after your jackets.

Text: Ebba Thanner
Video: Leo Prim

Published 2025-03-27

In the guide below, we go through how to care for and wash your jacket. The guide applies to spring and autumn jackets such as field jackets, denim jackets, bomber jackets, quilted jackets, Harrington jackets and other similar models in cotton.

To learn how to care for other models, see our guides here:

How to care for your down jacket: How to Wash Your Down Jacket
How to care for your wool coat: How to Take Care of and Store Your Coat
How to care for your functional garment: How to Take Care of Your Functional Garments
How to care for your Gore-Tex jacket: How to Take Care of Your GORE-TEX Jacket

Handle with Care

Unlike many other garments, jacket care is not primarily about frequent washing but about preserving quality and freshness through proper maintenance. Air out your jacket regularly and store it in a way that maintains both its shape and function. With the right care, your jacket will stay stylish and functional for many years to come.

✔ Rotate your jacket so that it gets a break between wears, reducing wear and allowing moisture and odours to air out.
✔ Try to wash it as rarely as possible.
✔ Ensure that jackets being stored away for the season are clean and dry to prevent mould or odours.
✔ Avoid storing jackets in damp spaces such as basements or attics.

Air Out Your Jacket

Most jackets rarely need washing – instead, regular airing is the key to keeping your jacket fresh. By hanging your jacket outdoors on a balcony, terrace or near an open window, you can effectively remove odours and freshen up the material without subjecting it to washing or dry cleaning.

Washing a Jacket in the Washing Machine

- Turn the jacket inside out.
- Close any zippers and buttons to maintain the fit.
- Wash gently according to the care instructions at a low temperature and low spin cycle.
- Many modern washing machines have special programmes for down, wool and synthetic materials, helping to preserve the jacket's quality.

Wash Only When Necessary

Be gentle with the washing machine – both for the sake of your jacket and the environment. Sometimes washing is necessary, particularly for tough stains or odours that do not disappear with airing. Always follow the care instructions on your jacket, as some materials require extra caution and should not be washed at home but taken to a dry cleaner.

To Garment Care

Drying After Washing

Most jackets should not be tumble dried, as high heat can shrink the fabric, affect the fit and reduce quality. Instead, let the jacket air dry, preferably hanging on a hanger to maintain its shape.

Always follow the care instructions on your jacket for the best results. If tumble drying is allowed, use a low heat and a gentle setting.

Use a Steamer Rather Than an Iron

When it comes to jacket care, you should generally avoid ironing, as the heat can damage the material, ruin the surface or affect the jacket's properties. However, as with washing, this depends on the type of jacket and material you have.

Det går oftast bra att stryka jackor i lin, bomull eller tunnare It is usually fine to iron jackets made of linen, cotton or thinner denim, but be sure to use a low heat iron with care. Avoid pressing too hard or holding the iron in one place for too long.

An iron should be completely avoided on certain jackets, including down jackets, leather jackets, bomber jackets, waxed jackets and technical jackets, as heat can compromise their structure and function. A steamer is a gentler alternative for delicate materials – the steam helps smooth out the jacket and refresh the fabric.

Use the Right Hangers in Your Wardrobe

Storing jackets correctly helps maintain their shape and quality over time. Choosing the right hanger is more important than you might think.

- For heavy jackets such as wool coats, leather jackets and duffle coats, opt for a sturdy wooden or padded hangers that help maintain shape and support the shoulders.
- For lighter jackets, such as denim jackets or bomber jackets, thinner hangers work well as they do not require as much shoulder support as heavier jackets.
- Avoid metal hangers, as they can create marks and distort the jacket over time.

Hang Loosely – Avoid Overcrowding

Avoid squeezing jackets together in your wardrobe; instead, leave some space between them to prevent creases and unpleasant odours. Wool and down jackets, in particular, need extra room to maintain their volume and fluffiness.

Proper Seasonal Storage

When it is time to put away your lightweight spring and autumn jackets, proper storage is crucial to keeping them in good condition. Jackets should be stored in breathable garment bags to protect against dust – avoid plastic bags, as they do not allow airflow and can trap moisture.

Pass Your Jacket On

If you grow tired of your jacket –sell or donate it to support sustainability. Discover our Pre-Owned section, where you can easily hand in your jackets you no longer wear.