The Ultimate Guide To Washing Your Teddy Coat

Keeping your teddy coat clean can be a challenge, especially if it's extensively used or exposed to rain. While some coats may be machine-washed, others may require dry cleaning or even come with a “do not wash” label. To maintain the coat's appearance and texture, it's crucial to use the appropriate cleaning methods and products. Hand-washing is generally the safest option, as it minimises the risk of damage. When hand-washing, use a mild detergent and avoid excessive agitation or wringing. For machine-washing, opt for a delicate cycle with cold water and a gentle detergent. Regardless of the cleaning method, always air-dry your teddy coat and avoid using a heated dryer, as the heat can damage the synthetic fibres.

How to Wash Teddy Coats

Check the tag for specific cleaning instructions

When it comes to washing a teddy coat, checking the tag for specific cleaning instructions is crucial. While it may seem like a mundane task, it can save you a lot of trouble and help you effectively clean your coat without causing any damage. Here are some detailed instructions on why checking the tag is important and how to interpret the information provided:

Most clothing items, including teddy coats, come with tags that provide specific cleaning instructions. These instructions are meant to guide you on the best way to care for your garment. While you may choose to deviate from these guidelines, understanding them is essential to maintaining the quality of your coat. The tag will typically indicate whether the coat needs to be washed alone, if the colours will run, or if it should be washed with similar-coloured items.

Standardised symbols are often used on clothing tags to indicate how an item should be cared for. These symbols can include icons such as a bucket filled with water, indicating machine washability, or a circle with a diagonal line through it, signifying that the item should not be tumble dried. Familiarise yourself with these symbols to interpret the tag's instructions accurately.

The tag's instructions will also help you decide on the next steps for washing your teddy coat. For example, if the tag recommends dry cleaning only, you may opt to take your coat to a professional dry cleaner. On the other hand, if the tag indicates that machine washing is safe, you can proceed with that method, being sure to follow any additional instructions provided.

Additionally, the tag may offer insights into the specific type of detergent or water temperature that is best suited for your teddy coat. Some coats may require a mild detergent, while others can tolerate a regular laundry detergent. Similarly, the tag may specify whether to use cold, lukewarm, or hot water for washing.

Lastly, the tag may provide instructions on drying your teddy coat. Some coats may be suitable for tumble drying on a low heat setting, while others should be air-dried only. Following these instructions is crucial to prevent damage to the coat's fabric and maintaining its softness and shape.

In summary, checking the tag for specific cleaning instructions is a vital step in washing your teddy coat. By understanding the symbols and guidelines provided, you can make informed decisions about the washing and drying process. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution to avoid any potential damage to your beloved teddy coat!

Machine washing

Machine-washing a teddy coat requires some care, but it can be done. Firstly, check the label for any instructions. If the coat has non-removable leather or fur attachments, heavy structuring or panelling, or if it contains real fur or hide, it's best to avoid machine-washing. If your coat has any of these features, consider hand-washing or spot-treating instead.

Assuming your teddy coat is suitable for machine-washing, there are several steps you can take to ensure it stays in good condition:

• Use a gentle cycle with cold water. Teddy coats are often made from synthetic fibres, so a delicate or hand-wash setting with a low spin speed will help prevent damage and shrinkage.
• Use a mild or gentle detergent. Wool detergent or baby detergent is ideal. Avoid using too much, as this can leave residue on your coat.
• Don't overstuff your washing machine. This will help prevent your coat from becoming misshapen or stretched out.
• Avoid tumble drying. Teddy coats should be dried flat or hung up to air dry. If you must use a tumble dryer, ensure it is on a no-heat setting.
• Brush your coat after washing. Use a soft-bristled brush or a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle and smooth the fibres.

If you're unsure about machine-washing your teddy coat, you can always hand-wash it instead. Hand-washing is gentler on the fabric and reduces the risk of damage.

Hand washing

Firstly, check the tag on your teddy coat for specific cleaning instructions. The tag should tell you if the coat needs to be washed alone, if colours will run, or if it should be washed with similarly-coloured items.

Next, prepare a sink, tub, or large container with cool water and a mild detergent, such as Woolite or Studio by Tide. Use around 1-2 teaspoons of detergent for every sink-full of water.

If your teddy coat is particularly dirty, you may want to submerge it completely in the water and detergent solution. Swish the coat through the water for 10-15 minutes, being careful not to wring or excessively agitate the coat. If your coat is only lightly soiled, you can try spot cleaning instead. Use a mild detergent on the areas that need cleaning and gently rub the soap in with your fingers.

Once you have finished cleaning your coat, lift it out of the water and gently squeeze out as much soapy water as possible. Drain the container and refill it with clean water. Rinse the coat until no suds remain, then squeeze out excess water and lay the coat on a drying rack or hang it from a padded hanger. Keep the coat out of direct sunlight and heat, and avoid using a tumble dryer, as the heat can melt the synthetic fibres. It may take up to 48 hours for the coat to dry completely.

Once dry, use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush any matted sections of fur and lift the fibres. You can also use a wide-toothed comb to loosen stubborn fur. To smooth the fibres, mix 1 teaspoon of hair conditioner with 2 cups of warm water in a spray bottle and spritz the coat. Use a soft-bristled brush to untangle the fur, then wipe with a clean, damp cloth and air-dry.

Drying

Remove Excess Water

First, shake out the coat to fluff the faux fur and remove any excess water on the surface. Then, lay the coat on a thick towel and roll it up gently to absorb any remaining water. It is important to be gentle during this process to avoid damaging the coat.

Reshape the Coat

After removing excess water, carefully reshape the coat. Pull it gently back into its original shape and dimensions. This step is crucial to ensure the coat doesn't become misshapen as it dries.

Air-Dry

Never use an electric dryer, even on a no-heat setting. The friction caused by the coat tumbling in the dryer can create enough heat to damage the synthetic fibres. Always air-dry your teddy coat. Choose a well-ventilated area, and consider placing it outside or using a fan to speed up the drying process. Hang the coat on a padded or plastic hanger, or lay it flat. Ensure all excess water has been removed before hanging to prevent the coat from stretching out of shape.

Fluff the Fur

To help the coat dry and maintain its fluffy texture, brush the faux fur with a pet care brush that has widely spaced metal bristles, also known as a slicker brush. Gently brush and fluff the coat, being careful not to damage the backing fabric.

Dry Cleaning Option

If you are unsure about drying your teddy coat at home, consider taking it to a trusted dry cleaner. They have the expertise and equipment to effectively clean and dry your coat without causing any damage.

Additional Tips

• Keep the coat away from direct sunlight and heat while drying.
• It may take up to 48 hours for the coat to dry completely.
• Make sure the coat is entirely dry before wearing, storing, or hanging it in your closet.

Dry cleaning

Firstly, check the tag on your teddy coat. The tag will give you specific cleaning instructions and guidelines that you should follow. The tag will tell you if the coat needs to be washed separately, if colours will run, or if it should be washed with similar-coloured items. It may also include standardised symbols that indicate how the coat should be cared for.

Next, find a reputable dry cleaner that you trust and that has experience with delicate fabrics. It is important to choose a dry cleaner that has knowledge of different fabrics and access to the right supplies to effectively clean your teddy coat.

When you drop off your coat, point out any stains or particularly dirty areas that may need special attention. Ask the dry cleaner for their advice on the best way to clean your coat, and make sure they are aware that it is a teddy coat.

Finally, once you have picked up your coat from the dry cleaner, hang it up in your closet or wardrobe. Make sure the coat is completely dry before storing it and that it has plenty of space for air circulation to prevent the fibres from being crushed.

Frequently asked questions