How to wash your puffer jacket without losing the puff

They’re currently the height of fashion, and what could be better in our cold and often miserable winters than a lovely, light, down-filled jacket to keep you warm and cosy? If you don’t already have one, there’s a good chance you will be out to buy one once the cold sets in (especially for those in our more southern states!). In fact, you can’t walk out your door these days without seeing someone looking gloriously warm and comfortable in a puffer. They’re sold basically everywhere, for different prices, and there’s one for everyone. 

But they come with one catch. How on earth are you supposed to get them clean without making the down go all clumpy and lumpy?

They’re an everyday wear item, so dry cleaning is expensive, inconvenient, and not ideal. There has to be a better way to do it at less expense and effort. 

Luckily, the answer is actually very simple. All you’ll need to wash your puffer jacket yourself at home, without ruining the spread of the down is tennis balls! 

It sounds a bit random, but it really works. After you put your jacket through the wash on a delicate cycle, pop it into the tumble dryer with a couple of tennis balls. They will help to stop clumping and ensure your jacket comes out nice and, well, puffy! 

This method also works well with other down items like pillows and doonas, and you can even get specialised dryer balls (good if the slightly rubbery smell bothers you, although this can simply be aired out). 

Do you have any other great cleaning hacks you swear by?