If there’s one item our customers (and the Rydale team!) universally love, it’s a fleece jacket. In fact, we think they’re one of our most versatile pieces, and lots of you own multiple designs and in multiple colours. Whether you’re a fan of neutrals or love adding a pop of colour to an outfit, a fleece jacket is a great option for an outer layer in the summer, and a perfect middle layer when it’s freezing outside.
However, it’s important to look after your fleeces properly, which is where our guide comes in. Allow us to explain how to wash a fleece jacket to keep it super soft and cosy.
What is Fleece and Why is it the Perfect Material for Your Outerwear?
Back in the day, fleece was made with sheep’s wool due to its natural thermal properties. However, nowadays, it’s made with synthetic fibres (usually polyester), but it still mimics the softness and thermal performance of natural wool.
Polyester is a much lighter material than wool, making it a good material for outdoor clothing, whether you prefer a waistcoat style, or a long-sleeved version. They’ve got the ability to be breathable when it’s warm outside, as well as brilliantly insulating when cold. The fabric also repels water and dries quickly, making it a good material for days when the forecast looks iffy!
How to Wash a Fleece Jacket in Five Steps
Learning how to wash a fleece jacket can be the difference between buying a new one yearly and keeping your favourite style in your wardrobe rotation for years to come. So, here are the five best steps to keep your fleeces looking fresh and feeling super soft.
1. Read the Care Label First
Some are machine washable, some are dry clean only, and some you can wash at 30 or 40 (almost all Rydale fleeces do best in the washing machine). The care label will also tell you whether it can be tumble-dried or ironed. If there isn’t one, assume it’s machine washable on a cool wash at 30.
2. Brush off Any Debris
Before you clean it with water, it’s a good idea to brush off any debris on the outside of the fleece. Only use stain remover if absolutely necessary, as the heavy chemicals can fade the fleece fabric.
3. Turn Inside Out Before Washing
Make sure the pockets are empty and zip them all up before turning inside out. Stick inside a washbag if washing with other items in the machine.
4. Use a Light Detergent
This uses fewer chemicals to wash your fleece effectively while maintaining its soft handfeel.
5. Allow to Dry Naturally
Tumble drying a fleece can lead to shrinkage or pilling. Instead, put it out on a washing line or hang it up to dry indoors. If hanging your fleece up, make sure you use a hanger with wider arms so it doesn’t leave you with saggy shoulders.
Five Common Mistakes When Washing Fleece Jackets
You wouldn’t think so, but there are a few common mistakes that people make when it comes to washing fleeces. Let’s dive in so you don’t do the same!
Using Fabric Softener
Fabric softener is generally ‘bad’ for all clothing, but it can coat your fleece and make it less breathable over time. Sure, it might smell nice, but a crispy fleece is less than desirable.
Washing Too Often
The easiest way to increase the longevity of clothing is to wash it less. Depending on how much you wear an item, it might not need washing as regularly as you think. Fleece jackets only need washing when they're dirty and that could be weekly or monthly – use your own judgement.
Putting Fleeces in the Tumble Dryer
Despite modern fleeces having synthetic fibers, the additional heat and pressure of a tumble dryer can shrink the fleece, therefore reducing its longevity. It may also affect the pile of the fleece, making it bobbly and causing it to mat.
Washing at a High Temperature
Again, a high temperature will more than likely shrink your fleece jacket, even if you stretch it after the cycle has finished. Colder temperatures are much better for the polyester blend fabric.
Washing with Other Coloured Items
If you can, wash your fleece jacket in the washing machine on its own or with items of a very similar colour. The newer a piece of clothing, the more likely it is that the dye will run and potentially affect the colour of your fleece.
Here at Rydale, our men’s and women’s fleece jackets are designed to be practical, versatile, and easy to care for, making them a staple you’ll reach for year after year.
From timeless neutral shades to brighter blues and reds, there’s a style to suit every wardrobe and every season. If you’re ready to add another cosy layer to your collection, explore our men’s fleece jackets and women’s fleece jackets to find your next favourite.
