To properly wash a Champion jacket, always use cold water with mild soap on a gentle cycle.
Here's a more detailed guide to ensure your Champion jacket stays in great condition:
1. Preparation is Key:
- Check the Label: Always, always, read the care label on your jacket. This provides the manufacturer's specific instructions, which are the most reliable.
- Empty Pockets: Remove all items from the pockets.
- Close Zippers and Buttons: Fasten any zippers and buttons to prevent snagging or damage during the wash.
- Turn Inside Out: Turning the jacket inside out helps protect the outer fabric from abrasion and fading.
2. Washing Instructions:
- Cold Water: Use cold water to prevent shrinking and color fading.
- Mild Detergent: Choose a gentle, mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Gentle Cycle: Select the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine to minimize stress on the fabric and stitching.
- Avoid Overloading: Don't overload the washing machine. This ensures the jacket has enough room to move and get properly cleaned.
3. Drying Instructions:
- Air Dry Preferred: The best way to dry a Champion jacket is to air dry it. Hang it on a hanger or lay it flat in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Tumble Dry Low (if necessary): If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage the fabric. It's best to only tumble dry if the care label explicitly allows it. Even then, take it out while it's still slightly damp to air dry completely.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade colors, so dry the jacket in the shade.
4. Special Considerations:
- Stains: Treat any stains before washing. Use a stain remover appropriate for the fabric, following the product's instructions carefully.
- Fleece-Lined Jackets: For fleece-lined Champion jackets, pay extra attention to avoid matting the fleece. Air drying is especially important for these.
- Embellishments (Logos, Patches): If your jacket has embroidered logos or patches, be particularly careful to protect them during washing. Turning the jacket inside out is crucial.
Summary:
Washing your Champion jacket correctly involves using cold water, mild detergent, and a gentle cycle. Air drying is the safest option, but tumble drying on low heat may be acceptable if the care label permits. Always check the care label for the most accurate instructions.
