DIY Cleaning Methods for Jackets

How to Clean Jackets with Mild Detergent and Cold Water

• Start by checking the care label. Every jacket is a little different, so always peek at the tag for any “do nots” before you get started. If it says “dry clean only,” this method isn’t for you.

 

• Mix your solution. In a clean bowl or bucket, combine a small amount of mild detergent (think: the kind made for delicates or baby clothes) with cold water. “Mild” means it’s gentle and doesn’t have bleach, brighteners, or heavy-duty stain fighters.

 

• Spot test first. Dab a bit of your solution on a hidden area of the jacket. Wait a few minutes to make sure it doesn’t cause any fading or weirdness. If it looks good, you’re clear to proceed.

 

• Gently scrub the jacket. Dip a soft brush (like a clean toothbrush) or a soft cloth into your soapy water. Gently work on any dirty spots or areas that need freshening up. Don’t go wild—scrubbing too hard can rough up the fabric or leave marks.

 

• Rinse thoroughly. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any detergent residue. It’s important to get all the soap out, or you might end up with stiff patches or streaks once the jacket dries.

 

• Air dry only. Lay the jacket flat on a clean towel or hang it up in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This helps the jacket keep its shape and prevents shrinking or warping.

 

• Fluff it up. Once dry, give the jacket a gentle shake or use your hands to smooth out any wrinkles. If it’s a puffy jacket, a few gentle squeezes can help redistribute the filling.

How to Use Lemon Juice and Salt to Clean Stains on Jackets

• Gather your supplies: You’ll need fresh lemon juice (bottled works in a pinch), regular table salt, a small bowl, a soft brush (like an old toothbrush), a clean damp cloth, and a spot to air dry your jacket.

 

• Mix your cleaning paste: In your bowl, combine enough lemon juice and salt to make a thick, spreadable paste. Aim for a consistency similar to toothpaste—thick enough to stay put, but not so dry it crumbles.

 

• Test a hidden spot first: Before you go all in, dab a bit of the paste on an inside seam or hem. Wait 10 minutes, then wipe it off and check for any color change or fabric reaction. Some jacket materials (especially delicate or brightly dyed ones) can react to acids like lemon juice.

 

• Apply the paste to the stain: Use your fingers or the brush to gently spread the paste over the stained area. Don’t rub it in too hard—just enough to cover the spot.

 

• Let it sit: Give the paste about 15 minutes to do its thing. This gives the lemon juice time to help break down the stain and the salt to act as a gentle abrasive.

 

• Gently scrub: Using your soft brush, lightly work the paste into the stain with small, circular motions. Be gentle, especially on delicate fabrics, to avoid damaging the fibers.

 

• Wipe away the paste: Take your clean, damp cloth and carefully wipe off all the paste. You may need to rinse the cloth and repeat a few times to get rid of any salty residue.

 

• Air dry: Hang your jacket somewhere with good airflow and let it dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight, which can sometimes cause fading, especially on darker fabrics.

• Extra tip: If the stain is stubborn, you can repeat the process, but always check the fabric’s reaction first. Some materials don’t love repeated exposure to acidic solutions.