Knowing how to wash a puffer jacket properly is essential for maintaining its warmth and structure. A puffer jacket gets worn almost every day once the cold arrives, so sooner or later it needs a wash. The good news is that most puffer jackets can be washed at home. The catch is doing it without flattening the filling or leaving it in clumps. This guide covers washing by machine and by hand, drying it so it stays puffy, how a puffer differs from a down jacket, and five easy ways to wear one this winter.
Check the care label first
Every jacket is different, and the care label on the inside seam is the rule to follow. Even within one store, the instructions vary. Two examples from our puffer coats:
- The Plus Size Quilted Hooded Puffer Jacket says hand wash cold and do not tumble dry.
- The Zip Up Puffer Vest Coat with Pockets says machine wash cold and tumble dry low.
Look for three things on the label: whether the jacket can go in the machine, the water temperature, and whether it can go in the dryer. If the label says dry clean only, it needs to be laundered professionally. The steps below are general advice for jackets that can be washed at home.
How to wash a puffer jacket in the washing machine
- Empty the pockets and close every zipper, snap, and button so nothing catches.
- Turn the jacket inside out to protect the outer fabric.
- Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water, unless the label says otherwise. A front-loading machine is kinder to a puffer than a top-loader with a center agitator.
- Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Too much soap is hard to rinse out of the filling. Skip fabric softener and bleach.
- Add an extra rinse to ensure no detergent remains.
- Wash it alone or with one or two soft items, so the jacket has room to move.
How to wash a puffer jacket by hand
Hand washing is the gentlest option, and the only one for jackets marked hand wash.
- Fill a tub or large sink with cold water and a little mild detergent.
- Close all zippers and snaps, turn the jacket inside out, and push it under the water.
- Gently squeeze the water through the jacket for a few minutes. Work a little extra on the cuffs and collar, where dirt collects.
- Drain the soapy water and rinse in clean cold water until no more suds appear.
- Press the water out by rolling the jacket in a towel. Never wring or twist it, since that pushes the filling into lumps.
How to dry it so it stays puffy
Drying is where most puffers lose their shape, so take your time.
- If the label allows the dryer: use the lowest heat setting and add two or three clean dryer balls or tennis balls. They knock the filling loose as the jacket tumbles. Take it out every 20 to 30 minutes to shake it and break up any clumps with your hands.
- If the label says do not tumble dry: lay the jacket flat on a drying rack or a towel, away from direct heat. Turn it and fluff the panels by hand a few times while it dries.
- Make sure it is completely dry before you hang it up or put it away. Filling that stays damp can start to smell.
Shop the Quilted Lightweight Snap Down Puffer Jacket
Lighter quilted styles, like the Quilted Lightweight Snap Down Puffer Jacket, have thinner filling and usually dry faster than a thick winter puffer.
Puffer jacket vs down jacket: what's the difference?
"Puffer" describes the look: a jacket sewn into quilted panels, each filled with insulation. "Down" describes the filling: soft feathers from ducks or geese. So a down jacket is one kind of puffer, but many puffers are filled with synthetic insulation such as polyester instead.
- Synthetic filling is usually easier to wash at home, dries faster, and retains some warmth when it gets damp.
- Down filling is very light for its warmth, but it requires more care when washing, often with a special down detergent, and takes longer to dry.
The material and filling are listed on every product page, so check there before you buy and before you wash.
5 ways to style a puffer jacket
1. Short puffer with high-rise jeans
A puffer that ends at the waist looks best with high-rise jeans, helping to keep your legs looking long. The Two-Tone Zip-Up Puffer Jacket in army green with a brown yoke works well with light-wash denim and a simple white top.
Shop the Two-Tone Zip-Up Puffer Jacket
2. Puffer vest over a long-sleeve top or knit
A puffer vest keeps your core warm and leaves your arms free. Wear the Zip Up Puffer Vest Coat with Pockets over a fitted long-sleeve top or a thin knit, with leggings or straight jeans. More styles can be found in our puffer vests.
Shop the Zip Up Puffer Vest Coat with Pockets
3. Cinched at the waist
A drawstring waist gives a puffer shape, making it look less bulky. The Drawstring Waist Zip-Up Puffer Jacket in light green can be cinched over jeans or worn over a knit dress with tall boots.
Shop the Drawstring Waist Zip-Up Puffer Jacket
4. All black
An all-black puffer over black leggings or jeans and a black top is a simple yet chic winter outfit. The Plus Size Quilted Hooded Puffer Jacket comes in black, beige, white, red, khaki, and coffee, in sizes M to 3XL. Add one light accessory, like a cream scarf or bag, to prevent the look from feeling flat.
5. Color-block and mixed textures
For those who want a puffer that stands out, choosing one with two colors or textures can be effective. The Color-Block Sherpa and Quilted Puffer Outerwear pairs black diamond quilting with cream sherpa. Pair it with a simple black outfit for balance.
Shop the Color-Block Sherpa and Quilted Puffer Outerwear
Shop the look
By checking the care label, washing gently, drying slowly, and fluffing often, your puffer will stay warm and full for many winters. Browse all puffer coats and puffer vests to find your next one.
Still deciding which style to buy? Read our guide How to Choose a Women's Puffer Jacket for help with length, warmth, and fit.
For a quick overview, browse our edit of puffer jackets and winter coats, sorted into jackets, vests, and coats.
Delivery usually takes 9 to 17 business days, so order before the cold really sets in. Free standard shipping is available on eligible orders over US$60. Returns are accepted within 7 days in the US and 14 days in other countries on eligible items, as described in our Refund policy.