Can you wash a Carhartt jacket? The answer is yes, but it requires some care and attention. Carhartt jackets are made to last but can get dirty, stained, or smelly over time. Washing them properly can help maintain their quality and extend their lifespan.
Carhartt jackets are a staple for anyone who needs reliable and durable outerwear. Carhartt has covered whether you work outside on a construction site or need a jacket to keep up with your active lifestyle.
However, with all these jackets’ wear and tear, they can quickly become dirty and stained. That’s why knowing how to properly clean and care for your Carhartt jacket is important to ensure it lasts for years.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to properly wash your Carhartt jacket so you can keep it looking great and performing at its best.
Key Takeaways:
- Carhartt jackets can be washed, but they require special care.
- Understanding the fabric composition of Carhartt jackets is important for washing them properly.
- Following general washing guidelines, preparing the jacket before washing, and properly drying and caring for it afterward can help maintain its quality and extend its lifespan.
Table of Contents
What Is Carhartt Jacket?
Carhartt Men’s Jacket (See at Amazon)
Carhartt jackets are popular among people who work physically demanding jobs, such as construction workers, mechanics, and farmers. These jackets are known for their durability, functionality, and ruggedness.
They are made from high-quality materials, such as cotton duck, a tightly woven fabric resistant to abrasion and tears.
Carhartt jackets come in various styles, such as chore coats, hooded, and insulated jackets. Some jackets are designed for specific uses, such as flame-resistant jackets for welding and electrical work and rain jackets for wet weather conditions.
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How To Wash Carhartt Jacket?
When washing your Carhartt jacket, you should follow a few general guidelines to ensure that your jacket stays in good condition for as long as possible. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Check the care label: Before washing your Carhartt jacket, check the care label to see any specific instructions or recommendations for washing.
- Pre-treat stains: If there are any stains on the jacket, pre-treat them before washing. Apply a small amount of stain remover to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Zip up the jacket: Before washing, zip up the jacket to prevent damage to the zipper or the fabric.
- Use a gentle detergent: Use a gentle detergent suitable for washing clothes made of heavy-duty fabrics. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric.
- Wash in cold water: Wash the jacket in cold water to prevent shrinkage and damage to the fabric.
- Use a gentle cycle: Use a gentle cycle on your washing machine to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Hang to dry: After washing, hang the jacket to dry. Avoid using a dryer, as it can shrink the fabric and damage the jacket.
- Touch up with an iron: Touch the jacket on a low heat setting.
How To Hand Washing Carhatt Jacket
If you prefer to hand wash your Carhartt jacket, follow these steps:
- Fill a sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Turn your jacket inside out to protect the outer layer from damage during the wash cycle.
- Place your jacket in the water and gently agitate it to distribute the detergent.
- Let your jacket soak for 15-20 minutes, drain the water, and rinse your jacket thoroughly with cool water.
- Gently squeeze out excess water, but do not wring or twist your jacket, as this can damage the fabric.
- Hang your jacket to air dry or lay it flat on a clean towel to dry.
No matter your chosen method, avoiding using bleach, fabric softener, or starch on your Carhartt jacket is important. These products can damage the fabric and reduce the lifespan of your jacket.
Related: Can you wash ties?
How To Dry A Carhartt Jacket
After washing your Carhartt jacket, it’s important to dry it properly to prevent damage and shrinkage. Here are some tips on how to dry your Carhartt jacket:
Tumble Dry on Low Heat
The best way to dry your Carhartt jacket is to tumble dry it on low heat. This will help prevent shrinkage and damage to the fabric. Remove the jacket from the dryer as soon as it’s dry to prevent over-drying.
Air Dry
If you prefer air-drying your clothes, you can hang the jacket up on a clothesline or drying rack, but turn it inside out first. This will help prevent fading and damage to the outer layer of the fabric.
Do Not Use High Heat
Using high heat to dry your Carhartt jacket can cause damage and shrinkage. Make sure to use the appropriate heat settings when drying your jacket.
Do Not Iron
Ironing your Carhartt jacket can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage. If you need to remove wrinkles, use a steamer or hang the jacket in a steamy bathroom to help release the wrinkles.
Do Not Dry Clean
Dry cleaning your Carhartt jacket can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage. Stick to washing and drying your jacket at home to keep it in good condition.
Related: Can you wash a puffer jacket?
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Washing Carhartt Jacket
When washing your Carhartt jacket, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid to ensure that your jacket stays in good condition. Here are some of the most important mistakes to keep in mind:
Using Bleach or Fabric Softener
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when washing your Carhartt jacket is using bleach or fabric softener. These products can damage the fabric and cause it to wear out more quickly. Instead, use a mild detergent free of bleach and fabric softener.
Using Hot Water
Another common mistake is using hot water to wash your jacket. Hot water can cause the fabric to shrink and lose its shape. Instead, use warm or cold water to wash your jacket.
Overloading the Washing Machine
Overloading the washing machine is another mistake many people make when washing their Carhartt jackets. Overloading the machine can cause the fabric to become tangled and can prevent the jacket from getting clean. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper load size.
Not Checking the Care Label
Finally, not checking the care label is a mistake that can damage your jacket. The care label will provide important information about washing and caring for your jacket. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that your jacket stays in good condition.
Can You Wash A Carhartt Jacket? Final Thoughts
To wrap up, yes, you can wash Carhartt jackets, and they should be taken carelessly to maintain their quality and durability. Following the care label instructions is important, and using a gentle detergent, cold water, and a gentle cycle when washing.
Additionally, pre-treating any stains and hanging the jacket to dry can help prevent damage to the fabric. By taking these steps, you can keep your Carhartt jacket clean and in good condition for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Carhartt jackets shrink when washed?
Yes, Carhartt jackets can shrink when washed if they are not washed properly. Following the care label instructions is important, and using a gentle detergent, cold water, and a gentle cycle when washing to prevent shrinkage. Additionally, avoid using a dryer as it can shrink the fabric and damage the jacket.
Are Carhartt jackets dry clean only?
Not all Carhartt jackets are dry clean only. Before washing your Carhartt jacket, it is important to check the care label to see if there are any specific instructions or recommendations for washing. Some Carhartt jackets may be machine washable, while others require dry cleaning.
What are the best practices for washing a Carhartt hoodie?
When washing a Carhartt hoodie, it is best to turn it inside out to protect the outer layer of the fabric. You should also zip up zippers and button any buttons to prevent them from snagging on other items in the wash. Use a mild and gentle-based detergent, and avoid using bleach. Wash the hoodie in warm water and tumble dry on medium heat.
What is the best way to wash a vintage Carhartt jacket?
When washing a vintage Carhartt jacket, it is important to be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric. It is recommended to hand wash the jacket in cold water with a mild detergent. You can then hang the jacket to dry. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric.
How can you fade a Carhartt jacket without ruining it?
To fade a Carhartt jacket without ruining it, wash it in hot water with a small amount of bleach. However, this method can be risky and may damage the fabric. A safer method is to wear the jacket frequently and wash it regularly. Over time, the fabric will naturally fade and develop a worn-in look.
Can Carhartt bibs be safely washed in a washing machine?
Yes, Carhartt bibs can be safely washed in a washing machine. It is recommended to wash them in warm water without bleach and to use a mild and gentle-based detergent. You can then tumble dry the bibs on medium heat. It is also recommended to turn the bibs inside out to protect the outer layer of the fabric.
