Gear Chick: Washing Your Fleece
What is the best way to wash my fleece so that I get longer use out of it?
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Question:
What is the best way to wash my fleece so that I get longer use out of it?
Submitted by – Scott, Puyallup, WA
Answer:
Unless you torch it in the campfire, fleece is pretty indestructible, but I do have a few tips for keeping it as fluffy as possible. First, don’t over-wash it. When it’s good and grimy, and ready for a bath, use cold water and a mild soap (no bleach). Make sure all the zippers are zipped and the Velcro patches battened down (so there’s no extra abrasion going on. Some folks like to pull their fleece clothes inside out before washing. I say, sure, why not? Let it air dry. Excess heat is not good for polyester–and never dry-clean a fleece. Pilling will eventually happen on a well-worn fleece, but pilling is harmless. And if it really bugs you, use a cheap disposable razor to remove the offending fuzz balls.