It may be standard form for men to not look after their clothes, but without knowing how to clean a trucker jacket, you’ll risk looking a little rusty, dusty, and disheveled.
And none of us want that, do we?
Well, perhaps you do. Within reason. A little bit of wear can give charm and character to your jacket over time, as it shows that you’re not afraid to live a little.
But there’s no need to go overboard. A touch of fading is one thing, but a grimy or dirty stain is another. And the latter, unfortunately, we cannot tolerate.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how to clean a trucker jacket. We’ll talk general, and we’ll talk specific. After reading this, our hope is that you’ll be able to maintain your jacket exactly the way you want it for years, if not decades, to come.
What Not To Do
First thing’s first: how don’t you clean a trucker jacket?
It may seem like a quick and convenient solution, but machine washing your trucker jacket can actually do more harm than good.
Excessively hot water can easily cause shrinking and fading. Harsh chemicals can cause the fabric to break down and fade, leading to a worn-out jacket that no longer retains its shape.
Buttons, zippers, and other hardware on the jacket are not meant to withstand the pressure of a washing machine, and could potentially break or become damaged during the wash cycle.
Washing with harsh detergents, too, can cause problems. These strong chemicals can strip away protective coatings on the fabric, causing it to become more susceptible to rips and tears.
It's also important to note that trucker jackets should not be put in a dryer, as the high heat can shrink and ruin the fabric. Additionally, avoid using bleach on trucker jackets as it can weaken and discolor the fabric.
Not cleaning your jacket at all, or cleaning it infrequently, is more likely to lead to problems down the track. This is because when you do come to do a clean, you’ll have to be more aggressive with the fabric since any stains will be more deeply set in.
How To Clean Your Trucker Jacket
There are a few things to keep in mind when cleaning your trucker jacket. As you might expect, most of these tips are the opposite of what you’ve read above.
To keep your trucker jacket looking its best for as long as possible, the best practice is to stick to spot-cleaning any stains where possible. Avoiding the turbulence of the washing machine whenever you can will do wonders. Spot cleaning can be achieved with a damp cloth and gentle soap.
Cleaning your jacket regularly will also keep your trucker jacket looking fresh and in good condition.
When your trucker jacket does need a good thorough wash, consider taking it to a professional dry cleaner. If you want to wash it yourself in the machine, put it on a gentle cycle, using cold water and a mild or natural detergent. Turn the jeans inside out, to protect the outer surface from excessive agitation, before washing them in cold water with similar colors.
For extra tough stains, gently rub a small amount of stain remover or spot-treating with vinegar or baking soda before washing. Always try to avoid using harsh chemicals, like bleach or fabric softener, as they can break down the fibers.
When it comes to drying, air drying or laying your trucker jacket flat is the best option. This will preserve the jacket's shape, quality, and integrity, as well as ensure that the fabric doesn’t shrink or become damaged unnecessarily.
If you must use a dryer, make sure to set it on low heat and remove the jeans before they are completely dry to avoid further shrinking.
Some Final Notes On Washing
If you’re ever in doubt about how to clean a trucker jacket, it’s simple: check the tag for specific instructions from the manufacturer. Denim is often made with a mixture of cotton and synthetic fibers, which may require different laundering methods.
In cases where you don’t have access to the tag anymore (let’s be honest, we can understand the satisfaction of cutting off the tag as soon as you buy), you can always check our website for washing instructions or get in touch with us. We’ll be happy to help out.
Stay Clean, Stay Cool
Denim clothes, like jeans and jackets, may seem durable enough to withstand any washing method. However, improper washing can lead to fading, shrinking, and overall deterioration of the fabric.
When it comes to washing and drying, be gentle with your trucker jacket. Avoid harsh chemicals, avoid turbulent or hot wash cycles, and hang dry your jacket in the old-school manner wherever possible.
If you know how to clean a trucker jacket, you’ll be able to keep it looking and feeling great for years to come.
FAQs
What Are The Basics I Need To Know To Wash Denim Jackets?
The denim jacket, often referred to as a "jean jacket," has become a wardrobe staple for many individuals. However, proper care must be taken in order to maintain its appearance and longevity.
Wash your denim jacket inside out, on the gentle cycle with cold water. Do not put it in the dryer; instead, hang it or lay it flat to air dry. If necessary, consider having your denim jacket dry cleaned instead of washing it at home to prevent shrinkage and maintain fit.
When buying new, wash raw denim at least once before wearing to eliminate excess dye transfer onto other clothing items.
Should I Wash My Denim Jacket Separately?
When it comes to washing denim, the best practice is to avoid putting your denim jacket in with other clothing items and instead wash it separately. This will prevent any possible color bleeding onto other garments and ensure that your jacket retains its shape and fit.
Generally speaking, you can wash multiple denim garments together without a problem.
If you have any other questions about how to clean a trucker jacket, get in touch with our team from Trucker Jackets today.