A Cleaner World Blog
Purchasing and Caring for Your Winter Coat
Last year for Christmas I asked for a puffy coat. You know, one of those coats that looks like it is quilted and is filled with either down or synthetic fibers. I told my mom to try it on, and if she was hot wearing it, then it was perfect for me. I also asked her to purchase a size larger than what I normally wear because it was going to be my everyday coat, and I would wear it with sweatshirts and heavy sweaters.
I love my puffy coat. It kept me warm last winter, which is no simple task, and I can wear it with all kinds of bulky stuff. Lucky me; I don’t have to purchase a new everyday coat this year thanks to my puffy coat. But what about you? If you need a new winter coat, here are some tips to help.
Purchasing a Winter Coat
- Fit and Fabric
I am not sure which one of these is most important, so I am putting them both at number one. If the coat does not fit properly, it will be uncomfortable, and you will not want to wear it. When trying on coats, make sure to leave room for layering. If ordering online, take your measurements and then compare them to the guide on the retailer’s website. When it comes to fabric, wool or nylon are two terrific choices. Wool is moisture-resistant and durable, but it can be expensive. Nylon, provided it is insulated with down or wool, can protect you from extremely cold, windy conditions. - Quality
If shopping at a store, check for zippers that move up and down freely, tightly sewn on buttons, no loose threads, no down or feathers poking through the fabric, and that all seams are sealed. If it is not well made, it will not stand the test of time. Before purchasing a coat online, check their return policy. If you do purchase it online, examine it carefully as soon as it arrives. That way, if it doesn’t measure up, you have plenty of time to return it. - Length
As you choose the length of your coat, think about what you will be wearing with it and the climate you live in. If you wear dresses and skirts regularly, a short coat may not provide the protection you need. Likewise, a really long coat could pick up dirt and debris if you live in an area that receives lots of snow and ice. - Color
It mostly comes down to what you like, but keep in mind that white and lighter color coats are harder to keep clean.
Once You Choose Your Coat, We Recommend the Following Care Tips
- Stains and Spills
As with any garment, address stains and spills immediately. The longer a spill sits on your coat, the more difficult it is to remove. - Mold and Mildew Issues
Never put your coat away while it is still wet. Doing so could lead to mold and mildew issues. - Pockets
Empty the pockets before putting it away to keep them from sagging. - Quality Hanger
Hang your coat on a good quality hanger. Most winter coats are heavy and need proper support to keep their shape. - Clean
Clean your coat twice a year. Once midway through the season, especially if it has seen lots of use, and again before storing it away. Moths are attracted to spills, perspiration, skin cells, and perfume, so cleaning it before storing will ensure it is ready for next winter.
If your winter coat needs some TLC, just drop it off at one of our convenient locations.
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