Nikwax Down Wash Direct is a gentle cleaner formulated for down filled gear. Nikwax states it revives loft, so the down traps air again, and helps restore the water repellent finish on the outer fabric. This is the 300 ml bottle.

What it's for

Washing down jackets, vests, sleeping bags and other down filled items. Dirt and body oils make down clump and lose loft, and a clean jacket comes out noticeably puffier.

How it works

Why not detergent: Down Wash Direct is not a household detergent. Nikwax explains that household detergents can leave residues that attract water, which works against a water repellent finish.

Setup and installation

• Machine: Nikwax advises a washing machine without a center agitator
• Water temperature: follow the care label; Nikwax calls cold the safest choice
• After the wash: rinse, spin, then spin again to pull out as much water as you can before drying
• Hand wash: use for items labeled hand wash only
• Dose: follow the amounts printed on the bottle

Care and service

• Drying: tumble dry with one or more tennis balls to break up clumps, and keep restarting the dryer until the down is fully dry and free of lumps. Check the care label first.
• Air drying: possible but much slower; massage the clumps apart from time to time.

Specs

• Size: 300 ml