7. Coat versus jacket
Jackets, seldom touching bare skin, should be washed in cold water no more than once every three months. Tossing tennis balls into the machine can stop down and feathers from clumping, keeping the jacket’s shape intact.
Coats demand special handling, especially for stains. Always review the care label for fabric and cleaning details. Many coats, particularly delicate ones, are best left to professional cleaners to prevent damage.