Heated jackets and vests have electrical components inside, along with battery packs, but that does not mean that you cannot wash them. In fact, almost all heated vests and jackets can be hand-washed, and many can be machine-washed.
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There are only a few steps to go through to ensure that your heated jacket or vest looks just like new, and you will find that it is easier than you think.
Our step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process, but they are only a general guide, so always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning your heated vest or jacket.
Before Washing
- If you can, remove the battery before washing your heated vest or jacket. If you cannot remove the battery, do no machine wash the clothing or submerge it in water unless the care instructions say that you can.
- Once the battery is removed, tuck in any cables and zip up any zippers. You do not want anything to get caught, especially if you are machine washing the jacket or vest.
- Check the care instructions for the heated jacket or vest to discover if there are any other specific pre-wash instructions.
Pre-Wash Stain Removal
If your item of clothing has any stains, you should tackle them first before washing. Locate the stains and use a cleaning formula to treat the stains individually.
We recommend testing a small amount of detergent on a hidden area to make sure that you are not going to damage the material. Do not use bleach unless the care instructions say that you can.
Mix up a small amount of detergent with warm water, and apply the mixture to the stain, working it in with a cloth or soft brush. Let the detergent sit there for 5-10 minutes, and then rinse the stain with cold water.
Washing
If the care instructions say that you can machine wash your jacket or vest, then go ahead and do so, making sure to use a delicate cycle and cold or lukewarm water. Use a mild or natural detergent, and stay away from bleach or fabric softener.
If you cannot machine wash the heated jacket or vest, or you do not want to, then you will need to hand wash it. Fill a bathtub (or another large tub) with warm water and some mild/natural detergent. Submerge the jacket and work your way over it with a cloth or soft brush. When you are done, rinse the jacket with cold water and hang it to dry. Never wring out the jacket as you could bend and damage the heating elements.
Drying
Unless the care instructions say that you can dry your jacket in the dryer, you should always hang your jacket to dry. Leave the heated jacket or vest in a warm and ventilated area, and do not leave it on or close to any hot surfaces like radiators.
Pro Tips
- Always spot clean your jacket or vest, and sometimes a spot clean can be enough.
- Hand washing is preferred over machine washing.
- Do not use a dryer, and hang your jacket or vest to dry.
- Do not iron a heated vest or jacket.
- Do not dry clean your heated clothing.
- Never wring out a heated vest or jacket.
- Remove the battery and other cables before washing.
Care Guides for Popular Brands
Here are links to care guides from popular brands that produce heated jackets and vests:
