How to Clean Winter Gear Before Storage (Coats, Gloves, Boots, and More)

Storing winter gear while dirty is one of the most common care mistakes. Oils, sweat, salt, and food residue left on fabric break down fibers during storage, set stains permanently, and attract pests like moths. Properly cleaned and stored gear lasts years longer. This guide covers everything from down jackets to ski boots.

Why Cleaning Before Storage Matters

Several things happen when soiled items are stored:

• Stains set: Oils and food stains that could be washed out in spring become permanent after months of sitting
• Fiber degradation: Body salts and acids in sweat break down natural fibers over months
• Mold and mildew: Any residual moisture in stored items can cause mold in sealed containers
• Pest damage: Wool, cashmere, and down retain scent traces that attract moths and other insects — clean items are far less attractive
• Odor: Stored odors become trapped and intensify, difficult to remove next season

Down Jackets and Puffer Coats

Washing

Down can be machine washed — it's easier than most people think.

1. Check all pockets are empty; close all zippers and velcro.
2. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water (follow care label).
3. Use a down-specific detergent (Nikwax Down Wash, Granger's Down Wash) — regular detergent strips the natural oils from down feathers, reducing loft and insulation.
4. Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed (detergent residue clumps down and reduces loft).
5. Drying is critical: Tumble dry on low heat with 2–3 clean tennis balls or dryer balls. These break up clumping down as it dries. Expect 2–3 drying cycles; check between each and break up any remaining clumps by hand. The jacket should be completely dry and lofted before storage — damp down develops mold and permanent flat spots.

Storage

Store down jackets loosely, not compressed in a stuff sack. Compression over months breaks down the loft structure. A large breathable cotton storage bag or simply hanging in a wardrobe is ideal.

Wool, Cashmere, and Fleece

Wool and Cashmere

Hand wash in cool water with wool-specific detergent. Rinse thoroughly, roll in a towel to remove moisture, and dry flat. Before storing, check for moth damage (small irregular holes). Add cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or cedar-lined storage bags as natural moth deterrents — avoid mothballs, which are toxic and leave a persistent chemical smell.

Fleece

Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold water. Do not use fabric softener. Tumble dry on low or air dry. Store in a breathable bag or box — not airtight, as fleece benefits from airflow.

Waterproof Jackets and Shell Layers

Washing

Use a technical outdoor cleaner (Nikwax Tech Wash, Grangers Performance Wash) — regular detergent leaves residues that block the DWR coating and reduces breathability. Wash on a gentle cycle, cold or warm water per care label. Rinse twice.

Re-treating DWR

After washing and drying, test water repellency: sprinkle water on the outer shell. If it beads and rolls off, the DWR is intact. If it wets out (soaks in), re-treat with a DWR spray (Nikwax TX.Direct, Grangers) before storing. Apply the spray to a clean, damp jacket; allow to dry, then tumble dry on low for 20 minutes to bond the treatment.

Storage

Hang on a hanger or store folded in a breathable bag. Never store compressed — it can crease the laminate and degrade DWR performance.

Base Layers and Thermal Underwear

Merino wool base layers: wash per the wool instructions above. Synthetic thermal base layers: machine wash cold on a gentle cycle; air dry or low tumble dry. Avoid fabric softener on both — it reduces moisture-wicking performance. Store folded or rolled in a drawer; these items don't need special storage as they're not susceptible to moths or DWR degradation.

Gloves and Mittens

See the detailed guide to washing gloves by material type. For storage: clean thoroughly, ensure completely dry, store with a cedar block (for wool) or in a small breathable bag. Storing in matched pairs in a labeled box or designated drawer saves time at the start of next season.

Scarves and Hats

Wash wool and cashmere scarves and hats by hand in cool water with wool detergent. Dry flat. Store with cedar moth protection. Acrylic and synthetic scarves/hats: machine wash gentle, cool, air dry. Store in a box or drawer — no special requirements beyond being clean and dry.

Winter Boots

Leather Boots

1. Remove laces and insoles. Wash laces separately in a mesh bag. Allow insoles to air out.
2. Brush off all dirt and salt residue with a soft brush.
3. Clean with a leather cleaner or saddle soap on a damp cloth.
4. Allow to dry at room temperature — not near a radiator or heat source.
5. Apply leather conditioner after cleaning to restore moisture and prevent cracking.
6. Apply a waterproofing wax or spray for boots (Sno-Seal, Nikwax) to protect through storage and next season.
7. Stuff with newspaper or boot shapers to maintain shape; store upright.

Rubber and Synthetic Boots

Wash with warm soapy water and a brush. Rinse, dry completely. Apply a rubber protectant if desired. Store out of direct sunlight, which degrades rubber over time.

Ski and Snowboard Gear

Ski Jacket and Pants

Follow the waterproof jacket process above. Check seam tape for any separation and re-seal if needed (use a seam sealer pen). Re-treat DWR if needed.

Ski Boots

Remove inner liners and allow both the shell and liners to dry completely before storing. Wipe down with a damp cloth. Store buckled loosely (not tightly clasped) to prevent the plastic shell from warping under tension. Keep at room temperature — extreme cold makes ski boot plastic brittle.

Helmet

Remove padding (if removable) and wash in warm soapy water. Wipe the shell with a damp cloth. Allow to dry completely. Store in a bag away from heavy items that could press on it.

General Storage Rules for Winter Gear

• Always dry completely before sealing in any container — moisture causes mold and odor
• Use breathable containers for natural fibers — cotton bags, cotton-lined boxes, or wardrobes with good airflow
• Airtight plastic bins are fine for synthetics and gear that doesn't breathe, not for wool or cashmere
• Label everything — saves 15 minutes of searching in October
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and away from damp areas (basements, garages without climate control)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store winter clothes in vacuum bags?

Vacuum bags work well for synthetics and down (though re-lofting may take a cycle in the dryer). Avoid vacuum bags for structured wool or cashmere knits — compression for months can deform the garment shape.

Should I store boots in their original boxes?

Cardboard boxes are breathable and maintain shape — they work well for storage. Avoid sealed plastic bins for leather boots, as they trap any residual moisture.

How do I deal with mold found on stored gear?

For fabric: wash immediately with detergent; add white vinegar or oxygen bleach (check care label) to the wash. For leather: wipe with a diluted white vinegar solution, allow to dry, then condition. Prevent future mold by ensuring everything is completely dry before storage.

Recommended Products (Affiliate)

• Technical Outerwear Wash
• Waterproof Spray Reproofer
• Vacuum Storage Bags
• Cedar Blocks

Conclusion

Taking 2–3 hours at the end of winter to properly clean and store all your cold-weather gear saves you money, extends garment life, and means everything is ready to go when temperatures drop again next year. The key rules: clean before storage, dry completely, use breathable containers for natural fibers, and re-treat water-repellent coatings.

Related: washing wool sweaters, washing gloves and mittens, and washing silk scarves.