Should I wash it?

Short answer: yes, but only occasionally. And always by the label. Aside from using energy and water, releasing microplastics in the process, machine washing an insulated jacket too often will damage the fill. Down is especially susceptible to over-washing. But the occasional spin, using a dedicated cleaning product, will prolong its life.

Many brands recommend washing a jacket ‘once a season’ (after winter) and offer in-house cleaning services. But if it doesn’t smell and is worn infrequently, you can get away with longer intervals between washes. The Down Care Kit from Grangers (£15.75), which includes a 2-in-1 wash and repel solution, and three dryer balls, has everything you need to wash a down jacket at home:

• Rinse out your washing machine to

remove any leftover detergent.

• Wipe away any visible dirt from your jacket and close all zips and fastenings before placing it in the machine.

• Pour a dedicated cleaner into the detergent drawer and set it to a cool, gentle cycle and slow spin.

• Additional spin cycles will remove any

excess water.

• Tumble dry the jacket on short, low heat cycles of 20-30 minutes, with dryer balls to help restore the loft. • Drying can take several hours; the bigger the jacket, the longer it takes. When it feels puffy again, it’s ready to remove and hang to air dry for a while.