Most residential washers and dryers cannot clean bulky items effectively. For instance, comforters and large winter coats simply do not fit properly, so people must haul such items to a laundromat that has machines designed for heavy loads. If you are faced with such a task, below are some tips for washing your family's bulky winter coats.

What to Know About Washing Heavy Winter Coats

1. Combine Similar Materials

If you mix different types of materials, rougher fabrics can damage more delicate ones. For best results, wash fleece with fleece, nylon with nylon, and wool with wool, etc. However, check tags for care instructions before washing any coats. Some require dry cleaning, and traditional laundering can ruin them. 

2. Zip Up Zippers

Fasten zippers before placing coats into a washing machine. This not only helps the garment maintain its shape, but it also prevents the sharp zipper tab from damaging other garments or other parts of the coat. 

Also, make sure you remove all items from the pockets, including any inside breast pockets. You don't want loose objects hurtling around the washer or dryer. It could rip fabric or damage the appliance.

3. Wash and Dry Gently 

Choose the gentlest cycle for both washing and drying. This is particularly important for laundering down coats since the feathers can bunch together at higher speeds. 

Use only cool or warm water, and dry on low heat. In fact, for best results, consider air drying. When selecting a washer at the laundromat, try to choose a front-loading machine—or a top loader without a central agitator—for a gentler wash.

If you need a laundromat with high-capacity, coin-operated washers and dryers that can handle bulky objects like winter coats, stop by City Laundry in Lincoln, NE. They serve clients throughout Lancaster County and the surrounding areas. They offer a safe, clean space with free Wi-Fi, vending machines, and televisions in every corner. Connect your credit card to the PayRange app, and you never have to collect quarters again. Simply pay through your phone. Learn more about them by visiting their website or call (402) 483-2113 for laundromat hours or directions.