No, you should not air dry down.
While it might seem like a gentle way to dry your down items, air drying can actually cause problems. According to the provided reference, a down jacket should not be air-dried. This is primarily because:
- It takes too long: Air drying down takes a significant amount of time, increasing the risk of problems arising.
- Feathers clump: The down feathers are likely to clump together during the slow drying process, causing the jacket to lose its loft (fluffiness) and insulation properties.
- Bad smells develop: Damp down left to air dry for an extended period is prone to developing unpleasant odors.
Instead of air drying, the reference indicates that down jackets should be tumble dried at low heat. This is the recommended method to ensure the down dries properly and retains its fluffiness.
Here's a table summarizing the dos and don'ts of drying down items:
| Method | Suitability | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Air Drying | NOT Recommended | Slow drying leads to clumping and odor development |
| Tumble Drying (Low Heat) | Recommended | Fast drying prevents clumping, helps restore loft, and prevents odors |
Why is tumble drying better?
- Faster drying: Tumble drying with low heat helps dry the down quickly.
- Loft restoration: The tumbling action helps to separate the down clusters and restore their loft.
- Reduced odor risk: The faster drying time reduces the chance of mildew and odors.
Tips for tumble drying down:
- Use a low-heat setting on your dryer.
- Add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer. This helps to break up the clumps of down.
- Dry the item in multiple, shorter cycles, checking the item periodically and gently shaking it to ensure even drying.
In conclusion, always avoid air-drying down and opt for tumble drying with low heat for the best results.
