DOWN STORAGE

Store uncompressed out of direct sunlight in a dry, cool place. If your down product gets damp, air thoroughly and make sure it is completely dry before storing. If the product is still damp after airing a short program in a tumble dryer on a cool setting should restore the loft.

WASHING

We are proud of our manufacturing heritage; to keep your equipment in working order as long as possible we offer a variety of services which are carried out in our UK head office workshop. We offer an in-house wash and dry service for all our down products.

Please note that we will only clean Rab products and any damage will need to be repaired before washing. Please send us your item in good time before it is required for a trip, especially during autumn and winter. We cannot guarantee that washing will remove all stains from lightweight technical fabrics but we can assure you that the down inside will be clean and loft well. Do not wait until your item is heavily soiled before sending it to us as it will not only have impaired the performance of your item but it may be returned to you at your cost. We aim to process all services within 15 working days but this may take longer during busy periods.

If you wish to take advantage of our cleaning service, please click here and fill in the form at the bottom of the page.

Our cleaning team will then get back to you with confirmed price and address for you to send your Rab Down product to. 

Rab down products can be home cleaned, however, this is a difficult and time-consuming job as the drying process can take several hours. Please give it careful consideration before starting; box wall garments and sleeping bags may require you to redistribute the down after washing. Allow at least 3-4 hours for a jacket and 6-8 hours for a sleeping bag.

1) Hand or machine wash on a gentle 40º cycle with Nikwax Down Wash Direct, NOT DETERGENT.

2) Rinse to make sure there is no soap residue present within the product. If you are cleaning a box walled product, when removing it from the washing machine ensure that the weight of the item is supported by ‘cradling’ it in a bath towel or similar. Failure to do so may result in damage to the down compartments.

3) Immediate tumble drying should commence in a commercial dryer on a cool setting. Remove the item from the dryer every half hour, manipulating the down within the baffles to restore loft. Avoid the temptation to remove the item from the dryer too soon. Although the outer fabrics may feel dry and warm to the touch, down contained within the baffling can still be clumped because of moisture. Drying time varies depending on the jacket style and size but can take anywhere from 2-5 hours.

4) When finished it is advisable to store uncompressed in a dry, cool place. Airing should continue for two days before use. Failure to allow enough time for the item to dry will result in a flat looking garment that will need to be re-washed and dried again.