The care label comes first
Similar-looking fleece garments can differ in fibres, trims and closures. Read the label first: its temperature, cycle and drying instructions apply to that particular item. Ask the maker if the label is missing. Do not automatically transfer one suit’s instructions to another. Before washing, gently remove loose hair without stretching the fabric.
Prepare the garment
Check any pockets, fasten closures and turn the piece inside out. Close hook-and-loop fasteners carefully so they cannot catch the fleece or nearby garments. A laundry bag can help with small items. Avoid packing the drum tightly; the fabric needs room to wash and rinse evenly.
Gentle washing and drying
Use the labelled cycle and a modest amount of suitable detergent. Excess product is harder to rinse out. Do not add fabric softener unless the maker recommends it. Reshape the item after washing and dry it according to the label. Direct contact with a hot radiator can damage both the fabric and its trims.
Between washes
Air and fully dry the garment before storing it after a walk. A small mark may be cleaned separately if the material allows it. Inspect cuffs and seams occasionally. Repair damage before the next wash or active outing; both can turn a small snag into a much larger one.
Useful? Save it for your next walk.
