When machine washing always use a front load machine-top loading agitator
When machine washing always use a front load machine-top loading agitator machines can damage the garment.
1) Clean with Nikwax Down Wash. Dirt and body oils will contaminate the down causing it to clump together and loose loft. Dirt also attracts water and reduces the beading-up of droplets on the fabric's surface. Wash the garment in Nikwax Down Wash non-detergent soap. Detergents can leave water-attractive residues that will not rinse out. They also contain agents that can wash away the natural oils of the down. Never use liquid detergents or fabric softeners.
2) Treat to add water-repellency with Nikwax Down Proof. The performance of down-filled garments in wet or humid conditions will be enhanced by applying the appropriate Nikwax treatment.
To add water-repellency to the whole garment shell,linen knit fabric down and inner lining use Nikwax Down Proof. Nikwax Down Proof is a wash-in product that will treat the whole garment with a durable water repellency (DWR) that does not affect breathability, look or feel. Note: If your down garment incorporates a waterproof breathable shell fabric, you should use Nikwax TX-Direct Spray-On.
Nikwax TX-Direct lasts several washings and does not need to be reapplied after every wash. TX-Direct Spray-On should be used on these garments when you do not want to treat the down itself. Independent lab tests indicated that Nikwax Down Proof could slightly reduce the breathability when used on a fabric with a microporous laminate or coating.