Any suggestions for how to clean a down coat before patching a hole? I have some clear patching tape but the area around the hole is dirty and I don't want the dirt to be permanently encapsulated.

So far, my thought is to try to separate that bit of fabric from the down and spot clean it while trying not to get the down wet. Any better ideas? Normally I just throw it in the washer when it gets dirty but I have fears of feathers leaking out everywhere. The rip is about 1/4 inch long (plus a couple of very small holes nearby).

Spot clean by hand with something like NikWax Tech Wash. Patch the tear, and then wash the entire piece.

butthead

"Clear patching tape" ?

My preference is color matched Tenacious Tape. The repair will be less obvious and the texture will be consistent with the fabric of your coat.

You still might want to clear around the area just to assure consistent adherence.

You can find Tenacious Tape at most outdoors stores or find it here.

Good Luck

I have about seven pieces of Gorilla Tape on one of my coats. It has been through the wash five times and they are not coming off even a bit. Black on black so you hardly notice them.

If the tape is a little visible that is okay because it will give you some cred. People will know you have been out thrashing around and not just going to work and watching TV :).

Personally I would try and sew up the ripped bits, then spot clean around the damaged area with alcohol, let it dry, then apply tenacious tape (or something similar). Make sure you round off the corners of your repair tape. Helps prevent peeling.

You can launder it after you repair it as long as you try and clean up any oils around the repair area to help your tape adhere.

He’s right you know ^ ^ ^