Guide on Softening Carhartt Coats
Carhartt jackets, known for their durability and protection, often come with a stiff canvas material that can be uncomfortable until they are broken in. Here's a simple method to soften your Carhartt jacket without causing damage.
Step 1: Soak Turn your Carhartt jacket inside out and soak it overnight in a mixture of water and distilled white vinegar. This solution helps to relax the fibers and remove stiffness.
Step 2: Wash After soaking, wash the jacket on a gentle cycle with mild detergent to remove dirt and residual vinegar.
Step 3: Dry with tennis balls Toss the wet jacket into the dryer with 2-3 clean tennis balls. Dry on a low heat setting. The tennis balls work as fabric softening agents by physically fluffing the fabric, preventing it from becoming too stiff or clumped while drying.
Remember, dry the jacket on a low-heat fluff cycle in the dryer, checking it every half an hour, or hang it up to air dry in a well-ventilated area if concerned about shrinkage. The tennis ball will make the jacket soft and pliable by repeatedly hitting the stiff threads of the canvas during the cycle.
Softening a Carhartt jacket results in a much more comfortable fit. However, keep in mind that the canvas outer material of Carhartt jackets can shrink while washing. To prevent this, consider buying a Carhartt jacket one size bigger than your usual size.
Ironing the jacket on low heat can also help remove any harsh lines and bumps, making it fit, look, and feel better. But this step is optional.
A shortcut to break in a Carhartt jacket is to soften it before use. To do this, place the jacket in a washing machine by itself, set the washer to the smallest capacity setting, and fill it with cold water. Do not add detergent, bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or any type of softener or starch. Pour one cup of white vinegar into the water and let the jacket soak in the vinegar and water mixture for one to two hours. Rinse the jacket by restarting the washer and completing the rinse cycle, without adding any detergent, bleach, or fabric softener.
Run an extra rinse cycle if any traces of vinegar smell remain in the fabric. Carhartt jackets are heavy, durable, warm, and provide comfort and protection in any weather. Softening them takes some extra time, but the result is a more comfortable fit and a jacket that will serve you well for years to come.
Engaging in a Carhartt lifestyle, you might also consider refreshing your fashion-and-beauty wardrobe with an array of classic pieces or updating your home-and-garden space by incorporating elements that mirror the toughness and durability of your beloved Carhartt jacket. For instance, introducing eco-friendly home furniture made from sturdy canvas or adopting a minimalist fashion style with timeless clothing items can resonate with the rugged aesthetic of Carhartt apparel.
