Carhartt Detroit Jacket washing

Want to wash your Carhartt Detroit Jacket without ruining the fit or color? Here you'll learn which method is best for denim, canvas, and waxed versions, which temperatures are safe, and how to minimize color bleeding. A general rule for Carhartt WIP (work in progress): wash as infrequently as possible and preferably on a gentle, cold cycle. Details about the fabrics can be found in: What materials is the Carhartt Detroit Jacket made of?

Care basics: Read the label, wash cold, dry gently.

Always check the care label and do not exceed the specified temperature. If possible, wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, turn the jacket inside out, close zippers and buttons, and wash dark colors separately. Use a mild detergent, no fabric softener or bleach. Air dry on a hanger and avoid the dryer. If you are unsure about the material or style, this overview will help: Carhartt WIP Detroit Jacket – all models .

How to wash a Detroit denim jacket: step-by-step

1. Preparation: Turn jacket inside out, empty pockets, close zipper. Wash dark denim items separately.
2. Washing method: Cold gentle wash with low spin cycle or gentle hand wash. Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent.
3. Alternative bathtub: Fill the tub with lukewarm to cold water, stir in detergent, immerse the jacket for 20 minutes, move it gently, then rinse thoroughly with cold water.
4. Drying: Gently squeeze out excess water, do not wring. Air dry on a hanger, avoiding direct sunlight and heat.

Bleeding note: Rigid and raw denim can bleed color. Never wash with light-colored fabrics. Optionally, you can soak the garment in cold water with a little vinegar before the first wash to slightly improve colorfastness. Test on an inconspicuous area first. For more information on shrinkage of Carhartt fabrics, see: Do Carhartt WIP pants shrink when washed?

Cleaning a Detroit Canvas Jacket

1. Spot clean first: Treat light stains with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
2. If using a washing machine, use a gentle cycle: cold delicate wash, low spin speed, mild detergent. Turn the jacket inside out and close the zipper.
3. Drying: Carefully reshape the mold while damp and hang to air dry. Do not tumble dry.

Dearborn Canvas and similar canvas qualities are robust, but can become stiffer, shrink, or develop a patina more quickly if washed too hot. Therefore, the rule is: wash less often, at lower temperatures, and with a gentler method.

Caring for waxed Carhartt jackets

Waxed jackets should not be machine washed. Spot clean with cold water and a soft cloth. For heavier soiling, gently wipe with a sponge and allow to dry completely. Then, if necessary, re-treat with fabric wax, especially around seams and high-wear areas. This will maintain the water-repellent finish. Learn more about whether and how you can wax the Detroit jacket: Can you wax the Carhartt Detroit jacket?

Avoid common mistakes

• Excessive temperature or strong spinning
• Heat dryer instead of air drying
• Use bleach or fabric softener
• Wash dark denim with light textiles

FAQ

Can you wash Carhartt jackets in the washing machine?

Yes, denim and unwashed canvas can be washed on a gentle cycle in cold water. Waxed garments should not go in the washing machine. Always check the care label, turn the jacket inside out, and use a mild detergent.

How do you wash a vintage Carhartt Detroit jacket?

For vintage items, it's best to gently hand wash in cold water or spot clean only. Dye can bleed significantly, so be sure to wash separately and do not wring. Air dry on a hanger.

What to do if the jacket is bleeding color?

Wash separately in cold water, using a mild detergent sparingly. Optionally, test a short soak in cold water with a little vinegar beforehand. Avoid contact with light-colored fabrics until the color transfer has subsided.

For personal advice and availability in Berlin: Carhartt WIP Detroit Jacket Berlin .