How to wash fleece: a complete guide

Whether you’re hiking, skiing or chilling in between, fleece is a go-to for its comfort, versatility and warmth. Plus, it's easy to wash in the machine. 

Watch our outdoor expert Phillip take you through the steps on how to wash your fleece.

Fleece doesn’t typically retain odor, so unless it’s dirty, we recommend machine washing it every three or four wears. While you should always check the manufacturer’s care label, there are a few steps that apply to almost all types of fleeces.

Close all fasteners, including zippers and buttons. Then, turn your fleece inside out to protect the outer fibers from friction and the color from fading.

A note about pilling:

While pilling is more common in low-quality fibers, it can occur in all fleeces (and many other garments), regardless of their quality. Prevent pilling by taking proper care of your fleece. Another tip is to wash your fleece in a mesh bag. This acts as an extra barrier, reducing the amount of friction between the fibers and the washing machine.

Fleece requires gentle care. Front-loading machines tend to be gentler on fabrics, but top-loading machines also work if they don’t have an agitator in the middle. Use a gentle detergent, making sure to follow the bottle for exact amounts. Avoid fabric softener. Then run the delicate cycle with cold water to prevent shrinking. Avoid hot water at all costs.

For heavy stains:

If your fleece is heavily stained, run a cycle with warm water.

For best results, we recommend that you air dry your fleece. Turn your fleece right side out and hang it on a clothes hanger or lay it flat on a drying rack in a cool, dry area. If there is any excess water, lay it on a towel and gently press out the water; avoid wringing or twisting the fabric.

Before you know it, your fleece will be back to performing at its best, so you can enjoy your favorite outdoor adventures even more.