As the temperatures take a nosedive, winter jackets are a must-have, especially for the little ones facing frosty school runs.
Parents are all too familiar with the battle to keep these coats clean through the sludge and grime of the season, without them falling apart. Whether they're being used as impromptu footballs or stuffed into backpacks, even the gentlest of winters can leave outerwear looking worn out.
But fear not, fashion experts at JoJo Maman Bébé have come to the rescue with a nifty trick to keep your kids' coats looking box-fresh, no matter what they get up to.
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The key is in the cleaning at home, but it's the drying that really counts, according to the style savants. They reckon letting the coats hang out to dry naturally is the secret to keeping them in tip-top shape.
"Most fabrics can be air dried by laying the coat on a flat surface or hanging it in a well-ventilated area. This method helps maintain the coat's shape and prevents fabric damage," the Liverpool Echo was told.
Steer clear of the tumble dryer, they warn, as the intense heat can wreak havoc on certain man-made materials, causing them to warp, shrink, or lose their feel-good factor. By giving your dryer a miss, you're not only avoiding potential mishaps but also extending your coat's life, ensuring it stays snazzy for the whole winter.
On top of that, the fashionistas suggest that while the odd wash is inevitable, try not to make a habit of laundering those bulky jackets too often.
The mavens have spoken: "The fabric of the coat will dictate how often you should wash it. For heavier coats like a puffer coat, wash as required, but always check the care label beforehand as washing instructions can differ from garment to garment."
They chimed in with more wisdom, saying, "Children's lighter rain jackets or macs can be washed as required or wiped clean to remove mud or dirt. However, fleeced jackets typically need washing more frequently as they can cling on to odours more than other fabrics so cleaning after every few wears would be best for these."
Getting your winter gear ready?
They've got a tip: "If a winter coat has been in storage over the warmer months, it's best to freshen it up by either machine washing, if safe to do so, or by leaving it to air outside for a few hours."
And when it comes to kitting out your kiddo, they've got that covered too: "Puffer jackets are a great option for balancing both aspects or look for a light waterproof jacket that can be layered over a jumper on colder days.
"If you expect your child's coat to get dirty easily and require frequent washing, a fleece-lined waterproof style may be a good option."
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