Patagonia hoodies are built to last—crafted from high-quality, often sustainable materials like recycled polyester, organic cotton, or merino wool. But even the most durable hoodie needs proper care to extend its lifespan. Whether you wear it on the trails, around the campfire, or every day in town, knowing how to care for your Patagonia hoodie ensures it stays warm, soft, and in great shape for years. Here’s a complete guide on how to care for your Patagonia hoodie to maintain durability.
1. Read the Care Label First
Before anything else, always check the care tag inside your Patagonia hoodie. Patagonia provides specific care instructions based on fabric type—whether it’s fleece, organic cotton, or a technical shell. Ignoring the tag can lead to shrinking, pilling, or fabric damage.
2. Machine Washing Guidelines
Most Patagonia hoodies are machine washable, but gentle handling makes a difference:
- Use Cold or Warm Water: Hot water can break down technical fibers and fade color.
- Mild Detergent Only: Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners. These can harm the fabric and reduce breathability.
- Turn It Inside Out: This helps protect prints, zippers, and surface texture from friction in the wash.
Recommended Setting: Gentle or delicate cycle.
3. Drying: Air Dry Is Best
- Avoid the Dryer whenever possible. Tumble drying can damage synthetic fibers, cause shrinkage, or weaken insulation.
- Air Dry Flat or Hang Dry: Lay your hoodie on a clean towel or hang it on a sturdy hanger.
- If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and remove it while slightly damp to prevent overheating.
4. Spot Cleaning for Minor Stains
- For small stains or spills, spot clean with cold water and mild soap instead of washing the entire garment.
- Gently blot the stain with a cloth—don’t scrub harshly, which can wear out the fabric or fade the color.
5. Avoid Fabric Softeners and Dryer Sheets
Fabric softeners coat fibers and reduce the breathability of performance hoodies like the R1® or Nano-Air®. They can also interfere with water-repellent treatments on weather-resistant hoodies. Stick to eco-friendly, biodegradable detergents without additives.
6. Re-treat DWR Coatings (If Applicable)
Some Patagonia hoodies—especially windproof or water-resistant styles—have DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings.
- Over time, DWR coatings can wear off.
- Use a product like Nikwax or Grangers spray-on treatment to restore water repellency.
- Reapply every few months if you notice water no longer beads on the surface.
7. Store It Properly
- Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cramming your hoodie into tight drawers or backpacks for long periods.
- Use breathable garment bags or hang it loosely to maintain its shape.
- Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
8. Use Patagonia’s Worn Wear Program
If your hoodie gets damaged (snags, tears, zippers), consider:
- DIY repairs using Patagonia’s online resources and repair kits.
- Send it to Patagonia through their Worn Wear® repair service, which fixes gear for free or a small fee.
- Or trade it in and buy second-hand gear through the Worn Wear shop.
Final Thoughts: Long-Term Care for a Long-Term Hoodie
A Patagonia hoodie is more than just a sweatshirt—it’s an investment in comfort, performance, and sustainability. By taking a little extra care when washing, drying, storing, and repairing, you can make sure your hoodie lasts for years of use across all seasons. And when you care for your gear, you also support Patagonia’s mission of reducing waste and protecting the planet. Win-win.