How to Wash Fleece Jacket?

When the temperature dips and cold mornings become the new normal, most of us turn to our favorite cool-weather staples. Foremost among them, the fleece jacket has emerged as this season's perennial favorite — warm, breathable, lightweight and ideal for running errands or going on a weekend hike. The vast majority of those who purchased a way to stay warm in 2021 were drawn to fleece's functionality and wear-all-day coziness, leading to a 17% increase in sales from the previous year, according to REI Co-op's 2024 Fall Gear Trends Report. 

But amid all its convenience comes a quite serious question:

How do you wash a fleece jacket properly — without destroying the softness, texture and insulating power?

If you've ever pulled a fleece out of the laundry and found it pilled, matted or inexplicably stiff, you're not alone, in fact.

In this guide we will cover how to wash it, how often you should be washing it and the best ways to keep your mattress pad looking and feeling brand new. To further illustrate this guide we will also include a brief but true anecdote of how one celebrity stylist learned this the hard way.

Why Careful Washing Matters

Fleece is usually constructed using synthetic fibers such as polyester. It captures air between the fibers, which acts as insulation but without the puff. Yet this loft and softness can be destroyed easily by heat, strong detergents and vigorous washing.

Performance synthetic fabrics are also more prone to break down when washed in hot water or dried on high heat (and particularly for brushed fibers, like fleece, which become soft from brushing).

If washed improperly, fleece may:

  • Lose softness
  • Develop pilling
  • Flatten and reduce warmth
  • Trap odors
  • Stretch or lose shape

 So learning the correct washing method isn't just about cleanliness—it's about protecting your investment.

 

How Often Should You Wash a Fleece Jacket?

Many people assume fleece needs frequent washing because it's a winter layer, but experts disagree.

According to The New York Times Wirecutter laundry guide, outer layers that don't directly contact your skin—like fleece, puffers, and windbreakers—don't need to be washed after every wear. Instead:

Recommended laundry frequency:

  • Every 5–7 wears for casual lightweight fleece
  • Every 3–5 wears if used during workouts or outdoor activities
  • If it sucks up smoke, heavy smells or food stains immediately

Over-washing quickens the pace of fiber damage, and keeping washes in check will extend the life of the garment.

 

How to Wash a Fleece Jacket: Step by Step

This easy 5-step process is endorsed by outdoor clothing pros like REI's Fabric Care Guide:

1. Turn the Jacket Inside Out

This reduces friction during washing and helps prevent pilling on the outside.

2. Wash with Cold Water Only

Hot water is the #1 cause of flattened fleece fibers.

Use cold water on gentle cycle.

3. Use a Mild or Sport Detergent

Avoid:

  • Heavy duty detergents
  • Bleach
  •  Fabric softeners (they coat fibers and reduce breathability)

Using a small amount of detergent helps prevent product buildup in the fibers.

4. Wash Alone or With Similar Fabrics

Washing fleece with towels, jeans, or sweaters creates heavy abrasion.

If possible, wash only with:

  • Other fleece
  • Polyester activewear
  • Lightweight synthetic layers

5. Skip the Dryer—Air Dry Instead

Heat destroys fleece loft.

Lay the jacket flat on a towel or hang it in a well-ventilated area.

If you must use a dryer, choose:

  • No heat
  • Tumble air setting ONLY

This prevents fibers from becoming matted and keeps fleece looking new.

 

How to Get Smells Out Without Destructing Fabric

Every once in awhile fleece takes on sweat or smells from the kitchen.

Rather than rewash multiple times, try this approach from Consumer Reports:

  • Combine ½ cup white vinegar and chilled cold water
  • Soak fleece for 10–15 minutes
  • Rinse thoroughly and air dry

Vinegar scent disappears quickly when the liquid dries, odor takes it away as well not damaging synthetic materials.

 

How to Keep Your Fleece From Pilling

Pilling is what occurs when short fibers on the outside break apart and become small balls.

To minimize pilling:

  • Wash inside out
  • Do not overload the washer
  • Avoid rough fabrics
  • Always air dry
  • Use a fabric shaver gently if needed

Pricier fleece tends to pill less than cheaper counterparts — but caring for it well is key.

 

When a Celebrity Stylist Found Out the Hard Way

And in 2023, a stylist for the Hollywood star Lily Collins shared a hilarious behind-the-scenes story on Instagram. On a winter shoot in Colorado, the stylist supplied so many fleece layers for the team that after we all spent one hurried evening laundering them in a hotel laundry room, one came back stiff, shrunken and completely matted.

The culprit?

She accidentally washed it with the crew's denim jeans—on high heat.

The next morning, the stylist joked, "This is why I tell everyone: fleece needs spa treatment, not army boot camp." The ruined jacket sparked a discussion among wardrobe teams about proper washing methods, and even REI later reposted the incident as a reminder for outdoor enthusiasts.

It's a funny story—but also a real example of how even pros can make laundry mistakes.

 

How to Store Fleece So It Lasts Longer

When the season ends, don't just stuff fleece into a drawer.

Proper storage includes:

  • Folding instead of hanging (to avoid stretching)
  • Keeping it in a cool, dry place
  • Avoiding vacuum bags, which compress fibers
  • Ensuring it's fully dry before storing to prevent mildew

This helps retain its shape and fluffiness.

 

Lastly, some ideas to keep your fleece jacket flawless all winter long

  • Spot-clean little stains than washing the entire piece
  • Shake it out between rides to recapture loft
  • Lightly brush it with a garment brush every couple of washes
  • Be sure to always read the care label (every brand is slightly different)

Fleece done right can last for years, remaining soft, warm and free of pills.

 

Conclusion

One of the most comfortable and versatile pieces in your winter wardrobe is a fleece jacket. Plus, the more people opt for cozy outer layers in the fall and winter, being able to care for fleece is as important as ever. By giving it gentle bath, keeping it out of the hot seat and storing it properly, you can keep your faux fur fresh, fluffy and ready to warm you for many winters down the road.