# How do I clean my product?

> DOWN PRODUCTS:  Spot clean by hand with cold water or use mild, eco-friendly detergent. We don’t recommend machine washing or drying, but it is a possi...

Source: https://help.cotopaxi.com/en_us/how-do-i-clean-my-product-Sy7pSmxjd

Last updated: 2026-07-07T20:02:16.984Z

Every piece of gear encounters dirt, odors, or stains eventually. Taking care of your gear is part of the adventure—and helps it last even longer. Most issues can be solved with quick action, gentle products, and the right technique.

**General Guidelines**  
\- Use a front-load washer only  
\- Wash with cold water on a gentle/delicate cycle  
\- Use mild, eco-friendly detergent  
\- No fabric softeners, bleach, dry cleaning, or ironing  
\- When drying, opt for low/no heat or air dry depending on the item  
\- Always close zippers, snaps, and Velcro before washing

**By Product Category**  
**Apparel** (Everyday)  
Cold wash, gentle cycle. Tumble dry low or hang to dry.

**Activewear**  
Same as apparel, but hang drying is best to preserve stretch and performance.

**Insulated & Rainwear** (Calido, Cielo, Impermeo, Rayu, fleece)  
Wash sparingly and separately. Tumble dry low.

**Down-Insulated Gear**  
Wash sparingly. Tumble dry low with 2–3 clean tennis balls or dryer balls to restore loft. Dry thoroughly—this may take several 30-minute dryer cycles. Never heat-dry with visible stains.

**Packs**  
Do not machine wash. Spot clean with cold water and mild soap. Use a soft toothbrush for stubborn areas. For greasy spots, a dab of Dawn dish soap works wonders.

**Accessories** (Gloves, hats, scarves)  
Machine wash cold on gentle cycle. Lay flat to dry—placing them on top of a running dryer helps speed things up.

**Advanced Cleaning Tips**  
\- Wearing once doesn’t mean it needs washing! Especially true for down items, which should only be washed a few times a year under normal use.  
\- Stain still visible? Don’t dry it yet. Heat sets stains and makes removal nearly impossible.  
\- Use minimal product. A little dish soap or vinegar goes a long way.  
\- Test stain solutions on small areas first. Especially if using rubbing alcohol, which can damage certain coatings.

**Stain Breakdown**  
\- Tough stains: Mix dish soap 1:1 with water. Spray, scrub gently.  
\- Oil-based (butter, SPF, mayo): Apply dish soap directly.  
\- Stubborn (grease, ink, wine): Dab with rubbing alcohol using a cotton ball. Try 1:1 mix of Dawn and club soda.  
\- Odors (skunk, cat pee): Soak in mild detergent + vinegar for 20–60 min. Scrub smelly areas gently.

  

[**Let us know**](https://cotopaxi.kustomer.help/contact/contact-form-SktUg7Vf_) if you’re unsure—our team’s happy to help troubleshoot tough stains or fabric-specific care!