The cold weather will linger in Alabama through the month of March and that means you need to maintain your winter coats and keep them ready for everyday use. You cannot care for outerwear the same way you do your other laundry. Dry cleaning is the best method, but there are ways you can care for your jackets and coats to keep them looking good for years to come.

Down Jackets
Many people have down jackets because they are durable and extremely warm. These jackets require extra special care and professional dry cleaners will be able to do the best job. If you have a washing machine without a center spindle, you can wash a down jacket on the gentle cycle. You should run it through the washer once without soap and a second time with special down detergent. Allow the water to drain out and apply gentle pressure with a clean towel. The jacket can go into the dryer on low setting but remember to remove the jacket and fluff the down from time to time.

Trench Coats
Trench coats do not provide as much protection against cold temperatures but they are excellent at shedding water, so they offer great protection in the rain or snow. Trench coats should be hand washed with cold water. They need to go to a dry cleaner for seasonal or major cleaning.

Wool Coats
Wool is durable but should never be put in a washing machine. Remove dust and dirt with a suede brush and always hang a wool coat when it is not in use. If you spill liquid on it, blot the affected area with a clean cloth without rubbing. Have the coat dry cleaned if you cannot remove the stain.

Fur Coats
Fur requires special care for cleaning as well as storage. Fur outerwear should be covered by a loose garment bag with an open bottom. Never store it in plastic, and protect it from heat, direct sunlight and moisture. A furrier has the best facilities for storage during the summer. Contact a fur specialist to have it cleaned properly.