Importance of Caring for Patagonia Fleece
Patagonia’s fleeces are designed for durability, comfort, and performance, but like any high-quality gear, they’ll last longer if treated properly. Proper care not only keeps your fleece soft and warm, it also reduces shedding of microfibres into the environment — helping protect the planet while protecting your investment.
Patagonia’s Worn Wear® Program
Patagonia’s Worn Wear® program is a unique initiative encouraging customers to repair, reuse, and recycle their gear instead of replacing it. If your fleece needs a new zipper, patch, or general refresh, Worn Wear offers professional repairs to extend its life — a more sustainable choice than buying new.
Tip 1: Understanding Washing Fleece Jackets
Best Practices for Washing Patagonia Fleece
- Wash your Patagonia fleece only when necessary to preserve the fabric and reduce microfibre release.
- Turn the garment inside out before washing to minimise surface wear.
Recommended Water Temperature
- Use cold or lukewarm water (30°C / 86°F or below) to prevent shrinkage and protect the fibres.
Ideal Washing Cycle
- Select a gentle or delicate cycle to avoid excessive friction.
Tip 2: Selecting the Right Detergent
Types of Detergent Suitable for Fleece
- Choose a mild, non-biological detergent without added softeners or bleach.
- Liquid detergents are generally gentler on fleece than powders.
Avoiding Harmful Chemicals
- Never use fabric softeners — they can coat fleece fibres and reduce breathability.
- Avoid harsh stain removers, which may damage the recycled polyester fibres.
Tip 3: Air Drying vs. Machine Drying
Benefits of Air Drying Patagonia Fleece
- Air drying is the safest method — simply lay the fleece flat or hang it in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
- This prevents heat damage, maintains the jacket’s shape, and reduces energy use.
Safe Machine Drying Techniques
- If you must machine dry, choose a low or no-heat tumble setting.
- Remove the fleece promptly to avoid wrinkles and static build-up.
Tip 4: Preventing Pilling
Causes of Pilling on Patagonia Fleece
- Pilling happens when friction causes loose fibers to form small balls on the fabric surface, especially on high-contact areas like sleeves and sides.
Tips to Minimise Pilling
- Wash inside out on a gentle cycle.
- Avoid wearing your fleece under heavy backpacks or rough outer layers for extended periods.
- Remove pills gently with a fabric shaver — never pull them off by hand.
Tip 5: Regular Maintenance and Repairs
How to Identify Damage Early
- Check seams, zippers, and high-wear areas regularly.
- Address small issues quickly before they become bigger problems.
Exploring Patagonia’s Worn Wear® Repair Options
Patagonia offers free or low-cost repairs through its Worn Wear® program.
If you prefer a DIY approach, Patagonia also provides repair kits which you can buy here and tutorials.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your Patagonia fleece is about more than keeping it looking fresh — it’s a commitment to sustainability and getting the most out of your gear. By following these five essential tips, you can ensure your fleece stays warm, soft, and adventure-ready for years to come.