Coats & Jackets Care Guide
By Drake's
Jul 30, 2026
A good coat or jacket tends to become something of a fixture. Hung by the door, thrown over the back of a chair or carried from one season to the next, these are the pieces that often see the most of our daily lives.
Each is designed to be worn often and without ceremony. A little care, however, will ensure they continue to do so for many years to come.
General Care
More often than not, outerwear benefits from restraint. Spot clean where possible and avoid unnecessary washing or dry cleaning, both of which can shorten the life of a garment over time.
After wearing, allow coats and jackets to air before returning them to the wardrobe. Use a broad, supportive hanger to help maintain their shape, particularly in the shoulders.
Wool Jackets & Blazers
Our wool tailoring is made to soften and settle with wear. Whether cut from fresco, flannel or a robust tweed, wool has a natural resilience and rarely requires frequent cleaning.
A clothes brush will remove dust and surface dirt, while occasional steaming can help refresh the cloth and release creases. When required, we recommend entrusting wool tailoring to a reputable dry cleaner with experience handling structured garments.
Always store jackets on a properly shaped hanger and allow them time to rest between wears.
Games Tailoring
Designed with everyday wear in mind, many of our Games jackets and trousers are machine washable, making them particularly well suited to travel and life on the move.
Always consult the care label before washing, but where machine washing is recommended, use a gentle cycle at a low temperature and avoid overfilling the drum. Once washed, reshape the garment while damp and hang to dry naturally.
One of the pleasures of Games tailoring is that it is intended to develop a little character over time. The occasional crease or softened edge is very much part of the appeal.
Wax Jackets
Waxed cotton is an inherently practical material, prized for its weather resistance and distinctive character. Over time, the wax finish will naturally develop creases and variations in tone that reflect how the garment has been worn.
Avoid machine washing or dry cleaning waxed jackets, as both will strip away the protective finish. Instead, sponge clean with cold water and allow the garment to dry naturally.
With regular wear, the wax coating will gradually diminish and may require reproofing. This is a straightforward process and one that helps ensure the jacket continues to perform as intended for years to come.
Storage
Store coats and jackets on sturdy hangers in a cool, dry wardrobe with enough room for air to circulate. Before putting garments away for the season, ensure they are clean and completely dry.
Heavier wool pieces may benefit from a breathable garment bag during longer periods of storage, while cedar wood can help protect natural fibres from moths.
Coats and jackets tend to improve through use. The softened sleeve of a favourite blazer, the patina of a waxed jacket or the familiar drape of a well-travelled coat are less signs of age than evidence of a life well lived.
