Buzz Rickson M-65 help needed please

[geedee]

Hi guys, have any of you ever tried washing a BR M-65 combat jacket? I was going to try washing it but the label says not to wash - can anyone help?

 

[Zoro]

Perhaps you've got a different iteration of the jacket, but as it sounds quite weird that a garment specifically says not to wash something at all, I've queried and found this picture in this site - https://sonofastag.com/products/buzz-ricksons-m-65-combat-field-jacket-olive-drab

"Launder with mild soap or synthetic detergents". Still quite undetailed as usually they also state washing temperature, I guess I would just wash it at 30ºC.

 

[geedee]

Perhaps you've got a different iteration of the jacket, but as it sounds quite weird that a garment specifically says not to wash something at all, I've queried and found this picture in this site - https://sonofastag.com/products/buzz-ricksons-m-65-combat-field-jacket-olive-drab

View attachment 703384

"Launder with mild soap or synthetic detergents". Still quite undetailed as usually they also state washing temperature, I guess I would just wash it at 30ºC.

Hey thanks for getting back to me - I think you've got it. The repro vintage military label on the lining says it can be laundered (like your photo) but the modern BR label in the pocket says not -

.......so now I don't know what to do - arrrr!!

 

[Zoro]

Indeed, "do not wash" and "do not wet clean". The underscored circled F means "dry clean with petroleum solvent only".

 

[BloodEagle]

Just chuck it in the wash - go for 30 degrees if youre feeling cautious - Ive had BR and Real McCoys jackets which were supopsedly dry clean only/non washable etc and Ive just put them in the washing machine like anything else - the idea of an M-65 of all things not being up to the task of being washed is odd

 

[Peacoat]

Just chuck it in the wash - go for 30 degrees if youre feeling cautious - Ive had BR and Real McCoys jackets which were supopsedly dry clean only/non washable etc and Ive just put them in the washing machine like anything else - the idea of an M-65 of all things not being up to the task of being washed is odd

While I tend to agree with you that an M-65 should be able to be washed, the manufacturer might have a specific reason for these instructions. This is not the standard issue field coat, but is a reproduction. The only reason I can think of is shrinkage, but there may be others. If the coat has a trim fit as is, I would be leery of washing it.

I normally follow the label instructions, and have never had a problem.

 

[Bennarion]

If there are concerns, it is worth washing the jacket by hand in cool water.

 

[geedee]

Thanks for your advice guys. I agree, having an M65 that can't be washed is a bit like having a teapot made of chocolate! Sadly it's an expensive mistake if it goes wrong.......I might drop an email to BR and see if they get back to me with anything.