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http://www.rab.uk.com/care_+_repair/care_for_down_filled_products/
I've read the instructions on the RAB site and it looks pretty straight forward, but has anyone actually done it?
Yes.
Didn't work. But I think mine was beyond saving.
Yes, but I wouldn't do it again
It's really difficult to 'unclump' the down in the drying process
My down bag didnt even come back from Franklins (specialist) cleaner as clump free as i remembered...and they are a specialist cleaner.
I woudln't bother unless its completely minging or got soaked or something.
I just leave mine very grubby. At least if people ask I can say it spend a few weeks in the Andes.
I've done mine a couple of times. I use the nikwax down wash and follow the instructions on the back. hand hot water in bath, wash item, leave it for a while, wash it some more concentrate on dirty areas, rinse in cold water, spin it a few times at slowest speed, take it to launderette and tumble dry on medium temp until it's dry (this takes longer than you think, I usually have slotted about £6 worth of 20ps in before the down is properly dry and lofted). You might want to take advice on the best way to tumble dry, I don't think putting only one item in is the best thing. I've also heard putting tennis balls in works well.
Mine's a Mountain Equipment lightline or snowline or something like that in bright orange and is currently very much in need of a wash.
After washing, fast spin it about 3 times to get rid of all the water. Put a couple of tennis balls into the machine whilst doing this and it will stop the down clumping. Do not be tempted to remove the jacket from the machine while it is still full of water, it will be extremely heavy and it is really easy to damage the garment you are washing. Been using this method to wash down sleeping bags for years and never had a problem with clumping yet.