How to Care for Your Extra-Warm Changing Poncho
By Slowtide | Art Inspired Towels, Blankets & Changing Ponchos | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to wash, dry, and maintain your extra-warm changing poncho to keep it soft, absorbent, and lasting for years.
Quick answer
Wash your extra-warm changing poncho in cold water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low or air dry. Avoid fabric softener and bleach to preserve the cotton terry's absorbency and softness.
Why proper care matters for your poncho
Your extra-warm changing poncho is made from heavyweight, ultra-absorbent cotton terry. This fabric is designed to keep you warm and dry after swimming or changing outdoors, but it needs a little attention to stay that way. Harsh detergents, high heat, and fabric softeners can break down the cotton fibers, reduce absorbency, and cause pilling over time.
The Fillmore Extra-Warm Poncho inspired by the Grateful Dead is a functional piece of art. Keeping it clean and well-maintained ensures the iconic artwork stays vibrant and the poncho remains a reliable companion for beach trips, camping, and everyday use.
Common mistakes to avoid
Using fabric softener or dryer sheets is the most common mistake. They coat the cotton fibers with a waxy layer that reduces absorbency.
Bleach can weaken the fabric and fade the artwork. Stick to oxygen-based stain removers if needed.
Drying on high heat can shrink the poncho and damage the fibers. Always use low heat or air dry.
Step-by-step care routine for your extra-warm poncho
- 1. Pre-treat stains gently: Spot-clean any stains with a mild detergent or oxygen-based stain remover. Apply directly to the stain, let sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water. Avoid rubbing vigorously, which can damage the artwork. Oxygen-based stain removers are safe for cotton terry and won't fade the print.
- 2. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water: Turn the poncho inside out to protect the artwork. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild, liquid detergent. Avoid fabric softener and bleach. Wash with like colors to prevent dye transfer. Cold water prevents shrinking and color fading. A gentle cycle reduces wear on the fabric.
- 3. Dry on low heat or air dry: Tumble dry on low heat or hang the poncho to air dry. Remove from the dryer while still slightly damp to reduce wrinkles. Avoid high heat, which can shrink the cotton and damage the fibers. Low heat preserves the fabric's loft and absorbency. Air drying is the gentlest option.
- 4. Store flat or folded in a dry place: Fold the poncho and store it in a cool, dry area. Avoid hanging it for long periods, as the weight of the wet fabric can stretch the shoulders. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Proper storage prevents stretching and keeps the artwork vibrant.
Product spotlight
- Fillmore Extra-Warm Poncho | Grateful Dead x Slowtide: The Fillmore Extra-Warm Poncho is made from heavyweight, ultra-absorbent cotton terry. This fabric provides excellent warmth and drying power, but it requires gentle care to maintain its absorbency and softness over time.
Fillmore Extra-Warm Poncho | Grateful Dead x Slowtide
