A burn hole cannot be reversed by washing or pressing. Repair involves covering or replacing damaged material, and the heat may have affected more than the visible hole. Inspect the outer fabric, lining and insulation before deciding whether a patch is enough.
Determine the extent of damage
Let the garment cool completely and lay it flat. Look for hardened synthetic edges, discoloration, brittle fibers and hidden damage beneath the surface. Do not pull a melted edge apart or cut a large area away before planning the repair.
If the jacket is protective workwear, seek the manufacturer's repair guidance. A decorative patch does not establish continued protective performance. Ordinary fashion and outdoor jackets also need material-specific methods, especially where a coating or membrane is involved.
Choose a compatible repair
For a small hole in an otherwise sound unstructured synthetic shell, a compatible garment repair patch may be suitable. Follow its instructions for cleaning, overlap and bonding. Leather, wool and tailored fabric may be better served by a repairer who can assess panel replacement or a supported fabric patch.
Choose the patch size according to sound surrounding fabric, not simply the hole's diameter. A repair attached over brittle heat-damaged cloth can lift or tear away. Consider whether the lining also needs a separate repair.
Can the repair be invisible?
Sometimes a close color match makes it less conspicuous, but melting and texture changes can remain visible. Ask for a realistic finish before spending on restoration. Inspect the completed repair while moving and bending the affected area, and keep it away from the heat source that caused the damage.
Related reading
Outdoor jacket fabric guide. For another useful reference, see Jacket care instructions for team uniforms.
