I'm finding my sack coat to be a bit stiff.  I got about six months ago, and haven't worn it but 5 times so I have not had a reason to have it cleaned.  Anyhow, the label says dryclean only, however, I want to give the coat a little more worn look (just a bit), and soften it up.  

I was thinking about washing it in cold water on the gentle cycle, and line drying it.  However I don't want it to shrink.  will this achieve my goal?

Thanks.

If it doesn't need to be cleaned, then don't clean it.  I would say to soften it up is to wear it.  Put it on and wear it around the yard while doing some work outside.  Wear it as your spring coat to break it in.

Plus the coat will wear out with use, so no need to speed up the process.

I don't think I've ever seen a sack coat with a dry clean label in it.

For goodness sake don't put it in the washer! Hang it out in the rain and let it sun dry. Wear it whenever you can. but, don't put it in the washer, unless it's 6 sizes too big.

my husbands has the dry clean label too. i wouldnt put it in the wash. wool shrinks way too easy, theres no way i would chance it, although i know its going to get wet at some point!

Thanks for the advise.  I'll just leave it alone, no washer.