You’ve found the perfect rain jacket. It’s lightweight, wind-resistant, waterproof, and stylish. You’ve invested time and money to purchase this jacket. But like any good investment, you want it to last. Even the most durable and water-resistant jackets will begin to lose their effectiveness over time. It’s normal. That doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with the jacket – torrential downpours, snowstorms, and muddy terrains can take their toll. Cleaning your rain jacket can ensure that it lasts for many seasons to come.
Why clean your rain jacket?
A dirty jacket doesn’t only affect appearance. It can also diminish its effectiveness against the elements. On humid summer days when the rain starts to fall, you not only want to stay dry, but comfortable. Besides rain, dust, body oils, dirt and even smoke can easily get into the fibres. These can affect your jacket’s ability to do its job.
If your jacket has lost its water repellency, the fabric will begin to absorb water on the surface, diminishing breathability, and adding weight to the garment. The water absorption process is known as ‘wetting out,’ and once this starts to happen, it’s time to give your technical shell a good clean.
Is Washing a GORE-TEX Jacket Different from Washing Other Shells?
Washing a GORE-TEX jacket is not significantly different from washing any other waterproof and breathable shell. GORE-TEX is a brand that has become synonymous with waterproof and breathable fabrics, but it’s important to note that there are other types of membranes used in similar jackets. We also cover the different types of waterproof-breathable technologies in our blog.
The basic care principles apply universally: use a mild detergent, opt for a front-loading washing machine, air dry the jacket to prevent heat damage, and reapply DWR as needed. While GORE-TEX is a well-known brand, the broader category of waterproof and breathable fabrics encompasses various technologies that function similarly. So, whether it’s GORE-TEX or another membrane, proper care ensures the longevity and effectiveness of the jacket’s waterproofing and breathability.
The key to successful cleaning: the detergent
Using a mild, liquid detergent designed specifically for technical fabrics is essential. Avoid harsh detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, or powdered detergents as they can compromise the jacket’s waterproof and breathable properties. Following the manufacturer’s care instructions and guidelines ensures that you’re using the right products and methods for optimal results. Here is one of the best options:
Grangers Concentrated Performance Cleaner stands out as an excellent choice for cleaning rain jackets due to its exceptional formula tailored for technical fabrics. Specifically designed to maintain the waterproofing and breathability of outdoor garments, this cleaner effectively removes dirt, grime, and residues without compromising the integrity of the fabric. Its gentle yet potent action ensures a thorough clean, and it is free from any harsh chemicals that might harm the waterproof membranes.
Price: 0.00$
Brand Name | Product Type
Brand Name | Product Type
Grangers Concentrated Performance Cleaner stands out as an excellent choice for cleaning rain jackets due to its exceptional formula tailored for technical fabrics. Specifically designed to maintain the waterproofing and breathability of outdoor garments, this cleaner effectively removes dirt, grime, and residues without compromising the integrity of the fabric. Its gentle yet potent action ensures a thorough clean, and it is free from any harsh chemicals that might harm the waterproof membranes.
Price: 0.00$
cleaning steps explained
Spot and Stain Cleaning
The first thing to do is give it a quick once over. You never want to put a piece of clothing in the washer if there are untouched stains on it. Don’t hesitate to use a brush and technical soap to remove noticeable stains like dirt and wine (#afterski) before throwing it in the wash.
Machine Washing
For optimal results, choose a front-loading washing machine. To avoid friction and potential damage, wash the jacket separately from other items. Opt for a gentle cycle with cold water, using a mild liquid detergent designed for technical fabrics. Remember to steer clear of fabric softeners, bleach, or powdered detergents.
Ensure thorough removal of detergent by running an extra rinse cycle. Proper rinsing is crucial as soap residue can negatively impact the jacket’s performance, so take care to rinse it well.
Hand washing
When hand washing your jacket, follow these steps for proper care. Fill a basin with cold water and add the detergent. Submerge the jacket and gently agitate the water to distribute the detergent. Gently scrub any soiled areas with a soft brush.
Rinse thoroughly in cold water until all detergent is removed. Avoid wringing or twisting the jacket to remove excess water, as this could cause damage. Instead, gently press the water out or pat the jacket with a clean towel.
Drying after Cleaning
Here, you have to be careful. Heat is meant to help reactivate water-resistant treatments, but too much heat can ruin the fabric. Always read the tag instructions carefully before doing anything. If it’s not clear, let the jacket dry on low for 20 minutes, and then hang it.
How To Re-Waterproof Your Jacket
In some cases, a quick wash is all you need to restore the water-repellency of your jacket. Over time the “good as new” effect of the washing machine will wear off, at which point it’s time to bring in extra reinforcements. Using the Grangers Performance Repel Plus Waterproofing treatment, you can restore your jacket to its former glory. The quick and easy process works by leaving a water-repellent treatment on each individual fibre, so the jacket is protected while remaining breathable.
Grangers Performance Repel Plus Waterproofing stands as a top-tier choice for enhancing and renewing the waterproof capabilities of rain jackets. Tailored to meet the demands of technical fabrics, this product effectively restores the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating that shields against moisture. Its advanced formulation ensures an even and durable application, bolstering the jacket's resistance to water without affecting breathability. Grangers Performance Repel Plus Waterproofing is a reliable option to extend the life and performance of rain jackets, making it a standout choice for those seeking to maintain their outdoor gear at its best.
Price: 0.00$
Brand Name | Product Type
Brand Name | Product Type
Grangers Performance Repel Plus Waterproofing stands as a top-tier choice for enhancing and renewing the waterproof capabilities of rain jackets. Tailored to meet the demands of technical fabrics, this product effectively restores the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating that shields against moisture. Its advanced formulation ensures an even and durable application, bolstering the jacket's resistance to water without affecting breathability. Grangers Performance Repel Plus Waterproofing is a reliable option to extend the life and performance of rain jackets, making it a standout choice for those seeking to maintain their outdoor gear at its best.
Price: 0.00$
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