How to Wash Waterproof and Water-Repellent Outdoor Clothing

Washing waterproof and water-repellent outdoor clothing requires special care to preserve the waterproof membrane and durable water repellent (DWR) finish. The short answer: use a technical clothing wash, not ordinary laundry detergent, on a gentle cycle with low spin, then either air dry or tumble dry on low to reactivate the DWR. Re-apply a DWR treatment when water no longer beads on the fabric. Below we explain each step, the trade-offs of different methods, and how to adapt them to your budget, schedule, and weather.

Why Ordinary Detergent Damages Waterproof Clothing

Ordinary laundry detergents contain surfactants and enzymes designed to break down oils and dirt, but they leave residues that clog the microporous waterproof membranes and strip away the DWR finish. These residues reduce breathability and cause water to soak into the face fabric instead of beading. Even "free and clear" detergents can leave fabric softeners or brighteners that harm technical fabrics. Therefore, always avoid normal detergent for waterproof items. Instead, use a cleaner specifically formulated for technical clothing, such as Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Wash. These products clean gently, rinse cleanly, and often revitalize the DWR.

How to Wash Waterproof Clothing in a Washing Machine

Washing machine waterproof clothing is safe if you follow these steps:

1. Read the care labels. Check for temperature limits, cycle restrictions, and special instructions. Most waterproof garments can be washed at 30°C (86°F) on a gentle or synthetic cycle.
2. Close all zippers, flaps, and hook-and-loop fasteners. This prevents snagging and damage to other items.
3. Empty pockets and brush off loose dirt. For heavily soiled areas, pre-treat with a small amount of technical wash.
4. Use a technical clothing wash. Add the recommended amount to the detergent compartment. Never use ordinary detergent, fabric softener, or bleach.
5. Select a gentle cycle with low spin speed. High spin can stress seams and damage the membrane. Use an extra rinse cycle if your machine allows, to ensure all cleaner is removed.
6. Wash only waterproof items together or wash the garment alone. Mixing with other fabrics can cause abrasion or transfer of residues.

If you don't have a technical wash on hand, you can use a small amount of mild pure soap (not detergent) as a short-term solution, but rinse thoroughly. However, soap may also leave some residue, so it's best to invest in a proper cleaner.

Washing Waterproof Jackets and Trousers: Specific Considerations

Washing a waterproof jacket and washing waterproof trousers follow the same general process, but trousers often have more ground-in dirt at the knees and seat. Pre-treat these areas with a soft brush and diluted technical wash. For jackets, pay attention to the hood, collar, and cuffs, which collect body oils. These oils can degrade the membrane over time, so regular washing is important—every 20-30 days of use or when dirt is visible.

Hand Washing as an Alternative

If you're concerned about machine wear or have a delicate item, hand washing is a viable option. Fill a clean basin with lukewarm water and add technical wash. Submerge the garment, gently agitate, and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until no suds remain. Do not wring or twist; press out excess water gently. Hand washing is more time-consuming but reduces mechanical stress.

Drying and Reactivating the DWR

Proper drying is crucial for waterproof clothing. After washing, you can either air dry or tumble dry, depending on the garment's care label and your schedule.

• Air drying: Hang the garment on a non-metal hanger in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. This is gentle but does not reactivate the DWR. You may need to apply heat separately with an iron on a low setting (with a cloth between) or a hairdryer to restore water beading.
• Tumble drying: Many technical garments can be tumble dried on low or medium heat. The heat helps to redistribute the DWR treatment and restore its repellency. Check the care label first; some membranes are heat-sensitive. Tumble drying is quicker and often improves performance, but may slightly reduce the lifespan of the garment over time.

If water no longer beads on the surface after drying, it's time to re-apply a DWR treatment. You can use a wash-in or spray-on product. Wash-in DWR is added during the rinse cycle; spray-on is applied to the clean, damp garment and then heat-activated. Reproofing is necessary after many washes or when the original DWR wears off.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products: Budget and Options

For budget-conscious users, a concentrated technical wash lasts many washes and is cheaper in the long run than replacing damaged gear. If you have multiple waterproof items, a larger bottle reduces cost per wash. Some generic outdoor cleaners are available at lower prices, but check that they are free of fragrances and optical brighteners.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using ordinary detergent or fabric softener. These clog membranes and destroy DWR.
• High heat washing or drying. Can delaminate membranes or melt taped seams.
• Skipping the rinse cycle. Leftover cleaner can attract dirt and reduce breathability.
• Ignoring dirt build-up. Dirt can wick moisture and block membrane pores, so wash regularly.
• Not reactivating DWR. Without heat, the DWR may not work even after proper washing.

By following these guidelines, you can keep your waterproof and water-repellent outdoor clothing performing well for years, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable on every adventure.