How to Wash and Maintain Waterproof Clothing
Washing and maintaining waterproof clothing properly is crucial for preserving its waterproofing, breathability, and durability. Waterproof garments often feature a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating and waterproof membranes (like Gore-Tex, eVent, or H2No). Over time, dirt, sweat, and regular detergents can degrade these protective features, reducing performance.
Follow this guide to clean, dry, and reproof your waterproof gear the right way.
Before You Wash: Important Tips
Check the Care Label – Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Avoid Regular Laundry Detergents & Fabric Softeners – These can damage waterproof coatings and membranes.
Wash Separately – Never wash waterproof gear with other clothing, especially those with lint (e.g., towels).
Use a Front-Loading Machine – If available, as top-loading machines with agitators can be too harsh.
Avoid Regular Laundry Detergents & Fabric Softeners – These can damage waterproof coatings and membranes.
Wash Separately – Never wash waterproof gear with other clothing, especially those with lint (e.g., towels).
Use a Front-Loading Machine – If available, as top-loading machines with agitators can be too harsh.
What You’ll Need:
Mild liquid detergent (or a technical wash like Nikwax Tech Wash, Grangers Performance Wash, or Gear Aid Revivex)
A front-loading washing machine (or a large basin for handwashing)
Soft brush or cloth (to remove dirt before washing)
Clean water
A dryer or clothesline (depending on care instructions)
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Waterproof Clothing
Prep Your Gear
Empty pockets – Remove items like tissues, money, or electronics.
Close all zippers & fasteners – Prevents snagging and maintains the garment’s shape.
Shake off dirt & debris – Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dried mud or dust.
Choose the Right Detergent
Use a detergent designed for waterproof gear – Standard detergents leave residues that clog waterproof membranes.
Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, or stain removers – They strip the DWR finish and damage fabric integrity.
Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, or stain removers – They strip the DWR finish and damage fabric integrity.
Wash the Clothing
Machine Washing (Best Option):
Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water (not hot).
Run an empty wash cycle beforehand (hot water, no detergent) to clear old detergent residue.
Add technical detergent per instructions on the bottle.
Wash no more than 2 waterproof garments at a time.
Hand Washing (Alternative Option):
Fill a large basin or sink with cold water.
Add specialized detergent, agitate the water, and let the garment soak for 10-15 minutes.
Gently rub dirty areas with a soft cloth or brush.
Rinse thoroughly until all detergent is removed.
Rinse Thoroughly
Run an extra rinse cycle if using a washing machine.
Ensure no soap suds remain—residue can block waterproof membranes.
Ensure no soap suds remain—residue can block waterproof membranes.
Dry Properly
Check the garment label – Some waterproof clothing can be tumble-dried, while others require air drying.
If Tumble Drying:
Use a low heat setting (delicate).
Adding clean tennis balls or dryer balls can help redistribute insulation and reactivate DWR coatings.
If Air Drying:
Hang on a clothesline or hanger in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, or radiators, which can weaken waterproof coatings.
When & How to Reproof Waterproof Clothing
Over time, waterproof clothing loses its water-repelling ability, causing the fabric to absorb water instead of beading off. You don’t need to reproof after every wash, but if you notice wetting out (fabric darkens and soaks up moisture), it’s time to reapply the DWR treatment.
How to Tell If Your Clothing Needs Reproofing
Water is absorbed into the fabric instead of beading off.
Clothing feels damp inside even when not sweating.
You notice a decrease in breathability or wind resistance.
Clothing feels damp inside even when not sweating.
You notice a decrease in breathability or wind resistance.
Types of Waterproofing Treatments
Wash-In Waterproofer (Best for overall coverage)
Spray-On Waterproofer (Best for targeted areas like high-wear zones)
Spray-On Waterproofer (Best for targeted areas like high-wear zones)
How to Apply a Waterproofing Treatment
Wash the Clothing First
Dirt and oils clog breathable membranes, so always wash before reproofing.
Choose a Waterproofing Method
Wash-In Treatment (Full Coverage)
Add wash-in waterproofing solution (like Nikwax TX.Direct or Grangers Repel) to the washing machine.
Run a gentle wash cycle with warm water.
Rinse thoroughly and tumble dry on low heat to activate the waterproof coating.
Spray-On Treatment (Targeted Areas)​
​Hang the garment in a well-ventilated area.
Spray evenly from 15-20 cm away.
Apply extra coats to high-wear areas (shoulders, elbows, knees).
Wipe off excess product with a damp cloth.
Let air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
Extra Tips for Maintaining Waterproof Gear
Wash only when necessary – Overwashing can break down DWR coatings faster.
Store properly – Keep in a cool, dry place, avoiding compression to maintain fabric integrity.
Avoid using ironing, direct heat, or dry cleaning, which can damage waterproof membranes.
Refresh DWR every few months if frequently exposed to rain or harsh conditions.
Store properly – Keep in a cool, dry place, avoiding compression to maintain fabric integrity.
Avoid using ironing, direct heat, or dry cleaning, which can damage waterproof membranes.
Refresh DWR every few months if frequently exposed to rain or harsh conditions.
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By caring for your waterproof clothing correctly, you’ll extend its lifespan, stay dry, and get the most out of your outdoor adventures—rain or shine!
