Owning a technical waterproof jacket is an investment in comfort and protection. To maintain its performance, particularly its Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating and breathability, proper washing is crucial. Many believe washing damages these jackets, but it’s often the opposite: dirt, body oils, and residues can clog the membrane, reducing its effectiveness. Regular cleaning can restore breathability and refresh DWR performance, making your jacket last longer and perform better.

Understanding Your Jacket’s Needs

Your technical waterproof jacket relies on two key components: a waterproof/breathable membrane (like Gore-Tex, eVent, or your brand’s proprietary tech) and a DWR coating on the outer fabric. The DWR causes water to bead up and roll off, preventing the outer fabric from saturating, which allows the membrane to breathe effectively. When the DWR fails, the fabric “wets out,” making the jacket feel clammy and less breathable, even if the membrane is still intact.

Common Washing Mistakes to Avoid

• Regular Detergents: Standard laundry detergents often contain surfactants, brighteners, and fabric softeners that can strip DWR and clog the jacket’s membrane, hindering its breathability.
• Fabric Softeners: These are a definite no-go as they destroy DWR and can compromise membrane performance.
• Bleach: Harsh chemicals like bleach can permanently damage waterproof membranes and fabrics.
• Dry Cleaning: The solvents used in dry cleaning are typically too harsh for technical fabrics and their delicate coatings.

Preparation is Key

Before washing, take these important steps:

1. Empty Pockets: Ensure all pockets are completely empty.
2. Close Zippers and Fasteners: Zip up all main zippers, pit zips, and pockets. Secure any flaps or hook-and-loop (velcro) straps.
3. Loosen Cinch Cords: Release any elastic drawcords.
4. Check Care Label: Always consult your jacket’s specific care label for any brand-specific instructions.
5. Pre-treat Stains: For stubborn stains, gently pre-treat with a small amount of a technical cleaner or even just water, scrubbing lightly with a soft brush.

The Safest Washing Method (Machine Wash)

For most modern technical waterproof jackets, machine washing is recommended and often the most effective way to clean and revitalize them.

1. Load the Machine: Place one or two similar items (e.g., another waterproof jacket or rain pants) in the washing machine. Avoid overloading.
2. Use Specialized Cleaner: Dispense a technical wash specifically designed for waterproof breathable fabrics (e.g., Nikwax Tech Wash, Grangers Performance Wash) into the detergent dispenser. Follow the product’s instructions for the correct amount.
3. Select Cycle: Choose a gentle cycle (delicate, permanent press, or outerwear) with cold or warm water (never hot). Ensure an extra rinse cycle is selected to remove all detergent residue.
4. Spin Cycle: Use a low-speed spin to avoid excessive creasing and stress on the fabric.

Rinsing Thoroughly

An extra rinse cycle is crucial to ensure all cleaning agents are completely removed from the fabric. Residues can hinder the DWR and membrane performance. If your machine doesn’t have an extra rinse, you can run a second rinse cycle manually.

Drying Your Jacket

This step is vital for reactivating the DWR coating.

1. Air Dry First (Optional but Recommended): Hang your jacket to air dry completely or almost completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. This protects the fabric from excessive heat.
2. Tumble Dry (Low Heat): Once mostly dry (or if you skip air drying, directly from the washer), place the jacket in a tumble dryer on a low heat setting for about 20-30 minutes. The gentle heat helps to reactivate the DWR coating. You may need to tumble dry for longer if the jacket is still quite damp. Avoid high heat, as it can damage the membrane and taped seams.

Reactivating DWR and Reproofing

If, after washing and tumble drying, water no longer beads up effectively on the outer fabric (it “wets out”), it’s time to reproof the jacket.

• Spray-on DWR: Apply a DWR spray (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On, Grangers Performance Repel Plus) evenly to the clean, damp outer fabric. Allow it to soak in for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess.
• Wash-in DWR: Some products can be added to the wash cycle after cleaning, but spray-ons often provide more targeted application and are generally preferred for Gore-Tex and similar laminates to avoid coating the inner membrane.

Follow the specific product instructions for application and subsequent heat treatment (usually tumble drying on low heat) to bond the DWR.

Hand Washing (Alternative)

If machine washing isn’t an option or you prefer a gentler approach:

1. Fill a Basin: Fill a clean sink or tub with lukewarm water.
2. Add Cleaner: Add the recommended amount of technical cleaner.
3. Submerge and Soak: Submerge the jacket and let it soak for 10-15 minutes, gently agitating.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and rinse the jacket thoroughly under cool, running water until no suds remain. Gently squeeze out excess water. Do not wring.
5. Dry: Follow the drying instructions for tumble drying on low heat to reactivate DWR.

Conclusion

Regular and correct washing is not just about keeping your technical waterproof jacket clean; it’s about maintaining its peak performance and extending its lifespan. By using specialized cleaners, avoiding harsh chemicals, and properly drying and reactivating its DWR, you ensure your jacket continues to protect you from the elements effectively for years to come. Your gear works hard for you – taking care of it ensures it can keep doing so.