Outdoor clothing designed to keep wearers dry often loses its effectiveness over time. This decline in performance can lead to discomfort for the end-user and potential issues for retailers, including dissatisfaction. Understanding proper care is essential for maintaining the integrity and prolonging the life of waterproof garments, ultimately supporting customer satisfaction.
Understanding Waterproof Technology
Most waterproof outdoor clothing relies on a combination of technologies to keep the wearer dry. Typically, this involves an outer fabric treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish and an underlying waterproof-breathable membrane or coating.
The DWR finish is the first line of defence. It causes water to bead up and roll off the fabric surface, preventing it from saturating the outer layer. This allows the garment to breathe effectively, as moisture from inside can still escape through the membrane. Common examples include waterproof jackets and trousers, which are designed to offer protection in various conditions.
Beneath the DWR, a waterproof membrane (such as those made from PTFE or PU) or a coating acts as the primary barrier, preventing water ingress while allowing water vapour (perspiration) to escape. If the DWR fails, the outer fabric can ‘wet out’, meaning it becomes saturated with water. When this happens, the garment feels heavier, colder, and can appear to leak, even if the membrane itself is still intact. This ‘wetting out’ significantly reduces the garment’s breathability, leading to internal condensation and a feeling of dampness.
Why and When to Clean Your Waterproofs
Dirt, body oils, sweat, insect repellents, and even smoke can all compromise the DWR treatment on waterproof clothing. These contaminants attract water, preventing it from beading up and causing the outer fabric to wet out. Regular cleaning is not just about hygiene; it’s a critical step in maintaining the performance of the DWR and the overall breathability of the garment.
Neglecting cleaning can lead to a perceived failure of the waterproof barrier, even when the underlying membrane is still functional. For items like hiking trousers or a robust rain jacket, frequent exposure to the elements means they will require more regular attention.
So, how do you know when it’s time to clean a waterproof garment?
- Water Absorption: If water no longer beads up and rolls off the fabric but instead soaks in, it’s time for a wash. This is the clearest sign the DWR is compromised.
- Visual Dirt: Obvious mud, grime, or stains on the fabric surface.
- Reduced Breathability: If you notice increased condensation inside the garment during use, even in conditions where it previously performed well.
- Odour: Unpleasant smells indicate a build-up of sweat and bacteria.
- Loss of Loft: For insulated waterproofs, a flattened appearance can suggest dirt is compacting the insulation.
Cleaning Your Waterproof Clothing Correctly
Correct cleaning is crucial to avoid damaging the waterproof membrane and to prepare the DWR for reactivation or reproofing. Always check the garment’s care label first, as instructions can vary.
Preparation
Before washing, ensure all zips are closed, and any Velcro fastenings are secured to prevent snags. Empty all pockets. If there are heavily soiled areas, a soft brush and water can be used for a gentle pre-clean.
Detergent Choice
Standard laundry detergents can leave residues that attract water, hindering DWR performance. It is recommended to use a technical cleaner specifically designed for waterproof breathable fabrics. These cleaners rinse out completely, leaving no residues that could impair the fabric’s function. Avoid fabric softeners entirely, as they can permanently damage the membrane and DWR.
Washing Machine Method
- Load one or two garments into the washing machine. Overloading can prevent thorough cleaning and rinsing.
- Add the recommended amount of technical cleaner to the detergent dispenser.
- Select a gentle wash cycle (e.g., delicate, outdoor, or synthetic cycle) at a cool temperature (typically 30°C).
- Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed.
- If possible, run a spin cycle on a low setting to remove excess water.
Drying
After washing, tumble drying on a low heat setting can often reactivate the DWR finish. The heat encourages the DWR polymers to realign, restoring some of their water-repellent properties. If tumble drying is not an option, air dry the garment completely away from direct sunlight. Once dry, you can sometimes use a cool iron (with a cloth between the iron and the fabric) or a hairdryer on a low setting to help reactivate the DWR.
Reproofing: Restoring Water Repellency
Even with regular cleaning and heat activation, the DWR treatment will eventually wear off, especially in high-wear areas like shoulders, elbows, and seat. When cleaning and heat no longer make water bead effectively, it’s time to reproof the garment.
There are two main types of reproofing products: wash-in and spray-on.
- Wash-in Reproofers: These are added to the washing machine cycle, much like a technical cleaner. They treat the entire garment, inside and out. While convenient, they can sometimes reduce the breathability of inner linings or wicking layers if not intended to be waterproofed.
- Spray-on Reproofers: Applied to the clean, damp outer fabric of the garment. This method allows for targeted application to areas that need it most and avoids treating inner linings. It often provides a more durable finish on the outer fabric.
Applying Reproofer
Whether you choose a wash-in or spray-on product, always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions. Generally:
- Ensure the garment is clean. It’s best to reproof immediately after washing while the garment is still damp for many spray-on products, though some recommend dry application.
- For spray-on products, hang the garment and spray evenly over the outer surface from about 10-15 centimetres (4-6 inches) away. Pay particular attention to high-wear areas. Wipe off any excess drips with a clean cloth.
- For wash-in products, follow the instructions for adding to the machine’s detergent drawer and selecting the appropriate cycle.
- Allow the garment to dry completely. Many reproofers require heat activation to cure the DWR properly. Tumble drying on a low to medium heat setting for 20-30 minutes is often recommended. If tumble drying is not possible, air drying followed by a gentle iron or hairdryer can help.
With proper care, waterproof clothing, which ranges from approximately £1.58 to £44.00 for our current stock, can offer excellent value and performance over many seasons.
Storage and Minor Repairs
Proper storage helps maintain the condition and effectiveness of waterproof clothing between uses.
Storing Your Waterproofs
Always ensure garments are completely clean and dry before storing them. Storing damp clothing can lead to mildew, mould, and damage to the fabric and membrane.
- Hang: Store waterproof jackets and trousers on a wide hanger in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space. Avoid compressing them in a stuff sack or drawer for long periods, as this can crease and stress the membrane.
- Avoid Heat and Sunlight: Direct sunlight and excessive heat can degrade DWR treatments and membranes over time.
- Keep Away from Chemicals: Store away from harsh chemicals, solvents, or fuel, which can damage technical fabrics.
Minor Repairs
Small tears, punctures, or snags can compromise the waterproof integrity of a garment. Addressing these promptly can significantly extend its life. Products like Stormsure TUFF Tape or other dedicated repair patches are effective for fixing minor damage. These patches are typically self-adhesive and create a strong, waterproof seal.
- Clean and Dry: Ensure the damaged area is clean and completely dry before applying a patch.
- Trim Edges: If the tear has frayed edges, trim them neatly.
- Apply Patch: Cut the repair patch to size, ensuring it overlaps the tear by at least 2-3 centimetres (about 1 inch) on all sides. Round the corners of the patch to prevent peeling. Apply firmly, pressing out any air bubbles.
- Cure Time: Allow the adhesive to cure fully as per the patch manufacturer’s instructions before using the garment.
Encouraging customers to repair rather than replace not only extends product life but also promotes more sustainable practices.
Advice for Your Customers
As a retailer, you are a key source of information for your customers. Providing clear, concise advice on waterproof clothing care can enhance their product satisfaction and build trust.
Consider these points:
- Emphasise that proper care is an investment in the garment’s longevity and performance.
- Recommend using specialist cleaners and reproofers, explaining why household detergents are unsuitable.
- Advise on the signs that a garment needs cleaning or reproofing.
- Explain the importance of heat activation for DWR.
- Suggest prompt repair of minor damage to prevent it from worsening.
By educating your customers, you empower them to get the most out of their purchases, reinforcing the value of quality outdoor gear.
The consistent and correct care of waterproof outdoor clothing is fundamental to its long-term performance. Regular cleaning, timely reproofing, and appropriate storage are not merely maintenance tasks but essential steps in preserving the functionality and extending the lifespan of these technical garments.
