Looking after your waterproof clothing is essential if you want it to perform well season after season. With the right care routine, you can maintain breathability, restore water repellency and extend the lifespan of jackets, trousers and outdoor kit. This guide walks you through each step, from preparation to washing, drying and reproofing.
Before you begin, take a few minutes to prepare your garments properly. Empty all pockets and fasten every zip, button, Velcro strip and buckle. Loosen drawcords and elasticated areas so the fabric can move freely.
It’s also important to remove residue from your washing machine—run an empty rinse cycle to clear out leftover detergent or softener, as these can damage waterproof coatings.
To preserve the waterproof membrane, wash no more than two items at a time. Always use a specialist technical cleaner rather than standard detergent, which can clog the fabric and strip its protective coating.
Choose a delicate or gentle cycle at 30∘C, and if your machine allows, add an extra rinse to remove any remaining cleaner.
Drying waterproofs correctly is vital, as heat reactivates the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. If the care label permits, tumble-dry on low for 20–30 minutes.
If tumble-drying isn’t suitable, hang the garment to air-dry away from direct sunlight or heaters. Once dry, you can reactivate DWR by carefully ironing on low heat with a cloth barrier, or by gently warming the surface with a hairdryer.
If your waterproofs are heavily used or no longer bead water effectively, reproofing is essential. Apply a waterproofing spray while the garment is still damp, following the product instructions closely. This ensures even coverage and helps restore water resistance.
Reproofing keeps your kit performing as it should, especially during wet or muddy seasons.
Caring for your waterproofs doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few simple steps can keep them clean, breathable and weather-ready. By preparing garments properly, washing with technical cleaners, drying with care and reproofing when needed, you’ll extend the life of your outdoor gear and ensure it performs exactly as it should, no matter the conditions.
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