Washing a tech jacket properly is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. The key is to use gentle methods, appropriate water temperatures, and specific settings to protect the specialized fabrics and treatments.
Preparing Your Tech Jacket for Washing
Before placing your tech jacket in the washing machine, a few preparation steps can prevent damage and ensure a thorough clean.
- Empty Pockets: Check all pockets for forgotten items like tissues, coins, or keys, which can damage the jacket or the washing machine.
- Close Zippers and Fasteners: To prevent snagging and damage during the wash cycle, always close all zippers, Velcro fasteners, and snaps. This includes main zippers, pocket zippers, and underarm vents.
- Loosen Cinch Cords: Loosen any elastic drawcords around the hood or hem to allow for better cleaning and prevent uneven drying.
- Brush Off Loose Debris: If your jacket has visible mud, dirt, or debris, gently brush it off before washing to prevent it from spreading.
Washing Your Tech Jacket: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps for an effective and safe wash:
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Choose the Right Detergent:
- Avoid conventional powder or liquid detergents, fabric softeners, and bleach. These can clog the pores of waterproof/breathable membranes and strip the durable water repellent (DWR) finish.
- Opt for a technical wash designed for waterproof and breathable fabrics, such as Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger's Performance Wash.
- If a specialized wash is unavailable, a small amount of a mild, scent-free, non-detergent soap (like pure soap flakes) can be used, but always check the jacket's care label first.
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Select the Proper Cycle and Temperature:
- Always use the delicate or hand-wash cycle on your washing machine. These cycles are designed to be gentle on sensitive fabrics.
- Wash in warm water, not hot. Hot water can damage the fabric's integrity and DWR coating. Cold water is also an option if you prefer.
- Avoid washing tech jackets with other heavily soiled items or cotton, as lint can stick to the technical fabric.
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Load the Machine:
- Wash your tech jacket alone or with similar technical garments.
- Do not overload the washing machine, as this can prevent proper cleaning and rinsing.
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Rinse Thoroughly:
- Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residues are completely removed. Residual soap can attract water and compromise the jacket's water repellency.
Drying Your Tech Jacket
Proper drying is just as important as washing for maintaining your jacket's performance, especially its DWR finish.
- Tumble Dry on Low Heat: When it's time to dry, use a delicate cycle on low heat. The heat can help reactivate the existing DWR finish on your jacket.
- Air Dry Option: If you prefer to avoid the dryer or if your jacket's care label advises against tumble drying, hang it to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Ensure it's completely dry before storing.
- Avoid High Heat: Never use high heat, as it can damage the specialized membranes and fabric coatings.
Restoring Water Repellency (DWR)
Over time, the DWR finish on your tech jacket will wear off, causing the fabric to "wet out" (absorb water rather than bead it up).
- Test DWR: Sprinkle some water on your clean, dry jacket. If the water beads up, the DWR is still effective. If it soaks in, it's time to re-treat.
- Apply a DWR Treatment: Use a wash-in or spray-on DWR product, such as Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In or a spray-on equivalent, following the product instructions carefully. Often, gentle heat from a tumble dryer can help bond the new DWR to the fabric.
Quick Care Summary
Here’s a concise guide to washing your tech jacket:
| Feature | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Empty pockets, close zippers/fasteners, loosen cords, brush off debris. |
| Detergent | Specialized technical wash (e.g., Nikwax Tech Wash), or mild, scent-free soap. |
| Water Temp. | Warm water (not hot), or cold. |
| Wash Cycle | Delicate or hand-wash cycle. |
| Rinse | Extra rinse cycle recommended. |
| Drying | Tumble dry on low heat (delicate cycle) to reactivate DWR, or air dry. |
| Avoid | Hot water, fabric softener, bleach, conventional detergents, high heat drying. |
| DWR Re-treatment | Apply specialized DWR product when water no longer beads on the fabric surface. |
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your tech jacket remains clean, functional, and ready for your next adventure.
