To wash a North Face rain jacket, prepare it by zipping all zippers and closing all Velcro® fasteners, then machine wash on a gentle cycle using a liquid detergent specifically designed for waterproof and technical gear, followed by a low-heat tumble dry or air dry.
Maintaining your North Face rain jacket properly is crucial for preserving its waterproof capabilities and extending its lifespan. Following these steps will help ensure your jacket continues to protect you from the elements.
Step-by-Step Washing Guide
Washing your rain jacket might seem daunting, but it's a straightforward process when you know the correct method.
1. Preparation is Key
Before placing your jacket in the washing machine, take a few essential steps to protect its integrity and ensure a thorough cleaning.
- Empty Pockets: Check and remove everything from all pockets.
- Secure Openings: Be sure to zip all zippers, and close all Velcro® fasteners (cuffs, front flap, pockets) to prevent snags and damage during the wash cycle.
- Loosen Cinch Cords: Loosen any elastic drawcords around the hood or hem.
- Turn Inside Out (Optional but Recommended): Some recommend turning the jacket inside out to protect the outer DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating, especially if you have sensitive machine agitators.
2. Washing Instructions
The right detergent and machine settings are vital for effective cleaning without compromising the jacket's technical properties.
- Choose the Right Detergent: For best results, use a liquid detergent that's made for waterproof and technical gear. These specialized detergents are formulated to clean without leaving residues that can impair the jacket's breathability and water repellency.
- Crucially, do not use powder detergents, fabric softener, or chlorine bleach. Powder detergents can leave residues that clog the membrane, while fabric softener can strip away the DWR finish and block the fabric's pores, reducing its ability to repel water and breathe. Chlorine bleach will damage the fabric and waterproof membrane irreversibly.
- Machine Settings:
- Place the jacket (and any other similar technical gear, if washing together) into the washing machine.
- Select a gentle cycle (often labeled "delicates" or "hand wash").
- Use warm water (typically 30°C/86°F), unless your jacket's care tag specifies otherwise. Avoid hot water, which can damage the membrane.
- Consider adding an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is thoroughly washed out, preventing residue buildup.
3. Drying Your Rain Jacket
Proper drying is essential, not just for removing moisture but also for reactivating the jacket's DWR coating.
- Gentle Tumble Dry: For best results and DWR reactivation, tumble dry on a low heat setting. The heat helps to reactivate the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating on the jacket's exterior, restoring its ability to bead water.
- Air Dry Alternative: If you prefer not to tumble dry, or if your jacket's care tag advises against it, you can air dry your jacket. Hang it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or excessive heat. While air drying is safe, it won't reactivate the DWR as effectively as low heat tumble drying.
- Check for Dryness: Ensure the jacket is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew or odors. This might take several hours for air drying.
Why Specific Detergents Matter
Regular detergents, especially powder forms, can leave residues that attract water and reduce the effectiveness of the jacket's waterproof and breathable membrane. Fabric softeners are particularly damaging as they clog the pores of the fabric, preventing moisture vapor from escaping and water droplets from beading up on the surface. Specialized technical wash products, like those from Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger's Performance Wash, are designed to clean effectively while preserving the fabric's technical properties.
Quick Reference: Do's and Don'ts
| Action | Do | Don't |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Zip all zippers, close Velcro, empty pockets | Leave zippers open, pockets full |
| Detergent | Use liquid detergent for waterproof/technical gear | Use powder detergents, fabric softener, or chlorine bleach |
| Wash Cycle | Gentle cycle, warm water (check tag), extra rinse | Hot water, harsh cycles, harsh chemicals |
| Drying | Tumble dry on low heat to reactivate DWR, or air dry | High heat drying, direct sunlight for extended periods |
| Re-Proofing | Consider DWR re-application if water no longer beads (e.g., Revivex) | Ignore loss of water repellency |
Important Considerations for Longevity
- Read the Care Tag: Always refer to the specific care instructions on your individual North Face jacket's label, as recommendations can vary slightly by model and material.
- DWR Re-application: Over time, even with proper washing, the DWR coating will wear off. If water starts soaking into the fabric rather than beading up, it's time to re-apply a DWR treatment. These are available as spray-on or wash-in products.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor dirt or stains, try spot cleaning with a damp cloth and a small amount of specialized technical detergent before a full wash.
Following these guidelines will help maintain the performance and extend the life of your North Face rain jacket, ensuring it remains your trusted companion in all weather conditions.
