Gore-Tex is the best of the best when it comes to outerwear performance. The tech behind Gore-Tex can seem like it would be sensitive to wash, but cleaning Gore-Tex is not as hard as you might think. Being prepared for various weather conditions all comes down to owning the right gear, and when you start with Gore-Tex products, you are definitely heading in the right direction. This guide will help you stay in the right direction with clean Gore-Tex gear.
We understand that Gore-Tex comes with a steep price tag and that’s why we are here to help you understand how to better care for your Gore-Tex jackets and pants. Periodically laundering your outerwear is not only good for the looks, it actually reinvigorates the waterproofing, breathability and overall life span of the item. Washing your outerwear can seem like a big deal, but all you need is the know-how and the right detergent.
Check The Tags
Always start at the tags. Find the laundry labeled tags (see chart below) inside your jacket or pants and make sure you know exactly how that particular piece needs to be treated. Improperly laundering your outerwear can be bad news so be sure you checked these tags before you begin.
Steps For Clean Gore-Tex
Most Gore-Tex garments will instruct you to use a small amount of liquid detergent or even tech-specific wash if you like. You do not have to use outerwear specific detergents but you can if that’s what you have. Here is a step by step list to walk you through it all:
- Check the tags. Instructions vary so do not skip this step!
- Empty, then zip the pockets, main zippers, vents and secure velcro so it does not snag any of your items.
- Do not use bleach.
- Do not use fabric softeners.
- Clear out the washing machine. Stick to similar items in the washing machine only (jacket and pants, etc).
- Rinse twice so you can be sure all the detergent is off.
- After washing, save a little electricity by hanging the item to dry. If you must throw it in the dryer, opt for a warm, gentle cycle.
- Once the item is dry, put it in the dryer for 20 minutes. This step is important and will help to re-activate the DWR.
- If you can’t use a dryer at all, once the item is completely dry from hanging, grab your iron. Placing a towel between your garment and the iron, set the iron on a LOW setting with NO steam and gently iron the item. This will work the same way as the dryer to help re-activate the DWR.
More Gore-Tex Treatments and Tips
If your jacket or pants have been around for a few years, it might need a little help in the water proofing department. You can purchase a spray water repellent treatment that you can apply to your older outerwear to help keep them in business for a few more years.
Here are some other helpful tips:
- Directions can vary but generally speaking, you should avoid dry cleaning your items.
- Gore-Tex garments require a liquid detergent but many other outerwear piece that are non-Gore -Tex recommend using powder detergents. Be sure you know what your specific piece requires.
- Always opt for a mild detergent, even if your item is extra dirty a mild detergent will still do the trick.
Keeping your outerwear clean not only helps you to look your best on the mountain, it also helps keep your outerwear around for longer. Protect your Gore-Tex investment by washing regularly.