Dirt, salt water, sun cream and sweat build up in waterproofs over the course of the season. This primarily impairs the breathability of the membrane, meaning that moisture can no longer be wicked away, and you end up sweating more. Nevertheless, many sailors rarely wash their technical clothing, either because they are unsure or because of the mistaken belief that washing would damage it. The opposite is true: soiled waterproofs lose their breathability. Manufacturers such as Musto, Helly Hansen and Gill recommend regular washing – even after every contact with salt water. The key question is not whether, but how.
Washing waterproofs: 30 degrees and the right detergent
Waterproof clothing should be washed in the washing machine at 30 degrees on a gentle cycle. Standard heavy-duty washing powder is unsuitable, as it contains softeners, bleach or optical brighteners that can damage the membrane. Instead, a specialised functional detergent should be used. Manufacturers such as Nikwax, Grangers and Toko offer products that are specifically designed for Gore-Tex and other membranes. These detergents clean thoroughly without damaging the DWR (Durable Water Repellency) coating – the water-repellent treatment that ensures water beads up and rolls off.
Before washing, close all zips and fasten all Velcro fastenings. This protects the fastenings and prevents damage. Turn the clothes inside out to protect the outer coating. Spinning is permitted, but only at a low speed of no more than 800 revolutions per minute. Fabric softener is strictly forbidden. It forms a film on the membrane, clogs the pores and destroys the fabric’s breathability. Aggressive stain removers should also be avoided.
Drying and reactivating the waterproofing treatment
After washing, waterproofs can be left to air-dry, ideally in the shade, as UV radiation damages the material. Whether jackets and trousers can be put in the tumble dryer depends on the manufacturer’s care instructions. If in doubt, it’s best not to, as excessively high temperatures can damage the membrane and the bonded seams. However, some manufacturers do recommend using the tumble dryer on a low heat setting. The reason is that heat reactivates the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. The heat causes the water-repellent treatment to redistribute evenly across the fabric, allowing water to bead off more effectively. Around 20 minutes on a low setting is sufficient.
If water no longer beads off properly despite washing and drying, the DWR coating has worn off. In this case, re-water-repellent treatment will help. Water-repellent sprays or wash-in treatments will renew the coating. Important: The clothing must be clean before waterproofing. Dirt prevents the waterproofing from being distributed evenly. After waterproofing, the clothing should be put back in the tumble dryer.
Storing waterproofs: in a dry, dark place
At the end of the season, waterproof clothing should be stored in a clean, dry place. Damp encourages mould, which can damage the coating or membrane. The clothing should be hung up in a cool, dark place, rather than folded. Direct sunlight should also be avoided.
If you look after your oilskins properly, you’ll significantly extend their lifespan. Regular washing keeps the membrane breathable, occasional re-waterproofing ensures good water-repellency, and prompt repairs prevent more serious damage. Investing in high-quality waterproofs therefore pays off over the years – and you’ll stay dry and comfortable, no matter how bad the weather is.
Care tips at a glance:
Washing:
- 30 degrees, gentle wash cycle
- Use a specialised detergent
- No fabric softener
- No bleach or stain removers
- Do up the zips
- Max. 800 revolutions per minute spin cycle
Drying:
- Air-drying in the shade or
- Tumble dry at a low temperature (20 mins)
- Heat reactivates the DWR coating
Waterproofing:
- If the water-repellent effect begins to diminish
- Only on clean clothes
- Spray or wash-in impregnation
- Heat after impregnation
Storage:
- Clean and dry
- Hanging, not folded
- Cool and dark
- No direct sunlight
Further articles on this topic:
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik