Washing a rain jacket: how to clean your waterproof apparel correctly

A good raincoat achieves great things: it is windproof, waterproof and yet still breathable. To make sure it stays this way, you should be regularly washing and waterproofing your raincoat. Our tips for a spotless result.

• Can I wash a rain jacket?

  Yes, you can – and should do too! Washing your rain jacket regularly is important especially if you wear it often, as this is the only way you can be sure to get rid of dirt, grease residue and sweat. If you do not wash your rain jacket, the pores of the protective membrane will ultimately become clogged, which will impair the breathability of your jacket. As a rule of thumb: if you wear your rain jacket every day, wash it once per month.

• Washing a rain jacket: by hand or in the washing machine?

  Generally speaking, there is no reason why you cannot put your rain jacket in the washing machine. Nevertheless, choose a programme without a spin cycle or one with a brief and slow spin. If in doubt, check the care instructions on the sewn-in label. Treat the areas that are more prone to getting dirty (e.g. collar, cuffs, pockets) first of all with a soft brush and using gall soap and water before popping it into the washing machine.

  PVC/PEVA Rainwear, Rainsuit, Reliable and Durable, 0.20mm Rain Suit

  

   

• What is the best detergent to use for washing a rain jacket?

  Above all else: do NOT use an all-purpose detergent, fabric softener or bleaching agent on your rain jacket. Furthermore, liquid detergents are more suitable than powder, as the latter can clog the pores. But please be careful, even with liquid detergents: some liquid detergents contain a fabric softener. Mild detergents or ones especially geared towards outdoor functional clothing are best of all since the detergent washes out easily.

  Do not overdo the amount of detergent for washing your rain jacket. In general, it is better to wash often, using a small amount of detergent, than to wash rarely and use a lot of detergent.

• Washing a rain jacket: step-by-step guide

  Most waterproof jackets can be washed in the machine at 30 degrees. Please read the instructions in the care label first of all.

  Easy steps to washing your rain jacket:

  • Pretreat those areas of the jacket that are prone to getting dirty with a soft brush and gall soap.
  • Fasten all zips and Velcro fastenings, then put the jacket into the washing machine.
  • Select a wash programme for delicates.
  • Select the temperature depending on the membrane – 30 to 40 degrees – as long as nothing else is stated on the care label.
  • Use a liquid detergent for outdoor functional clothing and follow the instructions.
  • Rinse the jacket several times with fresh water, in order to remove any detergent that is still in the material.
  • Then hang out your jacket to dry naturally.