How Often Should You Wash A Rain Jacket?.
Article title: How Often Should You Wash a Rain Jacket? Everything You Need to Know
Introduction
Rain jackets are an essential piece of gear for anyone who spends time outdoors. They can keep you dry in even the wettest conditions, but only if they are properly cared for. One of the most important things you can do for your rain jacket is to wash it regularly. However, washing your rain jacket too often can actually damage it and shorten its lifespan.
So, how often should you wash a rain jacket? The answer depends on a few factors, including how often you wear it, how dirty it gets, and the type of fabric it is made from. In general, you should wash your rain jacket once a month or after every 10-15 uses. If you wear your rain jacket frequently in dirty or harsh conditions, you may need to wash it more often.
Signs that you need to wash your rain jacket:
- Water is no longer beading off the surface of the fabric. This is a sign that the durable water repellent (DWR) coating has been compromised.
- The jacket is visibly dirty or stained.
- The jacket smells sweaty or musty.
- The jacket is uncomfortable to wear.
How to wash a rain jacket:
When washing your rain jacket, it is important to use a technical cleaner designed specifically for waterproof and breathable fabrics. These cleaners are gentle on the fabric and will not damage the DWR coating. Avoid using regular laundry detergent, as it can strip the DWR coating and make your jacket less waterproof.
To wash your rain jacket, follow these steps:
- Close all zippers and pockets.
- Turn the jacket inside out.
- Wash the jacket on a gentle cycle in cold water.
- Use a technical cleaner designed for waterproof and breathable fabrics.
- Do not use fabric softener.
- Air dry the jacket or dry it on a low heat setting.
How to reapply DWR coating:
Over time, the DWR coating on your rain jacket will degrade. This is especially true if you wash your jacket frequently or use it in harsh conditions. To restore the DWR coating, you can use a commercial DWR treatment or apply a DIY solution.
To apply a commercial DWR treatment, follow the instructions on the product label. To make your own DWR solution, mix equal parts water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the jacket and let it air dry completely.
Tips for caring for your rain jacket:
- Store your rain jacket in a cool, dry place when you are not using it.
- Avoid exposing your rain jacket to direct sunlight, as this can damage the fabric and DWR coating.
- If your rain jacket gets wet, hang it up to dry immediately. Do not put your rain jacket in the dryer.
- Wash your rain jacket regularly using a technical cleaner designed specifically for waterproof and breathable fabrics.
- Reapply the DWR coating every 6-12 months, or more often if you use your rain jacket frequently in harsh conditions.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can keep your rain jacket in good condition and extend its lifespan. By washing your rain jacket regularly and reapplying the DWR coating, you can ensure that it will keep you dry and comfortable in even the wettest conditions.
Additional tips:
- If you have a rain jacket with a removable lining, remove the lining before washing. This will help the jacket to dry more quickly.
- If your rain jacket has any zippers or pockets, make sure to close them before washing. This will prevent the jacket from getting tangled in the washing machine.
- If your rain jacket is heavily soiled, you may need to pretreat it with a stain remover before washing.
- Be sure to follow the care instructions on the label of your rain jacket. This will help you to avoid damaging the jacket.
Why is it important to wash your rain jacket regularly?
There are a few reasons why it is important to wash your rain jacket regularly:
- To remove dirt, sweat, and other contaminants that can damage the fabric and DWR coating.
- To restore the breathability of the jacket.
- To prevent the jacket from developing a musty odor.
- To extend the lifespan of the jacket.
What are the benefits of reapplying the DWR coating?
Reapplying the DWR coating to your rain jacket has a number of benefits:
- It makes the jacket more waterproof.
- It helps the jacket to bead off water and dirt.
- It improves the breathability of the jacket.
- It makes the jacket easier to clean.
- It extends the lifespan of the jacket.
How often should you reapply the DWR coating?
You should reapply the DWR coating to your rain jacket every