How to clean & re-waterproof a GORE-TEX jacket?

Your GORE-TEX jacket is an essential piece of outdoor gear, designed to keep you dry and comfortable in challenging conditions. However, over time, dirt, body oils, insect repellent, and other contaminants can compromise its performance. The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish, which causes water to bead up and roll off, also wears down. Regular cleaning and re-waterproofing are crucial steps to restore your jacket’s breathability and waterproof capabilities, ensuring it continues to protect you on your adventures.

Understanding GORE-TEX Technology and DWR

GORE-TEX fabrics feature a microscopic pore structure that is small enough to prevent liquid water droplets from passing through, yet large enough to allow water vapor (perspiration) to escape. This unique membrane is what makes GORE-TEX both waterproof and breathable. The DWR coating on the fabric’s outer layer is the first line of defense, causing water to bead and run off, preventing the face fabric from becoming saturated (a phenomenon known as “wetting out”). When DWR wears off, the fabric absorbs water, which can reduce breathability and make the garment feel clammy, even if the GORE-TEX membrane itself is still waterproof.

Cleaning Your GORE-TEX Jacket: Step-by-Step

Proper cleaning is the first and most critical step before re-waterproofing. Always check your jacket’s care label for specific instructions.

1. Preparation: Zip up all zippers, including pockets and pit zips. Fasten any flaps and cuffs. Loosen all drawcords. Empty all pockets.
2. Washing Machine Setup: Place your jacket in a washing machine with a gentle cycle setting (e.g., synthetics or delicate). Use warm water (around 105°F / 40°C). Avoid top-loading machines with agitators if possible, as they can be too harsh.
3. Detergent: Use a small amount (about 1-2 capfuls) of a technical cleaner specifically designed for waterproof breathable fabrics (e.g., Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Wash). Do NOT use powdered detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, or stain removers, as these can damage the membrane and DWR.
4. Washing and Rinsing: Run the wash cycle. After the wash, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residue is completely removed. Residue can impair the DWR treatment and breathability.

Re-Waterproofing Your GORE-TEX Jacket

Once your jacket is clean, it’s time to restore its DWR finish. You’ll know it’s time to re-waterproof when water no longer beads up and runs off, but instead soaks into the fabric, even after washing and tumble drying.

Choosing a DWR Treatment

There are generally two types of DWR treatments:

• Wash-in Treatments: Applied in the washing machine after cleaning. These are convenient but can sometimes coat the inner lining, potentially affecting breathability slightly.
• Spray-on Treatments: Applied to the exterior of the jacket after washing. These allow for more targeted application and are often preferred for maintaining maximum breathability.

Applying a DWR Treatment (Spray-on Method)

1. Prepare Jacket: Lay your freshly washed, still-damp jacket flat or hang it on a hanger in a well-ventilated area.
2. Apply Spray: Evenly spray the DWR treatment (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On or Grangers Performance Repel Plus) onto the entire outer surface of the jacket, ensuring good coverage. Pay extra attention to high-wear areas like shoulders and elbows.
3. Wipe Excess: Using a clean, damp cloth, gently wipe off any excess DWR solution that hasn’t absorbed into the fabric. This helps prevent streaking and ensures an even finish.

Activating the DWR

Many DWR treatments require heat activation to bond properly with the fabric. Check the product’s instructions, but common methods include:

• Tumble Drying: Tumble dry your jacket on a low heat setting (gentle cycle) for about 20-30 minutes. This is often the most effective way to activate the DWR and can also help reactivate existing DWR after a wash.
• Ironing: If tumble drying is not an option or for specific fabric types, you can carefully iron the jacket on a low heat setting with a towel placed between the iron and the fabric. Avoid direct, high heat.

Tips for Maintaining Your GORE-TEX Jacket

• Clean Regularly: Don’t wait for your jacket to look visibly dirty. Regular cleaning prevents oils and dirt from embedding into the fabric and compromising the DWR.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners: These can clog the pores of the GORE-TEX membrane and strip away the DWR.
• Store Properly: Hang your jacket in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid compressing it for long periods, which can damage the membrane.
• Test DWR Periodically: After washing or re-waterproofing, sprinkle some water on the jacket. If it beads up, you’re good to go. If it soaks in, it might be time for another DWR treatment or heat activation.

Conclusion

By following these cleaning and re-waterproofing steps, you can significantly extend the life and performance of your GORE-TEX jacket. A well-maintained jacket will continue to provide reliable protection from the elements, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable on all your outdoor adventures. Proper care is an investment in your gear and your experience.