How to wash a membrane jacket? - practical tips
Owners of membrane jackets are often afraid to wash them because they consider this activity risky. However, washing these types of products is necessary, but requires caution. Improper washing of clothing with a membrane may damage the membrane and cause it to lose its waterproof properties. Therefore, it is good to know how to wash such clothes correctly.
In this entry, we explain how to wash a membrane jacket safely and effectively. You will also learn what a membrane is and how it works, as well as how to properly waterproof this type of clothing so that it retains its protective properties.
What is a jacket membrane and how does it work?
A membrane in a jacket is a type of thin coating that does not let water through. It protects against rain and at the same time allows the water vapor produced by our body during exercise to pass through.
The way a membrane works in a jacket depends on its construction and the type of material from which it is made. The most popular membranes are those whose construction consists of millions of micropores. They are so small that they do not allow water to pass through, and at the same time large enough to allow water vapor to pass through. This allows the vapor produced with sweat during exercise to escape. Thus, the jacket not only keeps moisture out, but also maintains adequate air circulation for comfortable use. Below is a diagram of how the membrane works, with the example of Gore-Tex:
Preparing a membrane jacket for washing
Before washing the jacket, it is worth reading the label, which contains guidelines on safe washing methods.
Before washing the jacket, make sure the pockets are empty and all zippers, buttons and Velcro are fastened. This is an important detail that can prevent damage to the fabric.
How to wash a jacket with a membrane and what products to use?
Not sure how to wash a jacket with a membrane? In general, hand washing is safer, while machine washing is more convenient. Most jackets can be washed by both methods, but it's always a good idea to check the information on the label before washing a new jacket for the first time to make sure it's safe to machine wash.
To wash a jacket with a membrane, it is best to use a special liquid for outdoor clothing that has been developed with this type of material in mind. Avoid using other detergents, such as ordinary powder or softener, as they can damage the membrane and reduce its effectiveness.
We recommend using washing liquids for membrane clothing from manufacturers such as Grangers, Nikwax or Hadwao, which are designed for the care of technical clothing. The use of such a washing liquid will ensure that the functionality of the membranes and coatings used in this type of clothing is maintained. Washing liquids for membrane clothing effectively remove dirt and unpleasant odors. They can also be applied directly to stains.
Hand washing the membrane jacket
Membrane jackets can be hand washed at a low temperature with selected detergents. First, wear rubber gloves to protect the skin from the detergent. When washing, do not knead or rub the fabric. Instead, it is best to immerse the clothing in water with the cleaning liquid and gently but vigorously move it. When hand washing, it is important to rinse the clothing thoroughly. This activity will probably have to be repeated several times to completely remove the cleaning agent residue.
Machine washing the membrane jacket
Powders, capsules or stain removers can easily clog the microscopic pores in the membrane and strip it of its properties. For this reason, before you start washing, it's a good idea to make sure that the washing machine has been properly prepared - the drum is empty, and the detergent dispenser is clean and free of residue from regular washing or rinsing liquids. Measure out the right amount of detergent for washing clothes with membranes and (unless the information label says otherwise) set the washing machine to 30°C, then choose a program designed for washing delicate clothes.
Drying a membrane jacket
After washing, the jacket must be properly dried. There are various ways to do this. The jacket can be hung up in the open air, laid flat on a dryer, hung on a hanger. Direct contact with a source of heat should be avoided, so drying the jacket on a radiator or stove with excessive heat is not advised.
If you have a tumble dryer, you can use it to dry the jacket using a gentle cycle. Every few washes, once the jacket has dried, it's a good idea to leave it in the dryer for another 20 minutes, which will help restore the water repellency (DWR) on the outer fabric. Be sure to check the label beforehand to see if you can use a tumble dryer, though.
Waterproofing a membrane jacket
A sign that a membrane jacket needs to be re-waterproofed is soaking of the outer layer, which means that water droplets no longer bounce off the surface of the fabric but form small spots on it. When the fabric becomes soaked with moisture, the membrane's breathability decreases. As a result, you sweat more easily, which significantly reduces the comfort of the jacket.
What waterproofing products for membrane clothing to use?
1. Washing/soaking waterproofing agent
It is a liquid preparation, which should be mixed with water in a bowl. Put the jacket into the finished solution and leave it for about an hour. The exact method of waterproofing with this type of preparation is always found on the product's packaging. At the same time, it is worth remembering that this option will not work in the case of insulated jackets, especially down jackets, because soaking such a jacket in a liquid waterproofing can reduce the compressibility of the filling. Therefore, waterproofing down jackets (both with natural and synthetic insulation) should be done with a spray.
2. Jacket waterproofing spray
Spray waterproofing can be easily sprayed on the surface of a jacket or pants. Preparations of this type are easy to use, but require accuracy during application.
3. 2-in-1 washing and waterproofing preparations
Another solution is special preparations that combine the function of washing liquid and waterproofing in one. However, it is worth remembering that this type of solution may not provide as good results as using separate products, especially when the clothing is already old or heavily exposed to the elements. In most cases, however, especially when the clothing is new, such a combination may be sufficient.
Offer of membrane jacket washing and waterproofing products at MILITARY.EU
MILITARY.EU offers products for jacket washing and waterproofing from many renowned companies. We offer products from brands such as: Hadwao, Nikwax and Grangers.
These preparations are gentle to membranes, do not damage or clog pores, which is extremely important for maintaining waterproof properties. In addition, they protect colors from fading, preserving the aesthetic appearance of clothing even after many washings.
