Complete Guide: How to Wash Raincoats and Waterproof Gear Without Losing Protection

A good waterproof jacket, raincoat, or technical pants are essential investments to keep us dry and comfortable when the weather turns foul. Whether for hiking, biking, or just daily city life, these garments protect us from rain and wind. But what happens when they get dirty? The doubt arises: can you wash a raincoat? How to do it without ruining that magic layer that keeps us dry? Learning how to wash raincoats correctly is crucial to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan.

Many people avoid washing their waterproof clothing for fear of losing impermeability, but this is a mistake! Dirt, sweat, and body oils can clog the pores of breathable membranes and wear down the durable water repellent (DWR) treatment. Proper washing, in fact, helps restore and maintain the garment's properties. In this guide, we'll explain how to do it step by step.

Why Is It Important to Wash Waterproof Clothing?

Contrary to popular belief, washing your technical waterproof clothing is beneficial:

• Restores Breathability: Modern waterproof garments are often also breathable thanks to membranes with millions of microscopic pores (like the famous Gore-Tex). Dirt, dried sweat, and body oils can clog these pores, preventing water vapor (sweat) from escaping and making you feel damp inside, even if it's not raining. Washing cleans these pores.
• Maintains DWR Treatment: Most waterproof garments have an outer finish called DWR (Durable Water Repellent) that makes water bead up and roll off. Dirt and residues can "mask" this treatment, causing the outer fabric to saturate with water (even if the inner membrane remains waterproof). Proper washing cleans the surface and often helps reactivate the DWR.
• Prevents Premature Wear: Embedded dirt can be abrasive and wear down the fabric, membrane, and DWR over time.
• Hygiene: Removes bacteria and bad odors accumulated from sweat and use.

First Things First! Preparation Before Washing

Before putting your waterproof jacket or pants in the washer, take a few minutes to prepare it:

1. Read the Care Label: ALWAYS! It's the most reliable source. It will tell you if it's machine washable, the maximum temperature, if tumble drying is allowed, etc. Each brand and technology may have slightly different requirements. Learn to interpret washing labels and drying labels.
2. Empty All Pockets: Check thoroughly that nothing is left inside (tissues, keys, energy bars...).
3. Close EVERYTHING: Zip up the main zipper, pocket zippers, underarm vents, and secure all flaps and Velcro® closures. This prevents snags and protects both the garment and the washing machine. Loosen elastic drawcords if present.
4. Clean Surface Dirt: If there's dried mud or very visible dirt, gently brush it off with a soft-bristled brush or wipe it with a damp cloth before washing.
5. Clean the Detergent Drawer: Ensure no residue from previous detergents (especially powder or fabric softener) remains in the washing machine's dispenser. Clean it well.

The Detergent: Choose Wisely (It's Crucial!)

This is one of the most important points. Using the wrong detergent can ruin your waterproof garment.

• DO NOT USE Regular Detergent!: Conventional detergents (liquid or powder) contain additives like perfumes, optical brighteners, enzymes, and especially fabric softeners. These components can:
  • Leave residues that clog the pores of the breathable membrane.
  • Damage or strip the DWR treatment that repels water on the surface.
  • Attract water instead of repelling it (hydrophilic effect).
• The Solution: Specific Technical Wash. You should use a cleaner specifically formulated for technical, outdoor, or waterproof clothing. Brands like Nikwax (Tech Wash), Grangers (Performance Wash), or very mild neutral liquid detergents are ideal. These products clean effectively without leaving residues and without damaging membranes or DWR.
• What About Neutral Soap?: A very mild, neutral liquid soap (without additives) could be an alternative, but specific technical cleaners are generally the safest and most recommended option by waterproof clothing manufacturers.
• Amount: Use the amount indicated by the technical cleaner manufacturer, don't overdo it!
• Forbidden: Bleach, fabric softeners, harsh stain removers.

How to Wash Raincoats in the Washing Machine (Recommended Method)

Most modern waterproof garments can be machine washed following these steps:

• Washer Type: A front-loading washing machine is recommended. Top-loaders with a central agitator can be too aggressive.
• Light Load: Wash the waterproof item alone or, at most, with one other similar technical garment. Do not fill the washer.
• Program: DELICATE or SYNTHETICS. Choose a gentle cycle that doesn't agitate the clothes violently.
• Temperature: COLD or WARM (Max 30-40°C / 86-104°F). Follow the label, but cold water is generally the safest option. Never use hot water.
• Detergent: Add the correct dose of the chosen technical cleaner.
• Double Rinse: Very important! Program an extra rinse cycle (or two) to ensure absolutely all detergent residue is removed. Soap remnants negatively affect waterproofing and breathability.
• Spin Cycle: LOW or NONE. A strong spin can damage sealed seams and the garment's structure. Select the lowest possible speed (400-600 rpm) or, if in doubt, disable it completely.
• Remove Garment Immediately: Don't leave it damp inside the machine.

Hand Washing: The Ultra-Gentle Alternative

If the label recommends it or you prefer to be extra careful:

1. Prepare the Bath: Fill a bathtub or large basin with cold or lukewarm water (max 30°C/86°F).
2. Add Technical Cleaner: Pour the appropriate amount of specific cleaner and mix it in.
3. Submerge and Clean: Place the prepared garment in the water and gently swish it around. You can gently press dirtier areas, but avoid harsh rubbing.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and repeatedly rinse the garment with clean, cold water until no trace of foam remains.
5. Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the garment. You can gently press it against the side of the tub or roll it in a large towel to absorb moisture. Never wring it.

Drying and DWR Reactivation: Crucial Step!

Proper drying not only dries the garment but often helps reactivate the water repellent treatment (DWR).

• Air Drying: Hang the garment (zippers open) on a sturdy hanger in a well-ventilated place, away from direct sun and heat sources. This is the safest option if you have doubts.
• Tumble Drying (If Label Permits): Often the best option for reactivating DWR!
  • LOW or MEDIUM-LOW Heat: Use a gentle heat cycle for 20-30 minutes.
  • Check: Remove the garment. It should be dry or nearly dry. Moderate heat reactivates the DWR.
  • Caution: If the label says DO NOT TUMBLE DRY, obey it.
• Ironing (Alternative for DWR Reactivation): If you can't tumble dry but the label allows ironing:
  • Ensure the garment is dry.
  • Use the LOWEST iron setting (synthetics/delicate) and NO STEAM.
  • Place a THIN CLOTH OR TOWEL between the iron and the raincoat.
  • Iron gently and quickly over the entire surface.

Lost Waterproofing? Reapplying DWR

Over time, DWR wears off. If, after washing and drying (with heat if possible), water no longer beads up on the surface but instead soaks the outer fabric ("wetting out"), it's time to reapply a waterproofing treatment.

• Products: Sprays (apply to clean, dry garment) or wash-in products (add to a special wash cycle) are available from brands like Nikwax, Grangers, etc.
• Follow Instructions: Carefully read the instructions for the chosen waterproofing product.
• Heat Activation: Many DWR treatments require gentle heat application (low tumble dry or low iron with cloth) after application to properly bond to the fibers.

Remember, the actual waterproofing comes from the inner membrane; DWR is the first line of defense and aids breathability.

Frequently Asked Questions about Washing Raincoats

Washing your waterproof clothing is not only possible but necessary to keep it performing at its best. Forget the fear and follow these steps: read the label, use the right detergent, choose the appropriate cycle, and pay attention to drying and DWR reactivation. This way, your gear will keep you dry and comfortable on many more adventures!