Why Proper Care Matters
Over time, dirt, sweat, and other contaminants can affect your jacket's performance by reducing the effectiveness of its water repellent finish and limiting breathability. Regular washing helps maintain both the waterproofing and overall durability of the fabric.
How Do I Take Care Of My Rainwear?
- Wash it regularly (but not too often)
- Dry it properly
- Restore your water repellent finish
How Often Should I Wash My Rainwear?
You don’t need to wash your rainwear after every use. And no, wearing it in the rain doesn’t count as washing it. If you use it frequently (e.g., hiking, outdoor sports): Wash it every 10 days of wear. If you use it occasionally (e.g., commuting, light activity): Wash it every 20–30 days of wear. What are some signs that it’s time for a clean?
- Dirty cuffs and collar from body oils and sweat buildup
- The jacket starts to let water in
- You notice that water stops beading and rolling off the fabric
How to Wash Your Rain Jacket
Remember to always check the care label on your jacket for specific instructions!
Step 1: Pre-Wash Prep
- Close all zippers, fasteners, andself-fastening tabs before washing.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Detergent
- Use a non-detergent soap or a specialised cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash® to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Do not use bleach, fabric softeners, or standard laundry detergents, as these can degrade the waterproof coating.
Step 3: Washing Cycle
- Machine wash your jacket in cold water on a gentle cycle inside a protective mesh bag (such as a Guppyfriend™ bag) to reduce friction and fabric wear.
How to Dry Your Rain Jacket
Drying your jacket properly is crucial.
Air Drying
- Line dry your garment in the shade, away from direct sunlight, to prevent fabric damage.
Tumble Drying
- If needed, tumble dry on a low or cool setting to help reactivate the water repellent finish.
How to Restore Your Water Repellent Finish
If water no longer beads on the surface of your jacket or it starts feeling clammy, it’s a sign the water repellent finish needs restoring or reapplication.
- Tumble dry on a low setting or gently iron your jacket (using a cool synthetic setting) once it is fully dry.
Reapplying The Water Repellent Finish
- If washing and drying don't restore water repellency, apply a water repellent treatment like Nikwax TX.Direct® Spray-On (for targeted application) or Nikwax TX.Direct® Wash-In (for full coverage).
Looking After PFC-Free Waterproof Gear
If your Macpac garment features a PFC-free (WR C0) water-repellent finish, regular maintenance is essential to ensure its performance. Over time, abrasion and contaminants cause the face fabric to absorb water, a process known as ‘wetting out,’ which reduces breathability and waterproofing.
Care Tips for PFC-Free Gear:
- Wash regularly to remove dirt and oils that affect water repellency.
- Reapply a water-repellent finish periodically, as PFC-free coatings degrade faster than traditional treatments.
- Use specialised PFC-free cleaning and waterproofing products from brands like Nikwax and Grangers to maintain peak performance.
- Always follow the care instructions on your garment’s label to ensure longevity.
Tips for Long Term Care
- Avoid dry cleaning, as harsh chemicals can damage the waterproof coating.
- Beware of oil-based products like sunscreen and alcohol-based hair products, which can stain Pertex® fabrics. While this won’t affect performance, this damage isn’t covered under warranty.
- Keep insect repellents away from your garment, as their harsh chemicals can degrade waterproof coatings.
Need advice? Visit your local Macpac store or contact our team online—we’re here to help keep your gear in top condition!
