RAIN JACKET CARE: TIPS TO KNOW FOR WASHING AND TREATING WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE GARMENTS
With the approach of bad weather, should we pay extra attention when caring for our rain jacket? The answer is yes! Waterproof and breathable garments offer protection against the most difficult weather conditions, but require specific care to maintain their properties. In this article, we reveal all the advice to follow to take proper and lasting care of your rain jacket.
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO CARE FOR A RAIN JACKET?
A riding rain jacket is a very practical and essential garment when engaging in outdoor activities. A waterproof jacket is indeed the key to staying dry and not turning into a "sponge" during heavy rain. Thus, while a rain jacket allows you to better enjoy outdoor sports while being well protected, it also needs to be maintained regularly to preserve its technical benefits and maintain its waterproof protection.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DETERGENT AND THE RIGHT WASH CYCLE
To take care of a rain jacket, you should first choose an adequate detergent that is well suited to your garment. Don't use just any product! Many brands offer specific detergents for cleaning garments with a waterproof membrane. The detergent must be gentle to avoid premature wear of the fabric and seams. Once the product is chosen, there are several possibilities for washing: by hand or machine and with the appropriate programme.
USING SPECIFIC PRODUCTS TO CLEAN A WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE GARMENT
Once the programme is selected, it's important that you know which products to add to your wash cycle: standard products or specialised products? Brands offer various simple and effective solutions for taking care of a jacket with a waterproof membrane. Particularly recommended products include waterproof products for stretch fabrics with water-repellent treatment; "delicate" cleaners also help ensure lasting protection for a long time. Gentle shampoos help keep the membrane breathable without damaging the water-repellent coating.
TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS ON RAIN JACKET CARE
The instructions provided by your manufacturer on care are essential: each one is unique and it's therefore very important to take into account each piece of information provided on the label. It's very important, for example, to respect the manufacturer's instructions regarding temperature and water volume to achieve optimal washing. We advise you to wash your rain jackets at a maximum of 30°C with a gentle or organic detergent without fabric softener.
WHAT FREQUENCY SHOULD BE RESPECTED FOR WASHING A RAIN JACKET?
This question depends above all on your type of jacket and the uses you make of it. The recommended frequency is about once or twice a year but it may vary depending on your use. For example, if you're an outdoor sports enthusiast, you'll probably need to wash your jacket more frequently. If you wear your coat during occasional outings, washing once a year may be sufficient. Proper care and regular maintenance of a waterproof jacket will considerably increase its lifespan and allow users to fully benefit from the technical advantages it offers.
HOW TO PROPERLY TREAT A WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE MEMBRANE?
Waterproof and breathable membranes are often made of special materials that require particular treatment during washing. For best results, it's preferable to turn your jacket inside out then put it in a standard washing machine with a gentle programme and a low temperature setting. Once the cycle is complete, check that the seams are tight and that no fabric is coming undone. To guarantee optimal washing without product degradation, close all zips, velcro and buckles. Turn your garment inside out.
WHAT PRACTICES SHOULD BE ABSOLUTELY AVOIDED WHEN CARING FOR A GARMENT WITH A WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE MEMBRANE?
There are certain practices to absolutely avoid when wanting to maintain your riding waterproof jacket. If you decide to clean the coat by hand, avoid aggressive or abrasive products that can damage the seams or waterproof membrane. You should also not use hot air tumble dryers as this risks damaging the product and reducing its lifespan. It's also advisable to consult websites such as the manufacturer's to find out the type of washing that will best suit your rain protection.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR JACKET AT TOP LEVEL WHILE PRESERVING ITS TECHNICAL BENEFITS
Adequate care of a rain jacket is essential to maintain its protection and maintain its lifespan. Using a specialised detergent, the appropriate washing system and respecting the manufacturer's instructions are the keys to properly caring for your rain coat. If you decide to try cleaning products sold in a specialised shop, make sure they're suitable for the waterproof membrane of the coat and test them on a small area before proceeding with a deep clean. Wash the product only when necessary and for small stains favour surface hand washing.
All water-repellent products have a DWR (Durable Water-Repellent) finish that prevents water saturation of the garment while ensuring good breathability. This protection must be renewed if necessary. Specialised products are available on the market; you have the option to choose between a spray or a product to add directly to your detergent.
This allows better product effectiveness as well as its durability.
If despite this advice you can't manage, contact us via our form or directly by phone: +33 4 99 54 63 52
