How Can I Wash Outdoor Waterproof Fabric?

Waterproofing is built into high-tech outdoor clothing such as Gore-Tex, H2No and hard-shell jackets, pants, shirts and vests. Many detergents made exclusively for waterproof fabrics get rid of dirt and odors accumulated from the great outdoors. Read all washing and drying instructions on the garment and detergent bottle before putting either one into the washing machine.

Things You'll Need

  • Outdoor detergent for your fabrics
  • Washer
  • Dryer (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Draw the water into the washing machine. For most outdoor waterproof fabrics, use a warm water setting with a cold rinse. Add the special detergent and let it agitate before putting the garment into the washer. For example, Nikwax-brand waterproof detergents need to be stirred to create bubbles before adding Gore-Tex or H2No fabrics into the wash.

    • 2

      Run the garments through a normal wash cycle and use a gentle spin. Add an extra rinse to get all suds and detergent out of the cleaned outdoor garment.

    • 3

      Hang the garments on a clothesline to dry, unless the garment washing tag permits a tumble dry. If your garment does not have a tag, err on the side of caution and dry on the line.