How to Wash Your GORE-TEX Fabrics

After introduction in 1978, GORE-TEX fabric gained immediate popularity, especially among outdoor enthusiasts, as a durable, high quality fabric designed to stay dry. Unlike other fabrics, GORE-TEX is both waterproof and breathable, allowing those who don the garments to stay dry on the outside and inside. In addition, GORE-TEX fabric is machine washable and designed to withstand low temperatures in the dryer. Although GORE-TEX is a low maintenance fabric with easy to care for instructions, always double check the manufacturer's labels, located inside the garment, to make sure no special care is needed.

Things You'll Need

  • Pre-wash stain treatment
  • Powder or liquid detergent
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Instructions

    • 1

      Treat stains or heavy soiling on GORE-TEX fabric before machine washing. Spritz stained or soiled area with a pre-wash stain treatment. Allow time for the solution to penetrate, according to the instructions on the solution bottle. Work solution into the fabric with a small brush if the stains are especially tough. Rinse thoroughly before transferring fabric to the washing machine.

    • 2
      Use either liquid or powder detergent.

      Launder garments made out of GORE-TEX fabric, such as GORE-TEX brand outerwear, in the washing machine. Adjust the settings to a regular wash in warm water, at approximately 104 degrees F. Use either liquid or powder detergent. Do not use fabric softener or liquid bleach, which might harm the unique waterproof qualities of the fabric.

    • 3

      Tumble-dry the GORE-TEX garment on low in the clothes dryer. Reactivate the water-repelling qualities of the fabric by setting the dryer to a warm, and not hot, temperature.

    • 4

      Press the fabric, if desired, while the garment is still damp. Place a cloth between the fabric and the steam iron to protect the fabric. Do not feel compelled to iron the fabric until it is completely dry. Complete the drying process by hanging up your pressed, damp garment in indirect sunlight.

    • 5

      Dry-clean your GORE-TEX item at a professional dry cleaners if desired, or as an alternative to machine washing. Request that the dry cleaner use a clear and distilled solvent rinse and spray repellent.