Technical Garment Care
Technical fabrics’ performance feature will last longer if you maintain them correctly.
Washing: Wash technical fabrics (Gore-Tex and other breathable/waterproof fabrics) in cold or warm water with mild powder laundry soap. (Do not use liquid detergent) Line dry.
Keeping waterproof waterproof: Most of today’s waterproof/breathable shells are treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DRW) finish, which keeps the outer fabric from becoming saturated so that the inner breathable barrier can do it job. Replenish this coating at least once per season with spray-on DWR treatment. Check out Nikwax and Granger’s products (pre-wash and spray-on) for your technical gear treatment.
Stain Removal: Dampen the stain and rub in dishwashing detergent. Then launder the jacket in warm water with mild powder laundry soap.
Avoid fabric softeners: Liquid fabric softeners and dryer sheets release tiny particles that can clog technical fabric and interfere with wicking properties. If you’ve accidentally used fabric softener, wash the garment twice in hot water with no detergent.
Pilling: Pilling results from rubbing or abrasion during normal wear. These days most technical fleece fabrics are treated with “anti-pilling” agents. Old fleece can be held against a hard surface and “de-pilled” with a straight razor.
Sleeping Bag Care and Feeding:
* A few steps can ensure years of service from your bag.
* Never dry-clean your bag. Use the gentle cycle of a front-loading washer instead. With down or synthetic, use a scant amount of mild powdered detergent. If you’re washing your bag more than once a year, use specific down cleaner. (Nikwax Down Wash) These cleaner can be used for synthetic insulation bags and down or synthetic insulation jackets.
* Set dryer on low or air dry and make sure the bag has room to flop around and fluff up. Toss in couple of tennis balls towards the end of the cycle to smooth out lumps. Hang out of direct sun to fully dry.
* Store your bag hanging at full-length or in a large, breathable cotton bag (no compression sacks).
