Views: 257 Author: Hedy Publish Time: 2023-08-31 Origin: Site
If you, like us, prefer spending time outside, a softshell jacket should be an essential element of your outdoor gear collection. The softshell jacket is versatile, practical, and elegant, and may be worn as an outer or inner layer of clothing depending on the weather. However, repeated exposure to the outdoors can cause dirt and debris to accumulate on the garment, and it is at these times that you may be asking how to wash a softshell jacket.
But how do you start? It can be hard to know how to clean your softshell jacket properly, especially as you don’t want to risk damaging the waterproof protection. That’s where we come in. This handy guide will take you through step-by-step how to wash your softshell jacket, as well as detailing pitfalls to avoid and tips provided by our experts.
If you often go outside, it is unavoidable that your jacket will come into touch with the elements. Whether it's rain, sleet, or snow, inclement weather brings dirt and debris, which can accumulate on your jacket and potentially harm the waterproof covering. This may cause your jacket to become less efficient at shielding you from the elements over time, making for a far more miserable walk into the wilderness.
Cleaning your softshell jacket preserves it in pristine condition, allowing you to maximize your outdoor performance. By keeping it clean, you allow the jacket to operate at its optimum, allowing you to be comfortable for longer in even the roughest situations.
Following the appropriate cleaning method will also improve your jacket’s durability, helping it maintain its quality for many adventures to come.
The quick answer is yes, but always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Softshell jackets may be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle, and they can be cleaned with detergent as long as the solution is mild.
We recommend avoiding fabric softeners and liquid detergents while washing a softshell jacket. Both methods include chemicals that can harm the waterproof coating, robbing the jacket of its protection and rendering it unusable.
Ultimately, while it’s possible to wash a softshell jacket in the washing machine, it’s essential to consider both the cycle and solution. Simply throwing your jacket in the machine will not clean it effectively, whereas a careful approach following manufacturer guidelines will keep your jacket in top condition.
Follow our step-by-step guide below on how to wash your softshell jacket effectively.
1.Start by checking the manufacturer’s instructions on the label. It’s always important to check if there are any factors you need to be aware of specific to this particular jacket.
2.Ensure all fasteners and pockets are closed and zippers are zipped up. Any loop and hook sections should also be fastened.
3.Prepare the washing machine for washing your softshell jacket. Check for any remnants of fabric softeners and washing powder, and remove these before placing your jacket in the machine. Ignoring this step could risk damaging the softshell fabric.
4.Place your softshell jacket into the washing machine. Set to the recommended temperature of 30 or 40 degrees, but always check the manufacturer label first. Do not fill the washing machine any higher than two thirds of its full capacity, or doing so could mean the jacket may not be rinsed as thoroughly.
5.Start the washing machine. In order to make sure all detergent residue washes away, you should put the jacket through the rinse cycle twice.
6.Most softshell jackets can be dried in a tumble dryer. Select a medium heat setting for around 40-50 minutes, making sure to follow the manufacturer guidelines while doing so. Avoid using fabric softener as this could damage the softshell fabric.
7.Allow your jacket to dry completely before your next wear.
The top DWR coating - or Durable Water Repellent - will begin to peel away and progressively lose its efficacy after many wears. This is where re-waterproofing your softshell comes in, a vital step you should always take after cleaning your jacket thoroughly.
The most efficient technique is to apply a waterproofing spray intended to restore a jacket's DWR. Simply spray on the jacket's exterior fabric to improve its waterproofing. You might also apply a liquid DWR solution to the softshell by washing it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
