Waterbestendige jas wassen - CLIFTON

Samenvatting in 30 seconden

• Learn how to wash a water-resistant jacket without damaging its waterproof coating, and discover the proper detergents, drying methods, and reproofing tips.
• Avoid common mistakes that ruin performance and get expert answers on washing water repellent clothing, from fabric softeners to restoring DWR protection.

Ever washed your favorite waterproof jacket only to find it suddenly starts soaking up rain instead of repelling it?

If that moment of soggy disappointment sounds familiar, you're not alone. For many, the fear of ruining the water resistance keeps them from cleaning their outerwear at all. However, dirt, body oils, and time can quietly break down your jacket’s performance, long before the next downpour hits.

At CLIFTON, we understand the value of outerwear that works as hard as you do. Our custom-designed, water-resistant jackets are built for performance and personalisation, but they still need proper care to stay at their best.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to wash a water-resistant jacket without losing its protective magic, how to clean a showerproof jacket safely, and how to restore its rain-fighting power, so you never get caught off guard again.

Why Washing Water Repellent Clothing Requires Special Care

Unlike regular clothing, washing water repellent clothing affects not just how it looks but how it performs.

Most water-resistant jackets are treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. This invisible layer causes water to bead and roll off the surface. Over time, sweat, dirt, oil, and detergent buildup can clog the fabric’s pores or break down the DWR layer, leaving the jacket vulnerable to moisture.

But don’t worry, proper cleaning and reproofing techniques can easily restore function without damage.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash a Water-Resistant Jacket Safely

Before diving into the wash, always check the care label provided by the manufacturer. The care instructions differ with the types of jackets. Here’s the safest general process to follow:

1. Shake Off Dirt & Debris

Brush off loose dirt, dust, or mud before washing. This prevents particles from grinding into the fabric during the wash cycle.

2. Zip It Up

Zip all pockets, front zippers, and close Velcro or snap fastenings to avoid snagging or tearing the material.

3. Use Cold or Lukewarm Water

Select a gentle cycle using cold or lukewarm water (30°C max). Hot water can deteriorate technical fabrics or shrink your jacket.

4. Choose the Right Detergent

This is the most important step. Never use regular laundry detergent. Instead, opt for:

• Specialist techwear cleaner (like Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger’s Performance Wash)
• Mild, non-biological detergent with no additives

Using standard detergent may strip the waterproof coating and clog the pores, which defeats the purpose of your jacket.

5. Skip the Fabric Softener

Never use fabric softener. It leaves a residue that destroys the breathability and water-repellent features.

6. Rinse Thoroughly

If your machine allows, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure no detergent remains in the fabric.

Drying Tips for Showerproof & Waterproof Jackets

Once washed, drying matters just as much. Here’s how to dry your jacket safely:

• Hang dry: Use a hanger in a well-ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight.
• Don’t iron or expose to high heat: It can melt or damage synthetic layers.

How to Restore Waterproofing After Washing

Even with careful washing, water resistance will eventually fade. Fortunately, restoring it is easy:

Use a DWR Spray or Wash-In Treatment:

• Spray-on DWR: Apply to clean, damp jackets (focus on shoulders, cuffs, high-wear areas).
• Wash-in DWR: Add to the rinse cycle after cleaning.

Brands like Nikwax, Granger’s, or Storm offer reliable options. Be sure to follow label instructions.

Reproofing helps extend your jacket’s life and ensures it continues to repel rain, snow, and moisture effectively.

How to Spot Clean Between Washes

You don’t need to machine wash your jacket every week. In fact, over-washing can degrade the performance of the fabric. Between full washes, try:

• Wiping down dirty spots with a damp cloth and mild soap
• Spot cleaning inner lining (collar, cuffs) to prevent odour or sweat build-up

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Water-Resistant Jackets

Here’s what not to do:

• Using regular detergent or bleach
• Using fabric softener
• Washing on the hot cycle or rough settings
• Skipping reproofing after several washes
• Drying in direct heat or ironing the jacket

Avoiding these mistakes helps you maintain the function and style of your custom jackets from CLIFTON Clothing.

Washing Different Types of Water-Resistant Jackets from CLIFTON

Whether you're caring for a custom rain jacket or one of our custom fleece jacket, here’s how the tips apply:

Waterproof Jackets & Rain Shells

• Follow the full wash guide + reproof regularly
• Ideal for branded teamwear, staff uniforms, or sports clubs
• Highly functional, so reproof after 2–3 washes

Sherpa Jackets & Pullovers

• Focus more on spot cleaning
• Use minimal detergent and never hot water
• Avoid tumble drying unless the label says it’s safe

Pro Tip from CLIFTON Clothing

After washing and drying, test your jacket by splashing a few drops of water on the surface. If it beads up and rolls off, the DWR is still intact. If it soaks in, it’s time to reproof.

To Sum It

Properly washing your water-resistant jacket is the key to preserving its performance, comfort, and longevity. By avoiding common mistakes and following the right care steps, you’ll ensure your outerwear continues to protect you, rain or shine. Don’t let dirt or detergent ruin what keeps you dry. Instead, treat your jacket with the care it deserves.

Looking for durable, stylish, and customisable waterproof jackets that stand the test of time?
Explore CLIFTON Clothing’s premium outerwear collection today and gear up with confidence. Rain protection never looked this good. 

FAQs

1: What happens if you wash a waterproof jacket with normal detergent?

Washing with standard detergent can break down the DWR coating, clog fabric pores, and reduce breathability. Your jacket may stop repelling water, leaving you wet and uncomfortable.

2: How do you restore the waterproofing on a jacket?

Use a DWR treatment, either a spray-on or wash-in product, after cleaning. Apply it to a clean, damp jacket and allow it to dry. Tumble drying on low can also reactivate the factory DWR finish.

3: How often should you wash a water-resistant jacket?

Only wash when necessary, usually after every 3–5 wears in active conditions, or when dirt and oil build up. Frequent washing can reduce lifespan if not reproofed properly.

4: Can you use fabric softener on water-resistant jackets?

No. Fabric softener ruins the water-repellent finish, causes moisture to absorb instead of bead, and may leave greasy residue. Always avoid it.