Cleaning and Reproofing Waterproof Clothing
Overview
Cleaning and reproofing waterproof clothing restore breathability and water repellency to shells and rainwear. Proper care extends garment life and maintains reliable performance in wet conditions.
Key points
- Dirt, skin oils, and contaminants can clog breathable membranes and reduce effectiveness.
- Garment-specific detergents are often recommended instead of standard laundry soap.
- Care labels provide guidance on water temperature, spin cycles, and drying methods.
- Reproofing with durable water repellent (DWR) treatments helps water bead on outer fabrics.
- Heat activation in a dryer or with gentle heat may be required for some DWR products.
- Excessive washing or harsh detergents can damage membranes, coatings, and seam tapes.
- Zippers and hook-and-loop fasteners are often closed during washing to reduce wear.
- Periodic maintenance is more effective than waiting until garments are heavily soiled.
Details
Waterproof and breathable clothing relies on a combination of face fabrics, coatings or membranes, and surface treatments. Over time, dirt, oils, and airborne pollutants accumulate on the fabric, reducing its ability to shed water and allow moisture vapor to escape. Regular cleaning with appropriate detergents helps restore performance, but it is important to follow manufacturer instructions. Many companies recommend specialized cleaners that are less likely to leave residues or damage technical materials.
After washing, garments may benefit from reapplication of a water-repellent finish. Durable water repellent (DWR) treatments are available as wash-in or spray-on products. These coatings encourage water to bead and roll off the surface rather than soaking into the fabric, which helps maintain breathability and reduces drying time. Some treatments require heat activation in a dryer or with gentle warming, subject to the garment’s care label. Performing cleaning and reproofing at intervals based on usage and visible wetting patterns keeps rainwear functioning reliably over many trips.
Disclaimer: thruhikingwiki.com is an independent, informational reference only. It is not an official source for any trail association, land manager, park, agency, or guide service. Nothing on this site is legal, safety, medical, navigation, or professional advice, and it does not replace formal training or certified instruction. Thru-hiking and backcountry travel involve significant risk. Local regulations, land manager rules, and manufacturer instructions always take priority. You are solely responsible for your planning decisions, safety practices, and compliance with applicable laws. Use this site at your own risk.
Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.