All Softshell garments be they EXOLITE, GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ or GORE® WINDSTOPPER should ideally be washed using a specialist cleaning product such as
Grangers Performance Wash,
Nikwax Tech Wash,
Fibertec Pro Wash, or
Storm Clothing Wash.
If these aren’t available then soap flakes which can be purchased from a supermarket are also fine, and failing that simple liquid detergent without fabric softeners can be used especially on heavily worn products.
Before you begin, clean any detergent out of your washing machine: if you use the powder drawer, give it a thorough clean, pouring hot water down it to remove any residue. Finally, run a short rinse cycle with the machine empty to clear any remaining detergent.
Ensure all pockets are empty, drawcords under tension are released, velcro adjusters fastened and all zips including pocket zips and ventilation zips are done up fully.
Read the care label found inside the jacket.
Select the appropriate wash cycle on your machine - ideally this should be a programme with a low to medium spin speed setting such as Delicates, Woollens or Handwash and with a temperature setting of 30°C or 40°C . Multiple garments can be washed at once but avoid washing heavily soiled garments together. Lightweight Softshell fabrics may only need to be rinsed once but for all others, rinse thoroughly (preferably twice) before removing.
Garments can then be air-dried or tumble-dried as necessary (please check care label) or reproofed. Even if air-dried, tumble-dry again on a low heat setting to help reactivate any DWR (Durable Water Repellency) treatment on the outer fabric. This can also be achieved by carefully ironing the outer fabric on a warm setting, ensuring to place a thin cloth between the garment and the iron. Do not allow the iron to come into contact with any zips, gaskets or logos.
Finally all components such as cordlocks should be checked and zips thoroughly lubed. We recommend using a product such as
Gear Aid Zipper Lubricant,
McNETT Zip Care or Zipper Stick. Alternatively natural products such as Beeswax can also be used. The garment can then be stored away as normal.