How to wash waterproof clothing? These types of garments require special care when cleaning. In this post, we give you some tips for washing everything from your raincoat to your snow jacket, including your waterproof workwear, which also needs proper cleaning to maintain its protective properties.
Since they are technical fabrics designed to protect you from moisture, it is important to follow certain guidelines so they remain effective over time. These recommendations apply to both everyday garments and professional or outdoor clothing.
Below, we explain how to wash waterproof clothing, whether by machine or by hand.
Washing waterproof clothing in a washing machine
Waterproof garments such as jackets, pants, overalls or work bibs often accumulate a lot of dirt due to intensive use. In these cases, the washing machine is the best option for effective cleaning.
However, these garments require special care to preserve their water repellency and breathability. It is essential to follow specific guidelines: avoid fabric softeners, use a specialized or neutral pH detergent, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Below, we provide a step-by-step guide to properly wash your waterproof clothing and help preserve its properties for longer.
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Prepare the clothing: Before washing, make sure to zip all zippers and close all pockets. This prevents snagging or deformation during the wash cycle and helps preserve the garment’s technical structure.
- Select the washing program: Choose a gentle or delicate cycle, ideally designed for synthetic clothing. Use cold or lukewarm water (up to 30°C). These settings protect the waterproof layer and prevent damage to technical coatings.
- Use the right detergent: Use a detergent made for waterproof garments or one with a neutral pH (between 6 and 8). Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, or harsh detergents, as these can damage the water-repellent layer. Add the recommended amount—usually one capful—to the proper compartment, and make sure not to mix incompatible products.
- Avoid mixing with other clothes: Wash waterproof garments separately. Do not mix with colored garments to avoid dye transfer, nor with fabrics that release lint or fibers, as these may interfere with the waterproof coating.
- Dry properly: Once washed, it’s best to air-dry the garment in a well-ventilated area. You can also use a dryer on a low setting, if permitted by the label. In fact, mild heat can help reactivate the garment’s water-repellent coating.
- Reactivate water resistance (if necessary): If the garment has lost some water repellency, you can apply a specific waterproofing spray for technical fabrics or use a reactivating treatment. Another option is to place it in the dryer on low heat, as warmth can reactivate the waterproof coating polymers.
Hand washing waterproof garments
Hand washing is another option when the clothing is not excessively dirty. We also recommend cold water and appropriate soap. After gently scrubbing, it’s best to let it soak for about 15 minutes.
If it’s just a localized stain, it’s best to act before it dries. You can press it with a cloth soaked in cold water. This way, you avoid having to wash the entire garment for a single stain.
Some tips for cleaning waterproof clothing
Finally, here are some tips to keep your waterproof clothing in perfect condition:
- Try not to wash these garments as often as regular clothing. Ideally, wait until the end of the season or, for workwear, keep it clean as long as possible without washing.
- Air out the clothing well after each use. Since frequent washing is not recommended, good ventilation helps extend the time between washes.
- Never store the garment damp in a closet.
- Choose a gentle cycle with cold water.
- Never use fabric softener and choose the detergent carefully to avoid damaging the waterproof coating.
Our Featured Waterproof and Breathable Workwear
Waterproof jacket designed for the food industry, with sealed seams, adjustable hood and functional pockets to ensure maximum protection and comfort. Made of PU and polyamide, it offers great resistance to moisture and wear. Ideal for environments requiring high hygiene and safety standards.
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Standards: EN ISO 13688:2013, EN 343:2004 and UNE EN-1186:5-2002.
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Waterproof pants with sealed seams and elastic waistband, ideal for the food sector. Made of PU and polyamide, without pockets, offering maximum hygiene, comfort and resistance in environments where protection from moisture is essential.
Suitable for food use.
Standards: EN ISO 13688:2013, EN 343:2004 and UNE EN-1186:5-2002.
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Experts in Waterproof Workwear
As we have seen, properly caring for your waterproof garments is essential to preserve their ability to protect against water and to maintain their durability, breathability, and performance over time. Whether you use them for work or outdoor activities, proper cleaning makes all the difference.
At Reysan, we offer a wide range of waterproof workwear, such as jackets, trousers, and sleeves, designed to provide comfort and resistance even in the most demanding conditions. If you need to update your gear or are looking for quality technical garments, we invite you to discover all our options.