Proper Care of Goretex

Gore-Tex fabric repels rain, but also allows allows moisture vapor to escape between the fibers, so it's often used as the primary fabric in rain gear. Teflon is stretched into a thin membrane that is then layered between other fabric, usually nylon. You must properly clean Gore-Tex so the membrane isn't damaged, which can cause it to lose its water-repelling ability. While the outer shell fabric over the Gore-Tex membrane may differ depending on the product, general washing methods suffice for most products.

Things You'll Need

• Stain pre-wash treatment
• Laundry detergent

Instructions

1. Inspect the Gore-Tex for any stains that require pre-treatment, such as food, sweat or grease stains. Apply a laundry pre-wash stain remover following the instructions on the label.

2. Close any zippers or hook-and-loop fasteners on the item prior to washing. Remove any items from the pockets.

3. Machine wash items in warm water (104 degrees Fahrenheit) with your preferred laundry detergent. Avoid using detergent with fabric softeners or adding softener to the wash water, as this coats the Gore-Tex and ruins its breathable qualities.

4. Place the washed Gore-Tex in the dryer and tumble dry on the warm setting. Machine drying is preferred, as dryer heat helps restore the water-repelling ability to the fabric. Do not use fabric softener sheets in the dryer.

Tips & Warnings

• Spray the outer shell of the Gore-Tex item with a water-repellent spray, called a DWR treatment, after every wash. These treatments are available at outdoor and sporting goods stores.

• Hand wash small items like gloves if preferred.

• Always read label washing instructions, as these may differ depending on the item and the materials used in the outer shell.

References

• Harvard First-Year Outdoor Program: Raingear
• Gore-Tex: Washing Instructions