How to Clean Waterproof Jackets

Waterproof jackets keep kids and adults dry.

Waterproof jackets are great to wear in the rain and snow, as they protect the body from getting wet. Rain and snow also make it easy for a jacket to get dirty, since dirt and grime wash away from cars or buildings, and eventually wipe off on jackets. Children are especially susceptible to getting jackets dirty, since they enjoy playing in puddles and mud. Dirt, grime and mud stains can be removed by spot cleaning and washing the waterproof jackets.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric spot remover
• Soft bristle toothbrush
• Water
• Small tub
• Mild powder detergent
• Waterproof jacket liquid soap
• Hanger

Instructions

1. Remove any mud or difficult stains from the jacket by hand first. Spray a fabric spot remover solution onto the difficult stains, and gently scrub the stains by using a soft bristle toothbrush. Rinse the stains off under lukewarm water in a sink. Apply the spray in small amounts to prevent from over spraying the area with solution. One to two sprays should be sufficient.

2. Fill the kitchen sink or a small tub with lukewarm water. Dip the jacket into the water to allow it to soak. Pour in a teaspoon of mild or delicate powder detergent and wash the waterproof jacket by hand. Pour the dirty soap water out of the tub after washing the jacket, and rinse the jacket under lukewarm running water. Gently wring, not squeeze, the water out of the jacket upon washing.

3. Place the waterproof jacket into the washing machine, if hand washing is not desired. Put the jacket into the washer alone and select the delicate cycle. Add a teaspoon of delicate powder detergent or waterproof jacket liquid soap, and select cold water for the wash. Select a short wash time, if possible, to prevent the waterproof jacket from bubbling up during the cycle.

4. Take the jacket out of the washer once the cycle has completed. Place the waterproof jacket onto a heavy duty hanger, such as a wood hanger, to allow it to retain its shape and air dry. Avoid placing the jacket into the drier or drying it with a blow dryer, as excessive heat may damage the shell of the jacket.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the instructions on the jacket before washing.

References

• Outdoors Magic: Clean, Proof and Dry Waterproof Shell Clothing
• Today's Modern Woman: How Do You Wash a Waterproof Jacket?
• Field and Trek: How to Care for Your Waterproof Jacket
• The Cleanest Line: How Do I Take Care of My Waterproof Shell?

Resources

• Spad Out: Jacket