Gore-Tex® is an advanced water-repellent and breathable membrane used in outdoor clothing and footwear. This material is designed to protect against adverse weather conditions while allowing moisture to escape from the body, ensuring comfort during activities in challenging conditions. Learn how to properly care for this material to maintain its properties.
How to wash Gore-Tex® clothing?
Although Gore-Tex® is a durable material, improper washing and care can reduce its performance, especially its water repellency and breathability.
By following a few basic guidelines, you can ensure the long lifespan and proper functionality of the material:
- Wash at a low temperature: Wash Gore-Tex® clothing at a low temperature (ideally 30 – 40 °C). Higher temperatures can damage the membrane.
- Use a mild detergent: Use detergents designed for sports or technical clothing that do not contain fabric softeners or bleach, as these substances can compromise the membrane’s properties.
- Avoid fabric softener: Fabric softener reduces the water repellency and breathability of Gore-Tex® material.
- Close zippers and Velcro: Before washing close all zippers and Velcro to prevent damage to the material.
- Do not dry at high temperatures: Gore-Tex® can be air-dried but if you use a tumble dryer, set it to a low temperature. This step helps restore the material’s water-repellent finish.
- Restore water resistance: After each wash, it is recommended to restore the material’s water resistance using sprays or liquids designed for Gore-Tex® clothing.
Caring for Gore-Tex® clothing extends its lifespan and ensures it continues to provide effective protection against rain and adverse weather conditions.