Wash your jacket
How to Properly Wash Your Welter Shelter Jackets: Care Tips for Your Waterproof Jacket
Caring for your Welter Shelter jacket is essential to maintain its functionality and extend its lifespan, whether it's your everyday rain jacket or a heavier waterproof winterjacket. Proper washing not only keeps your jacket clean but also helps preserve its waterproofness, ensuring that it continues to protect you from the elements. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to wash your waterproof rain jackets or winterjackets effectively, while maintaining their quality.
Hand Wash is Always Recommended
At Welter Shelter, we always recommend hand washing your jacket as the safest and most effective cleaning method. Hand washing allows you to gently clean the jacket without exposing it to the potential wear and tear of a machine. Use mild detergent and lukewarm water, then gently scrub any dirty areas with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and hang the jacket to dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid wringing out the jacket to maintain its structure.
Machine Washing: A Safe Alternative
If hand washing doesn't fully clean your jacket, you can use a machine wash, but it’s important to follow specific guidelines to avoid damaging the material and its waterproofness. Always wash at 30 degrees Celsius on a short, delicate program. Use a gentle detergent, preferably one that’s designed for technical fabrics. Avoid fabric softeners as they can affect the jacket’s waterproof properties. After washing, let the jacket air dry—never use a dryer, as high heat can compromise the fabric's integrity and waterproofness.
Check the Waterproofness After Washing
One crucial step after washing your waterproof rain jacket or waterproof winterjacket is to check its waterproofness Washing can sometimes reduce the jacket’s ability to repel water, and it's important to ensure it still provides adequate protection. To check, you can simply sprinkle some water on the jacket's surface—if the water beads up and rolls off, your jacket’s waterproof layer is still intact. If it soaks into the fabric, it’s time to reimpregnate the jacket.
Reimpregnating Your Jacket for Waterproofness
Over time and after multiple washes, even high-quality waterproof jackets may lose their ability to repel water. To restore your jacket’s waterproofness, we recommend using a waterproofing spray or wash-in product specifically designed for waterproof winterjackets and rain jackets. Follow the product instructions carefully, and reapply it to your jacket after every few washes or whenever you notice a decline in its performance. This simple step ensures your jacket stays waterproof and ready for any weather.
Final Tips
- Always check the care label on your jacket for specific washing instructions.
- Avoid ironing or exposing your jacket to high heat.
- Store your winterjacket or rain jacket in a cool, dry place when not in use to preserve its waterproof layer.
By following these washing tips, you can maintain the look, feel, and waterproofness of your Welter Shelter jackets, ensuring they continue to perform at their best no matter the weather.