Having waterproof clothing does not mean you do not need to wash them. Dirt, grime, and unattractive smells can cling to any cloth.
Washing waterproof clothing may seem impossible, but you will find some tips to help complete the chore. The attendants at North Fort Myers Laundromat try to support all your laundry needs. Read more to learn the best ways to clean up despite the water resistance.
How Do Waterproof Clothes Work?
To understand how to clean waterproof clothes, you also need to know how they work.
Manufacturers create clothing with a specialized layer plus a thin waterproof coating called durable water repellent (DWR). The special layer is a membrane with microscopically “spiky” surfaces. In contrast, regular clothes have a much flatter surface.
When water drops on the wide surface of regular clothes, the tension keeping the droplet together breaks. Upon breaking, the liquid spreads out on the clothes, and the flat surface absorbs the water.
However, DWR helps keep the droplet on the small, angular surface of the membrane. These qualities make it harder for the water to break apart.
Unbroken water droplets tend to roll off the clothes rather than absorb into them. Some of the most popular clothes with this unique layer and DWR include jackets and technical outerwear.
How To Wash Waterproof Clothes
While these clothes can be sturdy, you need to follow cleaning instructions carefully. When you try to wash your waterproof jacket, there should be instructions from the manufacturer on how to do it. A few common points trend across many DWR cleaning instructions:
- Determine if you need to hand wash your waterproof clothes or if you can put them in the washing machine. The washing aspect differs between products and clothes, so keep an eye out for that information.
- Do not use ordinary detergent on waterproof clothing. The additives, like softeners and straighteners, could damage the membrane layer, which requires angular surfaces. It could also make the DWR less effective.
- Once tumble-dried on low to medium heat, you can tumble it again or dry it in places without direct sunlight. Double-drying helps maintain the DWR, but only if on a low-enough heat. High heat can damage it instead.
What if My Clothes Start Absorbing Water?
Now that you know how to wash waterproof clothes, you may worry you’ve done the wrong thing. However, clothes can wear down over time, so if you experience these issues, do not worry. You can apply new DWR coatings to strengthen the waterproof layer.
While you may not find it for generic brands, different manufacturers have DWR replenishment products. First, you usually need to wash the waterproof clothing with a specific additive-free detergent. Afterward, you spray or rewash it with a water-repellant treatment.
Try Our Top-Notch Laundry Services
North Fort Myers Laundromat staff members help local Floridians keep their clothes in top shape. Our store includes a self-wash option and an easy drop-off service that lets you keep on with other activities. We know how to wash clothes with special care instructions and more.
For more information about our eco-friendly washing machines or commercial washing options, call (239) 995-0260.