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Using & Caring For Your Outdoor Clothing

The information on this page has been kindly provided by
The Outdoor Industries Association
www.go-outdoors.org.uk

All outdoor clothing from waterproofs to base layers works better when clean. As a general rule clothes should be washed in warm water (30c - 40c) with mild soap rather than detergents. To Remove stains, first try gently rubbing the face fabric gently with a soft brush, or alternatively speak to your retailer to find out if a proprietry stain removing product can be applied without adversely affecting the material's performance. If you wash your clothing during a trip, please ensure that you use an eco-friendly soap in a bowl well away from water sources.

Waterproof / Breathable Garments

On the outside (or 'face fabric') of new waterproof garments is an invisible water repellent coating that encourages water to 'bead' on the surface of the material. After use this coating wears down, allowing the face fabric to become saturated (known as 'wetting-out'). This affects the Garment's performance and can reduce its 'breathability'. The coating can be replaced with one of a number of proprietry spray or wash in treatments. Check that the treatment does not contain a waterproofing agent that might itself furthe reduce the grament's breathability.

Problems and Cures

PROBLEM CURE
Absorbent clothing (such as cotton) being worn under the Jacket. Perspiration is soaked up by the cotton, giving the impression that the jacket is 'leaking'. Wear fast-wicking synthetic fibres that do not absorb perspiration.
Dirty Face Fabric. This prevents perspiration from escaping. Wash the jacket (see above).
Dampness around the neck, hem and cuffs. Seal these areas with the jacket's drawcords and velcro tabs to stop water dripping in or being drawn up into the garment.
Dampness under the parts of the jacket in contact with rucksack shoulder straps. Perspiration is unable to eascape because it's progress is impeded by the straps, so open the front zip and / or underarm pit zips whenever practical to help as much perspiration escape as possible.