Tech Tip: Arc’teryx Care and DWR Renewal

Arc’teryx Care and DWR Renewal

How to prepare your GORE-TEX® garment for washing

To prepare the garment for washing; close the main zippers and pit zips, open pocket zippers, and release tension on all elastic draw cords. Add cleaning agent to the machine and wash the garment on a medium heat setting (40°C / 104°F). Remove the garment, shake to remove excess water and place it in the dryer. DWR is reactivated best when tumble dried at a medium heat setting (40°C / 104°F) for 40 to 50 minutes.

How to wash your Arc’teryx GORE-TEX® garment

Choose a free-rinsing soap or non-detergent cleaning agent to wash your Arc’teryx GORE-TEX® garment. For best results, the washing product should be free of surfactants and detergents, fabric softeners, enzymes, perfumes or whiteners. These chemicals tend to be hydrophilic (attract water) and can reduce the effectiveness of the durable water repellent (DWR) treatment on your garment.

It is recommended to use a cleaning agent made specifically for GORE-TEX® fabrics. Outdoor specialty retailers carry various brands. I recommend using a additive-free 30°C cleaner (unscented detergent). However, if you only have access to normal laundry soaps simply rinse the garment with a second rinse cycle in order to completely remove any residual cleaning chemicals.

How to reapply the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to your GORE-TEX® garment

DWR is a polymer substance applied to the face-fabric of an Arc’teryx GORE-TEX® garment. When the garment is no longer shedding water as it used to—even after it’s been washed and dried—it’s time to reapply the DWR. I recommend using ReviveX by McNett spray because the technologies complement the garment’s original DWR treatment. After washing close all zippers, hang the wet garment on a hanger and spray ReviveX evenly onto the wet face fabric of the garment. Next, place the garment in a tumble drier on a medium heat setting (40°C / 104°F) for 40 to 50 minutes. I do NOT recommend using a wash-in DWR.