How to Care for Outdoor Jackets: The Secret to Making Waterproof Layers Last for Years
Mountain jackets or riding jackets are an investment for adventurers. However, many users complain that their beloved jackets lose their "taro leaf effect" (water repellent) or their color fades quickly after several washes. Does that mean the jacket is damaged? Not necessarily.
Often, the main problem lies in incorrect washing and drying methods. Technical jackets with windproof and water-resistant features require special handling, unlike ordinary cotton t-shirts. Following Hikemore's principle of prioritizing durability, here is a guide to proper outdoor jacket care.
Figure 1: Hand washing is the safest method to maintain the integrity of the fabric fibers and coating layer on outdoor jackets.
1. Avoid Powder Detergents and Bleach
One fatal mistake Indonesian climbers make is washing jackets with harsh ordinary powder detergent. Powder detergent particles can clog the pores of technical fabrics and damage the waterproof coating. Use baby liquid soap (baby laundry) or special outdoor equipment soap with a neutral pH formula.
2. Washing Technique: Manual is Better
Although some jackets can be machine washed (on delicate mode), manual hand washing is highly recommended. Here's how:
- Soak the jacket in cold water for 15-30 minutes.
- Use a soft toothbrush only on very dirty areas (such as the collar or sleeve ends).
- Do not wring the jacket forcefully, as it can damage the seams and the fabric membrane structure.
3. Drying Process: Avoid Direct Sunlight
Excessive UV rays can fade the jacket's color and damage the adhesive layer (if any). Simply air dry the jacket in a shaded area with good air circulation. Make sure the jacket is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold growth and unpleasant odors.
Figure 2: Using a hanger when drying helps maintain the jacket's shape, especially in the shoulder area which often uses the Batrex Sewing technique.
4. Proper Storage
Do not store the jacket folded for too long in a bag or damp closet. The best way is to hang it using a hanger. If you store it in a backpack (for example, when hiking), make sure it is not weighed down by sharp objects so that the fabric fibers remain intact.
Additional Tips: How to Reactivate the Taro Leaf Effect
If your Hikemore jacket starts to seep when exposed to water, try this modified trick: Use an iron on the lowest temperature (cool iron) and place a cloth layer over it, then iron gently. Very light heat can help re-flatten the DWR coating molecules on the fabric surface. However, make sure to check the jacket's care label first!
