How to Clean and Waterproof Your Ski Garments: A Comprehensive Guide

Over time, even the most high-performance ski garments can lose their water-repellency, leaving you soaked on the slopes. But fear not! Using the correct techniques and products, you can easily clean and re-waterproof your ski jacket and pants, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable all season long.

Why Waterproofing Matters

Before diving into the cleaning process, it's important to understand why maintaining your ski garment's waterproofing is crucial. From body oils and everyday dirt and grime to spilled après-drinks, these elements can all reduce your outerwear's water repellency over time, leading to discomfort and compromised performance. 

Avoid using everyday household detergents on your ski garments as they can leave behind residues which can attract water. We recommend using a technical cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash to clean your jackets and pants while maintaining the integrity of it's water repellency and breathability.

Cleaning Your Outerwear

1. Inspect Pockets: Before placing your clothing into the wash, check the pockets for any items that might cause damage during cleaning.
2. Prepare for Washing: Once placed into the washing machine add Nikwax Tech Wash. For a top-loading machine, add three full caps (150ml) for 1-3 garments or five full caps (250ml) for 4-6 garments. For a front loader, it’s best to add no more than two garments with two capfuls (100ml) of Tech Wash. 

Please note: If you live in an area with hard water, add an extra capful of Nikwax Tech Wash. 

3. Washing Process: Sit back and relax as the machine does its job. A single cycle is usually enough, but occasionally, for heavily soiled garments you may need to repeat this washing process.

After completing these steps, if you notice your outerwear is no longer repelling water like it used to, it's a clear sign that it's time to replenish its waterproofing. But don’t worry, for this is a natural occurrence in the life cycle of any outdoor garment. 

Follow these steps to breathe new life into your trusty outerwear: 

1. Start with a Clean Slate: Make sure your garment has been cleaned with Nikwax Tech Wash as outlined in the previous steps.

2. Apply Your Waterproofing Solution: For top-loading machines, allow the machine to fill, add up to 3 garments along with 300ml of TX.Direct Wash-In and let it run on a heavy/warm cycle. For front loaders, add 200ml of TX.Direct Wash-In for up to 2 garments.

3. Let it dry – you’re all set: Nikwax activation doesn't rely on heat, so check the garment manufacturer’s guidelines for the best drying method and allow it to dry, then it's ready to wear!

The next time you find yourself braving the elements on your ski adventures, rest assured that your outerwear will be equipped to shield you from whatever Mother Nature throws your way. By nurturing their waterproofing capabilities, you're not just extending the life of your garments but also ensuring countless adventures in dry comfort for seasons to come.

Wondering how often you should clean and waterproof your ski apparel? We recommend cleaning as needed to maintain peak performance and to follow this guide when your garments starts to show signs of soiling or water absorption.

View our range of Nikwax proudcts here and if you require further advice or any information relating to your snow garments, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the expert team at Snowscene. Phone: 1300 139 119 or email us at shop@snowscene.com.au any time, we’d love to hear from you!