Arc’teryx jackets are renowned for their quality and durability, making them a true investment for any outdoor enthusiast. However, in order to maintain their performance and longevity, it’s essential to take proper care of them, including regular washing. In this article, we’ll walk you through the best methods for washing your Arc’teryx jacket to ensure it stays in top condition and performs as it should.
Preparing Your Jacket for Washing
Before washing your Arc’teryx jacket, it’s important to take some preparatory steps to ensure you don’t damage the fabric or the components. Here are the key things to keep in mind:
Check the Care Label
First and foremost, always refer to the care label on your jacket for specific washing instructions. This will ensure you’re using the right methods and materials for your particular jacket.
Remove Any Dirt or Debris
Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to gently brush off any loose dirt or debris on the jacket. This will prevent it from getting embedded in the fabric during the washing process.
Zip Up Pockets and Zippers
Fully close all of the zippers and pockets on your jacket. This will prevent any debris or detergent from getting stuck in them and potentially damaging them.
Remove Any Accessories
If your jacket has any detachable accessories like hoods or liners, remove them before washing to prevent any snags or damage.
Hand-Washing Your Arc’teryx Jacket
Hand-washing is generally the safest and most effective way to wash an Arc’teryx jacket, especially if it has sensitive or delicate components. Here’s how to do it:
Fill a Sink or Tub with Cold Water
Avoid using hot water, as this can cause the fabric to shrink or become damaged. Fill a sink or bathtub with cold water and add a small amount of a gentle, non-detergent cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash.
Soak the Jacket
Submerge the jacket in the water and agitate it gently to ensure the detergent is evenly distributed. Let it soak for around 30 minutes to loosen any dirt or grime.
Rinse the Jacket
Drain the sink or tub and refill it with fresh, cold water. Rinse the jacket thoroughly to ensure all of the detergent is removed.
Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water
Avoid wringing or twisting the jacket, as this can damage the fabric and components. Instead, gently squeeze out any excess water.
Machine-Washing Your Arc’teryx Jacket
While hand-washing is generally the recommended method, it is possible to machine-wash certain types of Arc’teryx jackets. Here’s how to do it safely:
Use a Front-Loading Machine
Top-loading machines can damage the fabric and components, so always use a front-loading machine.
Use a Gentle Cycle with Cold Water
Choose a gentle cycle with cold water and add a small amount of a gentle, non-detergent cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash.
Wash Only with Similar Items
Wash your jacket alone or with other similar, non-abrasive items to prevent damage to the fabric and components.
Avoid Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners can negatively affect the performance of your jacket, so it’s best to avoid them.
Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water
As with hand-washing, avoid wringing or twisting the jacket and instead gently squeeze out any excess water.
Drying Your Arc’teryx Jacket
Once you’ve washed your Arc’teryx jacket, it’s important to dry it properly. Here’s how:
Lay Flat on a Towel
Lay the jacket flat on a clean, dry towel and gently pat it into shape, being careful not to stretch or distort the fabric.
Air-Dry Only
Do not use a dryer, as the high heat can damage the fabric and components. Instead, let your jacket air-dry naturally, out of direct sunlight.
Re-Treat the DWR Coating
If your jacket has a DWR (durable water repellent) coating, you may need to re-treat it after washing to restore its performance. Follow the instructions on your particular re-treatment product.
Conclusion
By taking proper care of your Arc’teryx jacket, including regular washing, you can ensure it performs as it should and lasts for years to come. Be sure to refer to the care label for specific instructions and take care when washing and drying it to prevent any damage.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular detergent to wash my Arc’teryx jacket?
– It’s best to use a gentle, non-detergent cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash to avoid damaging the fabric or components.
2. Should I use warm water to wash my Arc’teryx jacket?
– No, always use cold water to prevent shrinking or damage to the fabric.
3. Can I machine dry my Arc’teryx jacket?
– No, never use a dryer to dry your jacket. Always air-dry it naturally.
4. How often should I wash my Arc’teryx jacket?
– It depends on how often you wear it and the activities you use it for. As a general rule, try to wash it every few wears or when it becomes noticeably dirty.
5. Do I need to re-treat the DWR coating on my Arc’teryx jacket after washing?
– It’s possible, so be sure to check the care label and any re-treatment product instructions to determine when and how to re-treat the coating.
