Gore-Tex is a waterproof and breathable material used in many outdoor garments. However, its performance can be compromised if proper care is not taken. In this article, we will explain in detail the common mistakes and problems that occur when washing GORE-TEX products, their causes, and measures to prevent them.
Problem: Stains and dirt on GORE-TEX products often have a hard time being removed even after washing. Stains around the neck and sleeves are particularly difficult to remove.
Cause: Many people use outdoor detergents such as NIKWAX or Grangers to wash their GORE-TEX products. These detergents have a mild cleaning power that is designed not to compromise the waterproofing properties. However, due to their mild cleaning power, they may not remove stains as well as general detergents.
Solutioni: It is important to pre-treat before washing. Soak and rub detergent into the stains, especially in areas where stains are noticeable, and blend the detergent with the stains in the fibers. A small amount of general detergent may be used in this process, but be careful with the amount of detergent used. Excessive use of detergent may have the opposite effect, for example, damaging the waterproof property.
Problem: If water repellent treatment is applied without thoroughly removing the stain, the water repellent effect will be reduced and the stain will be more likely to settle.
Cause: Water repellent treatment is a process of applying a coating to the fabric. If the coating is applied while the fabric is dirty, not only will the quality of the coating be compromised, but the stain will be covered, making it even more difficult to remove.
Solution: It is fundamental to always thoroughly clean the stains before applying the water repellent treatment. It is especially important to wash the coating regularly, as stains can accumulate over time and become entrenched. Even if the surface does not look dirty, invisible sebum stains may accumulate, so regular washing is recommended.
Problem: We often hear that despite washing and water repellent treatment, the water repellent performance has not recovered as expected.
Cause: There are many reasons for this problem. The causes of this problem are many and include: wrong choice of detergent, inadequate rinsing, perfume or deodorant, and mismatched commercial water repellents.
Wrong choice of detergent: detergents affect water repellency, so it is best to use an outdoor detergent.
Insufficient rinsing: Any detergent residue will affect the water repellent treatment. Special outdoor detergents rinse well and do not leave residue even after rinsing thoroughly.
Perfume and deodorant effects: If you regularly use perfume, deodorant, or waterproofing sprays, these effects may occur.
Mismatch of water repellent: Commercial water repellents are developed for easy home treatment, which may sacrifice performance.
Solution: If you are not satisfied with the water repellent performance, the causes are complex and difficult to deal with by DIY. It is best left to a professional water repellent treatment store. droproof has a lot of know-how on water repellent treatment and performs thorough pre-treatment to maximize the effect of water repellent treatment.
Problem: Water repellent stains may form when you perform the water repellent treatment yourself.
Cause: Excessive use of water repellent. It is a mistake to think that the more you use, the more effective it will be.
Solution: It is important to follow the directions on the package for the amount of water repellent to be used. Strictly follow the usage amount on the package and do not use in excess. If stains form, it is difficult to deal with them by DIY. Reach out to a professional to deal with it.
Problem: Gore-Tex products have seam tape applied to the seams to protect them and keep them waterproof. However, this seam tape sometimes peels off.
Cause: The adhesive surface of the seam tape can peel off over time as it deteriorates over time. Storage in a hot and humid environment will also increase the deterioration.
Solution: Proper storage is important to prevent the seam tape from peeling. Avoid high temperatures and humidity, and store in a location with good air circulation. If it does peel, please reach out to a professional to have the seam tape reapplied. droproof has the right equipment for seam tape maintenance and can provide high quality repairs.
Problem: GORE-TEX products are three-layered, with a GORE-TEX membrane sandwiched between the front and back fabrics. These fabrics may delaminate.
Cause: The adhesive bond between the laminates deteriorates over time. Also, as with seam tape, poor storage conditions can cause further deterioration.
Solution: It is important to pay attention to storage conditions and avoid high temperatures and humidity. Although fabric delamination does not occur very often, when it does occur, it is difficult to repair, even for professionals. droproof is currently developing technologies to deal with fabric delamination.
Many of the problems associated with washing GORE-TEX products can be prevented by taking the proper precautions. By cleaning dirt thoroughly, applying water repellent treatment correctly, and taking care to store them properly, GORE-TEX products can maintain their performance for a long time.
In the unlikely event of a problem, please contact droproof for help. We are sure we can find the best solution for you. Take good care of your GORE-TEX products and enjoy a comfortable outdoor life.