HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR OUTDOOR CLOTHING
Washing1
Step 1. Prefer washing at home. Professional cleaning products, due to their intensity and strong fragrance, should be avoided2.
Step 2. Wash the coat separately in cold water, choosing the delicate cycle of the machine3 or by hand. ALWAYS remember to remove the fur from the hood before cleaning.
Step 3. Use a mild liquid detergent specially designed for outdoor clothing4. Note that using any fabric softener, bleach, or chlorinated product is STRONGLY DISCOURAGED.
Step 4. Perform a minimum of two to three rinses. No detergent residue should remain.
2 Dry cleaning can also melt the waterproof membrane and remove the water-repellent coating.
3 A front-loading washer is recommended. Clément is not responsible for damage caused by the machine or improper application of care instructions. No refund will be authorized.
4 NikWax products are recommended.
Drying
The preferred drying method varies depending on the fibers of your outdoor clothing.
Synthetic Outdoor Clothing
NO machine drying. Dry flat only in a well-ventilated environment.
Down Outdoor Clothing
Machine drying at low temperature or without heat. Add wool drying balls; this will make the process faster and restore volume to the garment. Avoid air drying, as it significantly extends the process and may lead to mold development.
Re-Waterproofing (if needed)
Follow washing steps 2 to 4 before waterproofing the coat.
Step 5. Repeat a new delicate wash cycle in cold water, using a waterproofing product such as Nikwax. It is important to follow the detailed instructions on the detergent label.
If water no longer beads on the surface as it did when new, it is entirely normal as this coating gradually dissolves in contact with water. The outdoor garment is still waterproof with its inner membrane; however, it is possible and necessary to re-waterproof it with appropriate products, such as Nikwax. This will restore it to its original performance.
Which Detergent to Use?
It is important to use a detergent tailored to your product to ensure optimal care, guaranteeing its durability and performance.
Synthetic Outdoor Clothing
Use detergent suitable for products with a Teflon-type water-repellent coating, such as NikWax "Tech Wash 300ml" available here.
Down Outdoor Clothing
Use detergent suitable for products made of down, such as NikWax "Down Wash Direct" available here.
Advantages of NikWax Products
NikWax products offer a complete solution for waterproof clothing maintenance, combining efficiency and environmental friendliness. Their unique formula allows for deep washing, preserving the original water repellency, while the water-repellent treatment (Tech wash) ensures lasting water resistance. By revitalizing fabric breathability, these products ensure optimal comfort. Easy to use, they simplify the maintenance process of technical clothing. Moreover, the absence of fluorocarbons in their composition eliminates any harmful impact on health and the environment. Additionally, waterproofing is not activated by heat, providing a practical and performance-friendly solution for clothing. To see the complete range of NikWax products, click here.
Why Does Outerwear Get Wet?
Waterproof clothing, such as snow gear, incorporates a hydrophilic inner membrane (e.g., 5000 mm) and an external treatment (e.g., Teflon EcoEliteTM). This double layer of protection offers substantial benefits, including water resistance, dirt repellency, and increased quick-drying capacity. However, it is important to note that this outer protective layer naturally deteriorates over time, especially under the impact of rain, which can accelerate its wear compared to snow. Additionally, inappropriate use of detergents during washing can compromise the effectiveness of this protection. It is crucial to emphasize that the presence of apparent moisture on the outer fabric does not necessarily indicate a loss of waterproofing.
Important Note: The presence of apparent moisture on the outer fabric does not necessarily indicate a loss of waterproofing.
Caution for Down Products: It is essential to note that most items made with down do not have a hydrophilic inner membrane. Down requires breathability to ensure its warmth. Therefore, it is water-resistant but not waterproof. Adding a shell to a down snow outfit, such as the Splashy, is a wise solution to ensure optimal waterproofing, especially in rainy winter weather.
Considerations on Waterproofing: Some products incorporate a waterproof membrane; however, they may not have sealed seams. Although qualified as waterproof, these items do not have the same water resistance as those with sealed seams.
Down Care Tip
When a feather seems about to escape from your coat, it is important to note that this occurrence is normal. However, it is strongly advised not to pull on the feather. It is recommended to take a gentle approach by massaging the feather back into the coat. Pulling on the feather could create an opening, making it easier for other feathers to come out.
