How to Care for Your Snowwear: Keep Your Gear Waterproof & Ready for Every Ride
Proper snowwear care helps protect the waterproof performance, breathability and durability of your jacket and pants.
Snowwear is exposed to moisture, dirt, body oils, sunscreen, mud and repeated friction throughout the season. Over time, these contaminants can reduce the effectiveness of the Durable Water Repellent finish, commonly known as DWR, and make the outer fabric absorb water more easily.
The good news is that snowwear does not need to be washed after every ride. Light stains can often be removed with a damp cloth, while a complete wash is more appropriate when dirt has built up or water no longer beads on the surface.
In this guide, you will learn when to clean your snowwear, how to wash and dry it safely, how to remove stubborn stains and how to store it correctly between seasons.
Six Steps That Protect Snowwear Performance
Clean at the Right Time
Spot clean light marks and use a full wash when dirt, oils or odor have built up.
Dry Carefully
Air dry first and only use approved low heat to reactivate the DWR finish.
Treat Stains Gently
Use mild detergent, soft cloths and repeated light cleaning instead of aggressive scrubbing.
Wash Correctly
Choose a gentle cycle, outdoor garment detergent and thorough rinsing.
Avoid Harmful Products
Skip bleach, fabric softener, dryer sheets and strong household stain removers.
Store Without Compression
Keep snowwear clean, completely dry and supported on wide hangers.
When Should You Clean Your Snowwear?
How often you should clean your snowwear depends on three main factors:
- How frequently you use it
- How dirty it has become
- Whether the DWR coating still repels water effectively
Washing too frequently is not always necessary. However, leaving dirt and body oils on the fabric for too long can also reduce waterproof performance and breathability.
Light Use and Minimal Stains
If you only wear your snowwear occasionally and water still beads on the outer fabric, a full wash may not be necessary.
For small stains:
- Use a clean, soft, damp cloth.
- Gently wipe the affected area with clean water.
- Blot rather than scrub.
- Allow the fabric to dry completely.
- Repeat the process if the stain remains.
Avoid rubbing aggressively. Excessive friction may damage the surface fabric or reduce the effectiveness of the water-repellent coating.
Frequent Use and Heavy Stains
A full wash is recommended when:
- The jacket or pants are visibly dirty.
- Mud or grime has built up on the surface.
- The cuffs, collar or waistband feel oily.
- Water no longer beads on the fabric.
- The garment has been used frequently.
- Spot cleaning is no longer effective.
Regular cleaning removes dirt and oils that may block the fabric surface and reduce the performance of the DWR finish.
Drying Your Snowwear
Drying your snowwear correctly is just as important as washing it correctly.
Improper drying can damage the fabric, insulation, waterproof membrane or seam construction. Controlled low heat, however, may help reactivate the existing DWR coating.
After Washing
Follow these steps:
- Remove the garment from the washer or basin.
- Gently press or squeeze out excess water.
- Do not twist or wring the fabric.
- Place the garment on a strong hanger.
- Hang it in a well-ventilated area.
- Allow it to air dry naturally.
Wet jackets and pants can become heavy, so support the garment carefully when moving it.
Twisting or wringing can place unnecessary stress on laminated fabrics, waterproof membranes and taped seams.
Reactivating the DWR With a Dryer
Once the garment is dry, place it in a tumble dryer on a low-heat setting for approximately 20 minutes.
This controlled heat can help reactivate the existing DWR treatment and improve water beading.
Before using a dryer, always check the garment’s care label.
Do Not Use
- High heat
- Dryer sheets
- Fabric-softening products
- Long drying cycles
High temperatures may damage technical fabrics, coatings or seam tape.
When the DWR Has Significantly Decreased
If water still spreads across the fabric after cleaning and low-heat drying, the DWR finish may need to be renewed.
- Allow the garment to dry completely.
- Apply a waterproofing spray designed for technical outdoor clothing.
- Apply the product evenly to the outer fabric.
- Pay additional attention to high-wear areas.
- Dry the garment again according to the waterproofing product instructions.
Common high-wear areas include:
- Shoulders
- Sleeves
- Cuffs
- Seat
- Knees
- Lower pant legs
A waterproofing spray helps restore the water-repellent finish on the face fabric. It does not repair holes, torn seams or damaged membranes.
Natural Air-Drying Method
If you prefer to air dry your snowwear and the care label permits ironing, low heat may still be used to help restore the DWR finish.
Once the garment is completely dry:
- Place a clean, thin towel over the fabric.
- Set the iron to a low temperature.
- Turn off the steam function.
- Gently press the covered fabric.
- Keep the iron moving.
- Avoid logos, zippers and printed areas.
My only concern with this method is overheating. Use the lowest suitable temperature and stop immediately if the fabric becomes unusually warm or changes appearance.
Removing Stubborn Stains
Oil, grease, food and other stubborn marks may require a mild cleaning solution.
The goal is to loosen the stain without damaging the waterproof surface or leaving detergent residue behind.
What You Will Need
- Warm water at approximately 40°C or 104°F
- Soft cleaning cloth
- Mild liquid detergent
- Clean damp cloth
- Dry absorbent towel
Safest Detergent Choice
A detergent made specifically for waterproof outdoor clothing is the safest choice.
Avoid strong household stain removers unless the garment manufacturer specifically approves them.
Stain-Removal Steps
- Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water.
- Test the solution on a hidden part of the garment.
- Apply the solution directly to the stain.
- Gently rub or press the stained area with a soft cloth.
- Allow the solution to sit briefly.
- Wipe the area with a separate clean damp cloth.
- Repeat several times to remove detergent residue.
- Allow the fabric to dry.
- Inspect the stain and repeat if necessary.
Use only a small amount of detergent. Too much can be difficult to rinse away and may affect the fabric’s breathability or water repellency.
Fresh Liquid Stains
- Absorb the liquid immediately with a clean tissue or towel.
- Blot gently from above.
- Do not rub the liquid deeper into the fabric.
- Replace the tissue or towel as it becomes wet.
- Clean the remaining mark with a damp cloth.
Responding quickly can prevent the stain from spreading or setting into the fabric.
Avoid Aggressive Scrubbing
Do Not Use
- Hard brushes
- Abrasive sponges
- Bleach
- Solvents
- Strong stain removers
- Fabric softener
- Undiluted detergent
Aggressive rubbing may damage the surface, spread the stain or weaken the DWR coating.
If the stain does not disappear after one treatment, allow the garment to dry and repeat the process gently.
Washing Instructions
Snowwear can generally be washed by machine or by hand, depending on the care label and garment construction.
Before using either method, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Machine-Wash Instructions
Before washing:
- Empty all pockets.
- Close all zippers.
- Fasten buttons and snaps.
- Secure all hook-and-loop closures.
- Turn the garment inside out.
- Place it inside a laundry bag.
A laundry bag helps reduce unnecessary friction during the wash cycle.
Machine Settings
Select
- A gentle or delicate cycle
- Water at approximately 40°C or 104°F
- A low or moderate spin speed
- An extra rinse cycle when available
Do Not Use
- Fabric softener
- Bleach
- Strong detergent
- Scent boosters
- Dryer sheets
- Harsh stain-removing additives
Use a specialized detergent designed for outdoor or waterproof clothing.
Fabric softener can leave a coating on the fibers, reducing both breathability and water repellency.
Strong detergents may also leave residue or damage technical finishes.
After Machine Washing
- Remove the garment promptly.
- Support its weight carefully.
- Gently press out excess water.
- Do not twist or wring.
- Hang the garment in a ventilated area.
If detergent remains visible or the fabric feels soapy, run an additional rinse cycle.
Hand-Wash Instructions
Hand washing can be useful for delicate garments or when the care label specifically recommends it.
- Fill a clean basin with warm water at approximately 40°C or 104°F.
- Add the recommended amount of outdoor garment detergent.
- Mix the detergent into the water.
- Submerge the garment completely.
- Soak it for approximately 20 minutes.
- Gently move and press the fabric with your hands.
- Lightly rub heavily soiled areas.
- Drain the dirty water.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Repeat the rinse until no detergent remains.
- Press gently to remove excess water.
Do not twist the garment to force water out.
Instead, press it gently against the side of the basin or roll it loosely inside a clean towel.
Machine Wash or Hand Wash?
Machine washing is often more effective at rinsing detergent evenly, provided a gentle cycle is used.
Hand washing may be more suitable when:
- The care label requires it.
- The garment has delicate trims.
- You want more control over stained areas.
- The washing machine contains fabric-softener residue.
- The snowwear only needs a light full-garment clean.
Important Snowwear-Care Notes
A few small habits can make a significant difference to the lifespan of waterproof jackets and snow pants.
Treat Fresh Stains Immediately
For fresh liquid stains, absorb the moisture with a clean towel before cleaning.
Do not allow the liquid to spread across the fabric.
Avoid Aggressive Rubbing
Rubbing too hard may damage the surface texture or water-repellent treatment.
Use light pressure and repeat the cleaning process rather than trying to remove the stain in one forceful attempt.
Repeat the Cleaning Process When Necessary
Some stains may not disappear completely after one treatment.
Allow the fabric to dry, inspect the mark and repeat the same gentle process if needed.
Do not increase the detergent concentration unless the product instructions allow it.
Spot Clean When Waterproofing Still Performs Well
If water still beads effectively and only one small section is dirty, spot cleaning is usually preferable to a complete wash.
This reduces unnecessary cleaning while keeping the garment presentable.
Use a Full Wash for Deep Cleaning
Wash the entire garment when:
- Dirt is spread across multiple areas.
- The collar and cuffs feel oily.
- The snowwear has a noticeable odor.
- Water no longer beads evenly.
- Spot cleaning is no longer practical.
After deep cleaning, dry the garment according to the care label. Controlled heat at approximately 40°C or 104°F may help restore water repellency when permitted.
Always Rinse Thoroughly
Detergent residue can interfere with waterproof and breathable performance.
An extra rinse is worthwhile when:
- The garment still feels slippery.
- Foam remains visible.
- Too much detergent was accidentally added.
- The washing machine has previously used fabric softener.
Follow the Care Label
The sewn-in care label should always take priority over general advice.
Snowwear may contain different combinations of:
- Waterproof membranes
- Synthetic insulation
- Printed graphics
- Elastic panels
- Seam tape
- Decorative trims
- Detachable components
Some materials may require lower temperatures or different drying methods.
Storage Instructions
Correct storage helps protect the waterproof membrane, insulation and overall shape of your snowwear.
The garment should always be completely clean and dry before long-term storage.
Store Snowwear on a Hanger
Whenever possible, store jackets and pants on strong, wide hangers.
A wide hanger helps:
- Support the shoulders
- Preserve the garment’s shape
- Reduce sharp folds
- Allow airflow
- Prevent heavy compression
For pants, use a hanger that supports the waistband evenly.
Avoid Long-Term Folding
Folding snowwear temporarily for travel is usually fine, but long-term folding can create repeated creases in the same areas.
Avoid leaving the garment tightly folded for an entire season.
Avoid Heavy Compression
Do Not Store Snowwear
- Under heavy boxes
- In tightly packed drawers
- Inside compressed storage bags
- Beneath skis or snowboards
- At the bottom of a gear pile
Heavy compression may flatten insulation and place unnecessary pressure on waterproof membranes or laminated fabric.
Choose a Dry, Ventilated Location
Store snowwear in a place that is:
- Cool
- Dry
- Clean
- Well ventilated
- Away from direct sunlight
Avoid damp basements, hot attics, garages with large temperature changes and vehicle trunks.
Make Sure the Garment Is Completely Dry
Before storage, check:
- Cuffs
- Collar
- Hood
- Pockets
- Waistband
- Seat
- Pant hems
- Inner lining
These areas can remain damp even when the outer fabric feels dry.
Storing damp snowwear can cause:
- Odor
- Mildew
- Fabric deterioration
- Lining damage
- Reduced comfort
End-of-Season Storage Steps
- Inspect the garment for dirt.
- Spot clean or wash it if needed.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry it completely.
- Empty all pockets.
- Loosen drawcords and wrist adjustments.
- Close zippers gently.
- Hang the garment in a dry location.
- Avoid placing heavy equipment against it.
A breathable garment bag can be used to protect snowwear from dust.
Avoid sealing the garment inside an airtight plastic bag, especially if there is any possibility that moisture remains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash my snowwear?
Wash your snowwear when it becomes visibly dirty, oily, odorous or stops beading water effectively. Lightly used gear with only small stains can usually be spot cleaned.
Can I wash a ski jacket in a washing machine?
Yes, if the care label permits machine washing. Use a gentle cycle, outdoor garment detergent and water at approximately 40°C or 104°F. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
Can I put snowwear in the dryer?
Use a dryer only when the care label allows it. Low heat for around 20 minutes can help reactivate the existing DWR coating.
Why is water no longer beading on my snowwear?
The outer fabric may be dirty, or the DWR coating may have weakened. Wash the garment correctly, use approved low heat and apply a waterproofing spray if necessary.
Should I wash snowwear before storing it?
Clean it before storage when it is dirty, oily or stained. Most importantly, make sure it is completely dry before placing it in long-term storage.
Keep Your Snowwear Waterproof and Ride-Ready
Proper snowwear care does not require complicated equipment, but it does require the right timing and technique.
Spot clean small marks when the garment is otherwise clean and still repels water. Use a full wash when dirt, oils or stains have built up, and always choose a detergent designed for technical outdoor clothing.
After washing, avoid twisting or wringing the fabric. Air dry it carefully, then use approved low heat to help reactivate the DWR finish. When water no longer beads after cleaning and drying, apply a suitable waterproofing spray.
Finally, store your jacket and pants completely dry, preferably on hangers in a cool and ventilated area.
Following these six care steps will help maintain waterproofing, breathability and durability so your snowwear stays ready for every ride.
Protect the Gear That Protects You
Keep your snowears clean, dry and properly stored so it performs season after season.
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