How to Wash a GORE-TEX Hardshell Jacket » Care Guide
Whether you're climbing in the high mountains, ski touring in gusty winds, or dealing with drizzle on a hike – a waterproof hardshell jacket will reliably shields you from wind, moisture, and snow. To keep it performing at full capacity long-term, regular care is essential. Sweat, dirt, and wear can gradually compromise that water-repelling magic. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of properly cleaning, drying, and reproofing your GORE-TEX gear to help you stay dry and protected on your next adventure.
What exactly is GORE-TEX?
GORE-TEX belongs to the microporous membrane family. As the name suggests, the membrane is made up of tiny pores – so small that water can't get through from the outside. At the same time, the pores are big enough to let water vapor escape from inside. This creates a natural air exchange: rain, snow, and wind stay out, while sweat and moisture can escape. That's what makes GORE-TEX perfect for hardshells – especially when you're working hard in changing conditions.
When Is It Time for a Clean?
When your jacket stops shedding water like it should, starts getting smelly, or looks grimy, it's time to give it a wash. Despite what people say, washing actually makes your hardshell last longer when you do it right as it keeps the fabric breathing properly, and reactivates its water repellency.
Cleaning Your GORE-TEX Jacket: Step-by-Step Process
Your hardshell has seen some action – everything from blizzards to muddy trails. Ready for a deep clean? This video breaks down how to wash, dry, and reproof your GORE-TEX jacket the right way:
These five steps spell out exactly what you need to know about caring for your jacket:
Step 1: Prep Work
Before your jacket lands in the washing machine, make sure to prep ir correctly:
Empty all pockets.
Close all zippers, including pit vents and main zip, plus all buttons, velcro, and loops – basically anything that connects or fastens.
Loosen drawcords to prevent tension.
Shake out loose dirt and dust or give the jacket a light pat-down.
This last step is crucial, as it protects your jacket from unnecessary wear while in the machine, and keeps grime from getting everywhere during the wash. Another key prep step: run an empty wash cycle before putting your jacket in to clear out any detergent residue in the drum.
Step 2: Choose the Right Detergent
Not all detergents work for functional clothing. For your hardshell, only use liquid detergent made specifically for outdoor or athletic gear. Make sure it's free of fabric softener, bleach and optical brighteners, as these ingredients can damage the membrane or attack the DWR treatment. Also skip powder detergents: They can leave residue in the fabric. And, most importantly: always check your jacket's care label first!
Step 3: Set The Program and Temperature
There's a huge myth that GORE-TEX jackets can't go in the washing machine. The truth is: regular washing can actually improve performance by effectively removing dirt and buildup. However, that doesn't mean you should wash it frequently – limit yourself to only cleaning it when it's actually dirty, or when washing it is an absolute must. Here's how to do it right:
Run an empty wash cycle before putting the jacket in
Water temperature: 86°F (cold wash or gentle cycle)
Program: Gentle, slow wash like delicates or permanent press, low spin speed between 400-600 rpm
Double rinse cycles to completely wash out detergent residue
If your machine doesn't have a double rinse setting, just run two rinse cycles back-to-back. You can also hand rinse afterward. What matters is getting all the soap out – that's how your jacket will keep its breathable properties.
Step 4: Into the Dryer
After washing, your jacket goes straight into the dryer – on low to medium heat for about 40 minutes. This completely dries the material while reactivating the DWR treatment on the outside. No dryer? As an alternative option, you can carefully iron the jacket on low heat without steam – use a towel between the iron and fabric. The heat also activates the DWR coating to ensure water keeps beading up properly.
Afterward, splatter some water drops on the shell. If the water beads up, the treatment is still working and you're good to go. If the water gets soaked up by the fabric, you need to refresh the DWR layer. More on that in the next step.
Step 5: Refresh the Treatment
If your jacket absorbs water instead of shedding it even after drying, it's time to refresh the DWR treatment. Here's how:
Choose a PFC-free reproofing spray made specifically for functional clothing.
Follow the care instructions on the product label for proper application.
Evenly spray the product on your clean, dry jacket, preferably outdoors – pay extra attention to high-wear areas like shoulders, hood, back, and sleeve attachments.
How Do I Store My Hardshell Jacket Properly?
Especially after a thorough clean, it's worth making sure the jacket is stored correctly:
Store it when bone dry: Before putting the jacket away, it has to be completely dry – including the inside of the pockets and the spots around the seams. Otherwise, there’s a chance mold will develop.
Don't scrunch it up: Ideally hang the jacket on a wide hanger so it keeps its shape and doesn't develop unnecessary creases.
Ventilated, cool, and dark: Choose a dry, light-protected spot. Direct sunlight can fade or age materials and coatings.
No vacuum bags or tight boxes: Breathable fabrics like GORE-TEX need air circulation. Don't store the jacket airtight or in a heavily compressed state.
With proper storage, your jacket not only will be ready for action when you are, but provide top performance in the long run – wherever your next outdoor adventures will take you.
FAQ: Common Questions About Caring for a GORE-TEX Jacket
How often should I wash my hardshell jacket?
That depends on how you use it: after strenuous trips or when it's visibly dirty, wash it ASAP. If you only use it sporadically throughout the year, just clean it when needed.
Can I handwash the jacket?
You can, but the machine usually does a better job. Most important: Make sure you rinse it really well after washing, whichever method you end up going for..
How can I tell my jacket is not water repellent anymore?
The fabric will absorb water rather than it simply rolling off the surface – that's your cue to reproof it.
Can I iron it to reactivate the DWR?
Yes, you can – just put a cloth between the iron and jacket, keep it on low heat, and skip the steam.
Can I throw multiple hardshells in together?
Yeah, no problem there – just make sure they have plenty of room to move around inside the drum.
Clean Hardshell Jacket = Better Weather Protection
Your hardshell jacket is your shield against wind, weather, and cold. With proper care, it stays light, functional, and durable. Washing, drying, and reproofing aren't complicated tasks – they're just part of keeping your gear in tip-top shape.
Want to learn more about GORE-TEX materials , or need advice on whether hardshell or softshell jackets work better for what you do? Check out our articles for all the details. Plus, in our Mammut shop you’ll find all the jackets plus outdoor clothing and gear you need – from shoes to sleeping bags , we've got everything to safely get you through your outdoor adventures.