After The Repair

Care Guides &
Maintenance

Maximize the lifespan of your outdoor equipment with straightforward washing and storage routines. Keep your gear performing season after season.

Essential Knowledge

Material Maintenance

Washing a technical waterproof shell

Washing Waterproofs

Dirt and body oils clog the breathable membrane of your technical shells. Regular washing with specialized non-detergent cleaners restores breathability and reactivates the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish.

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Uncompressed sleeping bag hanging

Loft Preservation

Never store sleeping bags or insulated jackets in their stuff sacks. Prolonged compression damages the down clusters or synthetic fibers, permanently reducing their ability to trap heat.

Tent Fabric Care

Always ensure your tent is completely bone-dry before long-term storage. Mildew destroys polyurethane coatings rapidly. If the fabric gets dirty, spot clean with a sponge and lukewarm water—never machine wash.

Stitching & Zippers

Keep zippers clear of grit to prevent slider wear. Brush them out gently after muddy trips. For stitched repairs, avoid applying direct high heat from an iron, which can melt the protective backing tape.

The Process

How to Wash & Reproof Shells

01

Prepare & Zip

Empty all pockets, close main zippers, and fasten all hook-and-loop cuffs. Leave pocket zippers slightly open to allow water flow. Loosen all elastic drawcords. This prevents damage to the fabric and hardware during the spin cycle.

02

Technical Wash

Clean the detergent dispenser of your washing machine to remove any standard powder or liquid residue. Wash the garment at 30°C on a gentle cycle using a dedicated technical gear cleaner. Never use fabric softeners or bleach.

03

Heat Activation

Once washed, the DWR finish often needs heat to reactivate. Tumble dry the garment on a low, gentle heat setting for 20-30 minutes. If a tumble dryer isn't available, iron the dry garment on a low setting with a towel placed between the iron and the fabric.

Close up of a repaired outdoor jacket seam
Post-Repair Handling

Respecting the Stitch

When your equipment returns from our workshop, the new seams, patches, and replaced panels are built to withstand rugged environments. However, the initial integration of tape and fabric benefits from careful handling during its first few uses.

  • Avoid harsh scrubbing directly over newly seam-taped areas.
  • Do not apply direct concentrated heat (like a campfire ember) near synthetic patches.
  • Allow wet repaired areas to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated space.
Get in Touch

Ask the Repair Experts

Not sure how to wash a specific vintage piece? Unsure if a stain will affect the membrane? Reach out to our team directly. We are here to help you extend the life of your equipment.