Care of mountain clothing and equipment

Have you noticed that over time, wash after wash, your outdoor clothing loses its qualities? You notice, for example, that your waterproof clothing is no longer waterproof, and you think it's time to throw it away, which means you're spending a lot of money every year. But, if you follow a few practical tips and spend a little time on the care of mountain clothing and equipmentIf you are looking for a new product, you will find that these items can not only last for a long time, but you can also save a lot of money.

Mountain clothing and equipment were originally designed to withstand extreme weather and harsh treatment, but improper care will lead you to believe that they are not actually performing the function for which they were designed. 

In the care of mountain clothing and equipment, can I wash as normal?

Believe it or not, there is no doubt that some of the questions that athletes like you often ask when buying this type of garments and articles are: Can I wash this as I do all my clothes? With what product? How do I do it? However, the answers to these questions are right there in front of you, you just haven't taken the time to read the label on each product.

If any garment or equipment is not labelled, as a general rule, it is always advisable to hand wash or delicate cycle, mild detergent and do not twist, but some equipment does not even need to be washed, a little superficial cleaning will suffice.

Care of mountain clothing and equipment at the time of washing

Mountain clothing 

- Down and fibre jackets: Use a delicate wash cycle with mild detergent. Also, for this type of jackets that tend to lose volume, the trick is that when you wash them, do it with a couple of tennis balls, this will prevent the fibres or feathers from compacting.

- Waterproof-breathable jacket: Ideally, you can do a partial cleaning of the dirty areas, which are usually the collar and cuffs, as regular washing can cause it to lose the outer repellent that makes it waterproof. Don't worry, if it is so dirty that you have to wash it completely, do it with the general rule (hand wash with mild detergent) and apply a waterproofing spray, so it will be as good as new and will fulfil the function for which it was made. Always remember to stretch the hood and avoid heating or direct sunlight when drying.

- Polar fleece linings: These can be washed continuously in the washing machine, in a cycle for synthetic fabrics and not exceeding 30ºc. with a detergent that is not as aggressive but effective as traditional detergents.

- Trousers: Do this in the same way as fleece liners, except if they are made of cotton such as climbing or hiking models, where it is preferable to use the cotton or hand wash programme.

- Footwear: Boots are subject to a lot of abrasion and wear, but to take care of them make sure you brush off the dirt, and let them dry completely. Make sure you always keep them very clean, as mud can break down the materials of the boots, allowing water to enter. Air dry the insoles and apply waterproofing spray to protect them from water. For leather boots you may consider waxing, but bear in mind that in this case they will lose their breathable quality. 

Mountain equipment 

- Sleeping bags: in the care of the bagsIf you have a down coat, bear in mind that it is best to take it to the dry cleaners, another option is to wash it by hand in the bathtub, for example, laying it horizontally, so that the fat from the down does not migrate from the feet to the head. You should allow three to four days in which to hollow out the feather balls and redistribute them. Try not to wash them more than once a year. If the down is synthetic you can machine wash it. Either way of washing your sleeping bag is fine, you decide whether to go the long way or the short way. You may be interested in the following article in which we explain the process of washing your sleeping bag.

- Tent: It is not a good idea to wash them either by machine or by hand. If they are excessively dirty, clean them with a large sponge and let them dry completely. We leave you here an article in which we expand you concepts for taking care of your tent. 

- Backpacks: Avoid washing them, but if you need to wash them at all costs because of bad smells or liquids spilled inside, you can immerse them in a tub of cold water and let them air dry.

Care of mountain clothing and equipment when not in use

If you have already spent the necessary time washing, you will see that the care of the mountain clothing and equipment is very easy and effective if you follow the instructions. However, proper storage will not only ensure that all your mountain items will last over time, but also that when you have to leave home quickly, you can do so with the peace of mind that everything will be in perfect condition.

- Store your mountain clothing and equipment in a cool, moisture-free place, away from light. ideally direct and uncompressed.

- Waterproof-breathable, breathable, fibre and feather garments are best stored in bulky storage bags.This provides the garments with more ventilation.

- Storing clean and dry clothes.

- No folds always in the same places, as premature deterioration in these areas is inevitable.

Finally, it never hurts to remember to take special care at all times to close zips securely, not to overload backpacks and to watch out for sharp objects that can tear fabrics.