Do you need to know how to wash a windbreaker? Don’t worry! I’ve broken it down into a handy list of steps below:
Now your windbreaker should be fresh and clean! If you’d like more detail on some of these steps, tips on products to avoid using on your windbreaker, and instructions on how to remove tough stains, keep reading!
Which detergents are not safe to use on my windbreaker?
According to Eazihome Laundry, any detergents containing bleach, whitener, stain removers, or enzymes are not suitable for your windbreaker. Windbreakers and other waterproof or water-resistant items are often coated in chemicals that can react with specific components in detergents.
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You should also never use dryer sheets or fabric softeners on your windbreaker. Windbreakers can’t be dry-cleaned, either!
Which detergents are best for my windbreaker?
Non-chlorinated detergents are best to use, as these won’t break down any chemical coating that may have been used on your windbreaker.
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If you’re unsure what to use, remember to always check the label on your windbreaker for specific cleaning instructions!
How can I get stubborn stains out of my windbreaker?
Flatten out your windbreaker (if the fabric isn’t flat and warm water is applied, the material could become permanently warped) and apply your chosen detergent with a bit of water, making circular motions over the stained area. Be gentle, as aggressive scrubbing may damage the fabric!
Let this solution sit on the windbreaker for a few minutes. Repeat this as many times as necessary to lift the stain. Once you’re finished, you can proceed with putting your windbreaker in the wash as detailed in the above steps.
Why should I wash my windbreaker in a mesh bag?
The bag will protect your windbreaker from getting torn in the washing machine. The material of your windbreaker is relatively thin, and most jackets have various zippers, strings, or other attachments hanging off of them. All of these run the risk of getting caught in your washing machine and ruining your windbreaker—that’s the last thing you want!
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Another way to prevent snags is by adjusting all zippers and cuffs before washing. The metal teeth on exposed zippers can cause damage to the fabric, so keeping the jacket zipped up and flipping it inside out helps your windbreaker retain its shape and integrity.
Why can’t I wash my windbreaker in hot water or tumble dry using high heat?
Hot water can damage the fabric of your windbreaker, creating warping or permanent lumps—if it doesn’t melt your windbreaker, that is.
Many windbreakers are made of nylon, and some nylon fibers can melt at high temperatures, this will turn washing in hot water and high heat drying into a disaster!
Why might there be residue on my windbreaker after washing?
Due to some windbreakers’ water-resistant or waterproof quality, detergent may stick to the outside surface of the jacket.
According to iFixit, running your windbreaker through at least one rinse cycle after washing is a great way to prevent this!
If detergent residue or excess moisture gets stuck to the outside of your jacket, this may harm the fabric in the long term or create unsightly lumps.
Should I wring excess water out of my windbreaker before drying?
Wringing your windbreaker out is not recommended. However, it is essential to remove excess water to avoid trapping moisture inside the fabric.
Wringing your windbreaker out is not recommended
You can do this effectively and gently by patting the excess water out of the jacket while placing it between two towels.
Can I handwash my windbreaker?
Sure! If you’d like to avoid putting your windbreaker through the washing machine, you can opt for the gentle handwashing method.
First, be sure to select the proper detergent before adding your windbreaker to a sink full of warm—but not hot—water.
Next, massage the garment until suds form, then soak it for about five minutes.
Finally, rinse and dry!
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