Modern technologies for the production of winter clothing make it possible to create warm, weightless and incredibly comfortable jackets, trousers and overalls that are suitable for sports and everyday wear. Refusal of natural fur in favor of synthetic materials is not only an environmentally friendly solution, but also greatly simplifies the care of products. One of the most interesting materials is the membrane layer. The properties of this fabric perfectly retain heat, while simultaneously allowing the skin to breathe and removing excess moisture. Since many winter down jackets now have such an additional layer, it will be useful to know how and with what to wash membrane clothing in the washing machine and what care rules must be followed to maintain the useful performance properties of the material.
Features of membrane fabric and clothing
Manufacturers of things for sports, mountaineering, tourism and other active types of human activity try to use fabrics and materials that are as light as possible, have good protection from the external environment (wind, rain), and retain heat.
When buying a thermal jacket, membrane socks and other clothes with rubberized fabric, we expect them to last us a long time, because such things are much more expensive than ordinary clothes.
Modern technologies have made it possible to create membrane fabric, which has become the basis for such clothing; caring for it is quite complicated, but not impossible, as many people think. Despite its unusual nature, this material can withstand washing even in a machine, the main thing is to use the right product.
The features of this matter are as follows:
- Clothing made from this fabric is suitable for both humid and warm climates and cold ones. It does not let moisture in from the outside and does not release the heat created by the human body.
- It is warm even despite its thin layer and light weight.
- By sweating, the secretions of the sebaceous glands will come out and not accumulate under clothes.
Features of the material
Membrane clothing has a rather complex structure
The membrane fabric has a perforated structure. The air heated inside the clothing expands and, under pressure, excess heat is released through the small cells of the material. At the same time, access to cooler air inside the clothing is blocked due to the lack of the necessary pressure outside. Thanks to this, the optimal temperature is constantly maintained inside the clothes and heat is retained.
The outer layer of membrane fabric is usually equipped with a special hydrophilic film. From the outside, the film does not allow moisture to pass through, but from the inside, steam molecules and sweat particles freely pass out through the layers of fabric. As a result, water does not get inside the clothes, while excess moisture is removed. The water resistance of the membrane material is also enhanced by impregnation with special compounds during the fabric production process.
Membrane properties
For manufacturers of membrane clothing, the main task is to use such technology not only for sewing sports equipment, but also for everyday things, because such material has many advantages.
If we take a waterproof membrane jacket and “saw” it into pieces, we will see matter that consists of the following:
- Outer fabric treated with impregnation to repel water.
- A membrane layer having a porous structure similar to a mesh.
- Fabric covering and protecting the membrane mesh from mechanical stress.
Thanks to all these layers, clothes made from such fabric become durable, light and comfortable. The previously listed properties of the membrane, namely breathability, heat retention and moisture protection, are necessary for clothing for people leading an active lifestyle.
The main “ingredient” of the membrane material is the finest mesh, the pores of which do not allow moisture to pass through, but, on the contrary, push them out when a person sweats.
Despite its excellent protection, this material can get dirty and will have to be washed.
Completing the process: impregnation
Applying a special product should become a mandatory ritual. It should be noted that a new jacket or suit does not require such actions. The protective properties of the membrane begin to decline only during wear. It was to restore the basic properties that the impregnating mixture was created.
These products are sold in liquid or aerosol form and can be applied to both dry and wet clothing. The basic principles of working with impregnation are as follows:
- Choose only in a specialized store, as different compositions can ruin the item.
- Apply the substance only to a clean product. Therefore, the best option is to apply it after washing and drying.
- Do not use too much product. Otherwise, it will clog the pores of the clothes and stop performing its functions.
- Leave the treated item in an upright position to dry. Do not put clothes that have just been processed into the closet.
High-quality compositions not only restore the lost properties of membrane items, but also provide them with long-term wear, as well as additional protection from contamination.
How to prepare material for washing
No matter how carefully we wear things, sooner or later the moment comes when washing is necessary. Likewise, things made from the membrane have to be washed, because the pores of this miracle film become clogged with the products of our sweat glands and lose their effectiveness.
Since it is very difficult to avoid contamination, the surface of the clothing has to be cleaned, but you need to be very careful with membrane fabric.
When you decide to wash the jacket membrane, do not forget that the film located among the protective material does not easily withstand high temperatures and aggressive phosphates contained in powders, bleaches or stain removers.
Of course, for fear of damaging the fabric with the wrong product or improper processing, you can avoid machine washing and constantly brush your clothes, removing surface dirt. Clogged pores of the membrane can lead to the fact that it will stop “breathing” and the purpose of the innovative material will be lost.
Preparing items made from membrane fabric before washing is as follows:
- All fasteners, buttons and zippers must be fastened.
- If the top layer is stained, try to rub the stain off or shake out the dust from the item.
- Washing is allowed only in warm water (temperature maximum 40˚).
- Wash miracle clothes separately from other clothes.
Popular membrane washing products
Today on the market there is a huge number of special washing products that were specially developed by manufacturers for maximum protection and maintenance of all-season membrane laundry. Since the range of these products is very large, we will consider and compare the most popular of them - most of them are water-based liquids and gels.
Daily wash – Laska
Washing gel “Laska Active & Fresh” is optimal for the membrane. Sold in liter plastic bottles with a convenient measuring cap. The chemical composition is designed for frequent washing of sports membrane clothing. It contains enzymes, phosphonates and liquid soap, as well as small amounts of preservatives and foam stabilizers. Can be used in both hand and machine wash. The optimum ratio of price and quality.
The weasel can “refresh” your clothes, but it doesn’t cope well with serious stains—it definitely can’t handle grass stains. After washing, things retain a specific aroma. It is quite pleasant, but somewhat intrusive, and therefore “Laska” should not be abused. It is not recommended for allergy sufferers.
Nordland – membrane balm
Nordland laundry detergent from German manufacturers is suitable for lovers of Decathlon and other outdoor activities. A plastic bottle, a convenient measuring cap, and a well-thought-out neck shape will prevent the product from spilling past.
The balm does not contain dyes and all kinds of fragrances - only soap, active and passive anionic components and enzymes. Does not irritate the skin. However, the product has a pungent odor.
The product preserves the structure and shape of clothing and does not damage the fibers of the membrane fabric. It copes well with heavy dirt and does not spoil the color of the product. Eliminates sweat odor rather than just covering it up. The aroma of the balm is sharp, but pleasant, disappears in two to three days - the smell of sweat does not appear.
Universal product Grangers 2in1 Wash & Repel
Liquid from UK manufacturers. The price is steep, but it's worth it if your time is valuable to you. Chemical composition: nonionic surfactants, fluorocarbon polymers and preservative.
Does not disrupt the functionality of the membrane, renews and restores the protective water-repellent barrier. Does not affect durability and does not deform clothing.
Deep wash shampoo Salton Sport
Packaging of Salton shampoo 250 ml. This product differs from others - increased foaming, which is effective in combating severe stains. Gently acts on membrane tissue, does not clog or injure it.
The composition includes: amphoteric, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants, dispersion polymer and sodium hydroxide. These components ensure deep penetration of the product and guarantee the removal of even tough stains.
Woly Sport – product for outerwear
Woly Sport is the best detergent for washing outer membrane clothing. Gentle care - the material does not deform, the membrane is not damaged, the pores are cleaned, the fabric remains soft and elastic, the color does not deteriorate. The gel foams easily, the consumption is economical and 260 ml of product is enough to wash the outerwear of the whole family. The smell is mild, and therefore allergy sufferers tolerate it satisfactorily - it dissipates quickly.
Despite the fact that the product foams strongly, there are no streaks on clothes - this is after 1-2 rinses. The membrane jacket retains its presentation for more than three seasons of wear.
Nikwax Tech Wash – liquid soap for membranes
This liquid soap is unique in its own way. It is absolutely non-toxic and does not have a pungent odor, which is greatly appreciated by asthmatics.
If you notice that the membrane of your overalls does not cope with its main function, then Nikwax Tech Wash liquid soap can solve this problem. If the loss of properties is caused by clogging of the pores of the climatic fabric with dirt, then the deep penetration of this composition, based on a soft alkaline environment, will carefully restore your favorite item. In addition, it contains a component that will refresh the water-repellent barrier.
However, do not expect a strong effect on cleaning the outer surface of the jacket - it cannot handle complex stains; additional measures are required here: soaking and local cleaning with a brush. In addition to this minus, it can be noted that this product is not cheap.
How to properly wash membrane clothes
In order for the miracle thing, as well as the membrane itself inside, to remain intact after contact with water, you must adhere to the washing rules.
Washing recommendations are as follows:
- Since sportswear is treated with a water-repellent impregnation, frequent washing is contraindicated. Such items should be washed no more than 2-3 times a year, otherwise the outer layer will begin to let moisture through.
- Washing membrane clothing with standard detergents (powder) is prohibited, since phosphates can damage the film, and the particles themselves get stuck in the pores, preventing further air exchange. Since washing with ordinary powder is prohibited, you need to choose a liquid product that is not harmful to the fibers.
- Use exclusively liquid detergent for washing membrane fabrics, without adding other detergents.
- To avoid damaging the film structure, set the washing temperature to no higher than 40˚, and use the program for delicate items.
- If you wash a membrane overall or jacket in a machine, do not forget to turn off the spin cycle, as it can tear the fibers.
Mandatory rules
If you wash membrane clothing correctly, it will last for many years and retain its purpose. The main rule to remember is that using powders is not recommended.
Therefore, to remove dirt and odors, you need to choose only liquid and specialized detergents, since even gels for washing ordinary things can contain substances that can destroy the membrane.
Many may wonder, why can’t the membrane be washed in a machine at higher temperatures? The fact is that the film can stick together under the influence of heat, thereby losing its qualities.
What happens if you wash the membrane with powder - how to restore it?
It is necessary to wash in a gentle mode and adhere to several rules. It is these rules that will allow you to preserve the jacket, as well as preserve its properties.
What happens if you wash the membrane with powder:
- Use only gel detergent.
- Do not wash clothes at temperatures above 40 degrees. At temperatures above this mark, the membrane simply melts.
- Never dry near heating sources or radiators. After all, hot air will contribute to the destruction of the fabric.
- Run the rinse several times, do not add conditioner or rinse aid.
- Cover the surface with a special water-repellent impregnation.
Washing the membrane
How to wash membrane clothes in a washing machine
Sometimes dirt on things cannot be washed by hand, just as the rhythm of life does not allow us to pay enough attention to washing things by hand. Therefore, in the modern world, we are accustomed to transferring the task of cleaning things to a machine, which does a good job of it.
But many, worried about damage to the miracle fabric, are afraid to wash jackets with a membrane in a machine, since this unit is considered a last resort.
There is nothing wrong with the chosen method of care; the main thing is to wash it in a certain mode, choosing the washing time and the appropriate temperature.
Washing membrane clothing in a washing machine involves the use of detergents, which can be the following substances:
- Nikwax Tech Wash. This product not only removes dirt, but also preserves the fabric’s ability to repel moisture and “breathe.”
- Woly Sport Textile Wash. This substance is considered universal, as it is suitable for all fabrics.
- DOMAL Sport Fein Fashion. The balm, which is intended for membrane clothing, does not damage the external impregnation and washes particles out of the pores well.
Is it allowed to use laundry soap?
One of the most affordable means for washing this type of clothing is regular laundry soap. Excellent solubility in water, good cleaning properties, neutral odor make it an indispensable assistant. Modern manufacturers produce laundry soap in liquid form, as well as in the well-known bar form. The product is suitable for both washing machine use and manual processing. When washing with laundry soap, it is better to use a liquid solution or prepare shavings by grating a piece.
On a note! The prepared shavings are added directly to the drum of the washing machine, and to completely remove any remaining detergent from the fabric, an additional rinse mode is set.
Drying
Membrane material is considered quite delicate and requires careful handling. Therefore, for clothes washed in a machine, we turn off the spin mode so that during high speeds we do not damage the structure of the film.
If you decide to wash your down jacket in a machine, you will have to wring out the product manually, after waiting until the excess moisture has drained out.
This can be done in several ways, depending on the type of washing:
- Leave the item to “sit” in the drum of the machine, waiting for the liquid to drain.
- Hang the wet product on a hanger to allow the water to drain, do not wait for it to dry completely.
What is prohibited?
Habitual actions when washing outerwear can destroy the membrane, so it is necessary to clearly indicate the manipulations that are prohibited:
the use of conventional washing powders clogs the holes with undissolved particles;- washing with chlorine-containing products destroys the structure of the material;
- intensive twisting and wringing lead to stretching of the product and the appearance of micro-tears;
- exposure to temperatures above 40⁰C (hot water and a hot iron) sticks the pores together.
Rules of care
Not only natural fabrics require careful handling, because an artificially created item is also very fragile and can be irrevocably damaged if handled incorrectly.
Therefore, if you own clothes made of membrane fabric, then caring for things of a similar structure must be carried out according to the following rules:
- Under no circumstances should you use chlorine, phosphate and sulfate-containing substances for washing.
- The membrane should not be washed frequently, as its ability to repel liquid and allow air to pass through will deplete.
- Use only special care products for this material.
- Do not wring out products in the machine and dry only indoors.
- If the item has been washed frequently, then you need to apply a water-repellent protective agent to the item in the area of the seams.
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How to wash a down jacket with a membrane?
How to wash the membrane by hand? If you are afraid to wash in a machine, you can clean up your clothes by hand washing. For these purposes, it is necessary to pour cool water into the bath, with a temperature no higher than 30 degrees.
How to wash a down jacket with a membrane:
- Dissolve a small amount of gel or detergent. Place the jacket in the solution for a few minutes, then scrub with a soft sponge. Do not rub too hard or pull the fibers in different directions. After this, rinse the jacket under running water and let it drain a little.
- You can hang it on hangers and dry it on the balcony, or on a horizontal surface for drying. Remember that how carefully you wash your jacket will determine its neat appearance. Such jackets should never be ironed.
- After all, at temperatures above 40 degrees the membrane melts. Accordingly, it’s not worth crushing them either. Therefore, dry very carefully, carefully straightening the folds on the hangers. If you wash in a machine, be sure to fasten all the buttons and zippers, and place the clothes in a special bag or pillowcase.
Remember that it is best to turn such a jacket inside out so that all the dogs and zippers do not scratch the surface of the membrane and spoil it. Do not spin, finish washing by draining the water.
Washing the membrane
Handwash
Cleaning by hand is the gentlest way to remove dirt . No pre-soaking is required before hand washing. The jacket washes perfectly without additional manipulation.
Prepare your jacket.- Fill the bathroom with warm water no higher than 40⁰C.
- Dilute the detergent.
- Dip the item into the prepared solution.
- Gently rub the contaminated areas by hand or with a brush.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water.
It is strictly forbidden to unscrew the membrane, so the liquid is allowed to drain freely. The jacket is then wrapped in a terry towel to remove excess moisture.
Additional recommendations
To avoid damaging membrane clothing, strictly follow the manufacturer's care recommendations.
Proper drying
The preservation of the properties of the membrane and the appearance of the product depend on whether things are dried correctly.
To avoid damaging the fabric:
- After manual cleaning, allow the water to drain freely. Don't twist the jacket, just leave it in the basin or at the bottom of the bathtub.
- When washing membrane fabrics in a washing machine, also avoid spinning. To remove excess moisture, wrap the item in a towel and gently pat dry.
- Lay the down jacket on a flat surface and straighten out folds and creases with your hands.
- Dry things in a warm room with good ventilation.
- Avoid direct sunlight and heating sources.
- Do not hang products on ropes, do not bend or crush them.
If you follow the recommendations, your outerwear will dry completely within 24 hours.
Ironing or steaming items made from membrane fabric is prohibited.
Impregnation of clothes
Treatment of membrane fabric with impregnating compounds is carried out at the production stage. During the process of wearing, washing, storing, the protective layer wears off and the material begins to get wet.
To restore impregnation, use special products in the form of a rinse or spray:
- Holmenkol Hightec Proof.
- Nikwax Tx. Direct Wash - In.
- Storm.
- Woly Waterproof.
- ToKo Proof, etc.
Holmenkol
Nikwax
ToKo Proof
Waterproof
Storm
Proceed according to the instructions on the bottle, do not exceed the dosage and do not wear things until they are completely dry.
Rules of care
Simple rules for caring for clothes will help to significantly extend the service life, preserve the beneficial properties of the membrane and the appearance of the fabric:
- Clean things regularly and protect them from dirt and dust.
- After 4-5 washes, treat the fabric with water-repellent impregnations to restore the protective layer.
- Choose detergents carefully, turn off the spin cycle, and do not use chlorine bleaches, stain removers, or fabric softeners. Monitor the water temperature.
- To remove stains better, pre-treat them with a brush and baby or laundry soap. But don't overdo it! The membrane material does not tolerate rough handling.
- Store things correctly: in a dry, clean closet without foreign odors and dust. In summer - in a protective case.
A children's or sports suit, down jacket, shoes or gloves with a membrane require high-quality care and careful handling. Delicate machine washing will help quickly remove dirt, stains and unpleasant odors. Manual cleaning will allow you to refresh the product, and high-quality and timely impregnation will preserve the unique properties of the high-tech material.
Manually
Other housewives and manufacturers, on the contrary, recommend processing such things manually. Because even delicate washing can damage the membrane layer.
Therefore, you should study the label before the procedure.
For hand washing, it is allowed to use laundry soap, baby shampoo or bathing gel. You can use any liquid products that do not contain chlorine. Due to the presence of chlorine in the detergent, the jacket will begin to get wet over time.
How to wash by hand:
- Check all pockets and check clothing for ripped seams. If there is fur, it must be unfastened or placed in a plastic bag and tied tightly so that water does not penetrate.
- Locks begin to rust over time due to constant exposure to moisture. The zipper and pawl can be protected from moisture using tape.
- Pour warm water into a large basin or bathtub. The temperature is the same as when washing in a machine.
- Pour in detergent and shake until foam forms. Then place the membrane jacket in the soapy solution.
- You need to start washing right away. Do not soak clothes. Do not rub the fabric together, take a soft brush or cloth and apply foam to problem areas. Such gentle cleaning will not lead to depressurization of the seams.
- Once the kurta has been washed, start rinsing. The water will have to be changed more than once to thoroughly rinse the detergent.
- There is no need to twist the jacket too much. Gently squeeze out the water and hang it on hangers so that most of the moisture flows into the bath. Then start drying.
Wash only one item at a time. Prolonged contact with water will not benefit the membrane.
Choice of funds
Choosing the right and high-quality product is very important. If you wash it with ordinary powder, it can lead to damage to an expensive item, because it consists of various sulfates and phosphates. Pores are also clogged with powder, and you may experience a loss of protective properties.
Membrane-containing fabric cannot be washed by other means:
- chlorine-containing. After their use, the micropores of the membrane expand. This will cause it to leak moisture from the environment. Water-repellent impregnation will dissolve even after a single application of chlorine;
- whitening and stain removing. Their effect on the membrane is similar to chlorine;
- It is also prohibited to use air conditioners. After using them, things will smell nice, but the quality of the membrane becomes significantly worse.
Experts advise taking care of membrane products yourself, without resorting to dry cleaning services. Customers cannot trace exactly how the product was washed. And you won’t be held accountable for a damaged item.
What means can be washed, you need to find out in advance so as not to harm the material. Experts recommend the following products to help remove dirt:
- The easiest way is to wash the item with laundry soap. First you need to grate the soap and then dissolve it in water. This method will help you quickly get the fabric clean.
- Use a special shampoo, which can be bought in the same place where the clothes were purchased. For example, Salton Sport and Domal Sport effectively clean sports products with climatic membranes. Usually add 20 ml of liquid to water.
- Liquid soap will help remove dirt on the membrane. It can get rid of heavy dirt and other powder residues. After washing with Nikwax techwash liquid soap, the membrane should be treated with impregnation. To avoid damaging the item, strictly follow the instructions.
- A special Denkmit Fresh Sensation gel helps to care for the membrane. It must be poured into a special compartment where dry powder is usually poured. The substance contained in the gel will not spoil the material, and it is also indispensable for care. With its help, the degree of water repulsion increases.
- You can wash things with concentrated Laska gel. It gives a unique aroma. But after its use, only small stains are removed.
It is better, when purchasing clothes containing a membrane, to consult with the seller on how to wash them correctly and what substance to add when washing.
