Cleaning textile gear

[yogi]

If anyone has cleaned their textile clothing, what did you use to clean it with and what were the results? Kind of have a buildup
of bug guts and miscellaneous grunge that I would like to get rid of before riding season. Thanks
 

[silverstripes]

Yes I put mine in washing machine, separately do to weight.

You can get a waterproofer to put in the machine. I prefer to hang mine up and then spray with nylon tent waterproofer. Works great and is a large can. purchase from outdoors store.

[yogi]

Ok thanks for the info.

[Wilko]

I did the same, well the wife did, washing machine, check on the temperature of the water, etc etc against the label, mine came out like new.
 

[brenchley]

I remove the armor, then wash on the gentle cycle with a mild laundry detergent.  Followed by hanging it up to drip dry.  I've been handling my textiles this way for years with no problems.

In between washings, I have access to a sanitizing machine which uses ozone to kill bacteria - I throw my textiles, boots and helmet in there periodically.  Helps to keep everything good.
 

[Coconut]

It may depend on what the garment has previously been treated with,
so I would CHECK with the manufacturer of the garment and follow
their recommended washing instructions.

e.g. Some garments should NEVER be washed with ANY trace of standard Detergent,
as this can remove existing waterproofing, so you would need to run the washing machine
on a cycle with no detergent in it first, to remove detergent residue.

Some specific cleaning products, such as Nikwax Tech wash can then be used in a washing machine
to clean and revitalise the existing waterproofing, and "Nikwax TX Direct Wash In"
if re-waterproofing of the garment is needed.

After use the machine should be run empty to flush out any remaining product,
before using it again for the "normal" laundry !

Cheers 

[yogi]

Thanks for the info Coconut. Finally found some info from mfg, hand washing is recommended. That Nikwax sounds good and they carry it in Canada, might check it out. 

[Jeffb]

If you're dealing with waterproofing, you probably need to heed Coconut's advise.  My jacket's not waterproof.  I have a laundry basket size tub that I put some laundry detergent, some "Shout" laundry stain remover, and just a couple drops of liquid dish soap (literally, just a couple drops).  Fill it with hot water and then put my jacket, minus the protectors, in and hand agitate a little.  I then leave it and let it soak for several hours.  Hand agitate a little bit more, then dump the tub and fill with clear rinse water for some more agitation.  Put it on a hanger and let it drip dry.  Washing machine may be less hassle, but the several hours of soaking is the magic.