Breathable waterproof garments are most likely to get sweaty and wet inside when used in damp or wet conditions. If the outer fabric absorbs water, the garment can lose up to 70% of its breathability. Therefore, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) on the outer fabric of your jacket must be maintained to ensure comfort. It will eventually wear off and need to be renewed with Nikwax TX.Direct®.
Waterproof clothing needs to be breathable…
When we work hard, we sweat. The evaporation of sweat cools us down and keeps us comfortable. But, when it rains we want to avoid getting wet, so we put on waterproof outerwear to keep us dry. The waterproof fabric must allow moisture vapor to pass through it, or 'breathe'; otherwise our sweat cannot evaporate, causing us to overheat and get wet from condensation.
Additionally, if the outer fabric of your garment absorbs water and ‘wets out’ its breathability will be reduced, causing you to feel clammy and wet.
Use Tech Wash and TX,Direct when your waterproof clothing soaks up water
Your rain gear could be soaking up water just because it is dirty. Use Nikwax Tech Wash to clean it, and if it is fairly new, or recently re-waterproofed, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) will be revitalized just from cleaning. But, once the garment has been thoroughly worn, you will need to add DWR, using Nikwax TX.Direct, always cleaning first with Nikwax Tech Wash.
Cleaning properly can be as important as waterproofing…
Using the right cleaning product is as important as using the right waterproofing product. Conventional detergents leave behind a thin water-absorbent film on materials, which masks their Durable Water Repellency (DWR). Therefore, always clean your waterproof garments with Nikwax Tech Wash. Remember that dirt itself works against DWR, so regular cleaning will enhance performance.
How Tech Wash and TX.Direct work
Nikwax Tech Wash and TX.Direct are market leading products. They have been specifically designed and optimized for breathable waterproof fabrics.
Nikwax Tech Wash is a highly effective cleaner. Additionally it will revitalize existing Durable Water Repellency (DWR) and revive breathability. It is the safe way to thoroughly clean your waterproof clothing and equipment.
Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In has been specifically designed and optimized for breathable waterproof garments; it leaves a flexible water repellent treatment on individual fibers allowing moisture vapor to pass through, maintaining breathability Also, as the need for tumble drying is removed, this saves energy and protects more vulnerable, older, garments from heat.
Application in a washing machine is quick, easy, and ensures that the whole garment is thoroughly cleaned and waterproofed.
Use Nikwax Tech Wash in a washing machine…
Use undiluted Tech Wash® and a sponge, or soft nylon brush, to treat stubborn stains before washing. Remove all non-washable parts. Shake well before use. Follow garment care label instructions. Do not use detergents.
Top Loading Machine Wash:
- Place maximum 6 garments in washing machine.
- After the machine has filled, 5fl oz (150ml) for 1-3 garments, 8fl oz (250ml) for 4-6 garments, 8floz/250ml for 4-6 garments. Add an additional 1.5fl oz (50ml) for hard water* areas.
- Set cycle according to care label instructions. 1-3 items: low water level, 4-6 items: medium water level.
Front Loading Machine Wash:
- Remove all detergent from detergent dispenser.
- Place maximum of 2 garments in washing machine.
- Add 3fl oz (100ml) of Tech Wash®. Add an additional 1.5fl oz (50ml) for hard water* areas.
- Set cycle to Synthetics and Warm.
* If you have calcium and mineral deposits in your washing machine you have hard water.
Nikwax Tech Wash® can also be applied by hand...
Use gloves.
- Immerse item(s) in 1.5 gallons (6L) hand-hot water in sink or bowl.
- Use 5fl oz (150ml) in medium/hard water* areas and 3fl oz (100ml) in soft water areas for 1-2 items.
- Rinse 3 times in clean water.
Use Nikwax TX.Direct in a washing machine…
For best results remove all non-washable parts. Always clean item(s) first with Nikwax Tech Wash® in a separate wash cycle. No need to dry item(s) before waterproofing. Shake well before use. Follow garment care label instructions.
Top Loading Machine Wash:
- Place maximum of 3 clean garments in washing machine.
- After the machine has filled add 10fl oz (300ml) of TX.Direct®.
- Set cycle according to care label instructions, Low water level.
Front Loading Machine Wash:
- Remove all detergent build-up from the detergent dispenser.
- Place maximum of 2 clean garments in washing machine.
- Use 3fl oz (100ml) per garment.
- Run Synthetic cycle and slow spin.
Do not machine-wash garments if taped seams have become dislodged.*
To maintain waterproofing always wash with Nikwax Tech Wash®. Do not use detergents.
*Faulty taped seams sometimes become detached on old or worn garments. They can be re-stuck using a proprietary clear glue after waterproofing and drying.
Nikwax TX.Direct® can also be applied by hand...
Use gloves
- Immerse 1 clean garment in 1.5 gallons (6L) of hand-hot water in a bowl or sink
- Add 1.5fl oz (50ml) of TX.Direct®.
- Agitate to mix, leave to soak for 5-10 minutes, then agitate thoroughly
- Rinse with cold water until water runs clear
Nikwax TX.Direct® treated clothing needs no heat to develop Durable Water Repellency (DWR)…
Air dry or tumble on a low setting if care label allows.
