Nikwax SoftShell Proof Wash In

Breathable soft-shell garments are most likely to get sweaty and wet inside when used in damp or wet conditions. If the outer fabric absorbs water, the garments can lose up to 70% of its breathability. Therefore, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) on the outer fabric of your soft-shell garment must be maintained to ensure comfort. It will eventually wear off and needs to be renewed with Nikwax SoftShell Proof Wash In.

Your soft-shell garment could be soaking up water just because it is dirty. First, try cleaning it with Nikwax TechWash®, and if its fairly new, or recently re-waterproofed, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) will be revitalised just from cleaning. But, once the garment has been thoroughly worn, you will need to add DWR, using Nikwax SoftShell Proof™, after cleaning it first with Nikwax TechWash®.

Using the right cleaning products is as important as using the right waterproofing product. Conventional detergents leave behind a thin water-absorbent film on materials, which masks their water repellency. Therefore, always clean your water repellent garments with Nikwax TechWash®. Remember that dirt itself works against water repellency, so regular cleaning will enhance performance.

300ml bottle capacity.

Reproofing softshell clothing will be necessary once the durable water repellency (DWR) has become diminished due to repeated use. DWR is a polymer-based, chemical compound treatment applied to the face fabric during manufacture. It works by lowering the surface tension of the fabric, this will in turn cause water droplets to bead up and roll off.

In time dirt, body oils, abrasion, and multiple launderings can reduce the effects of DWR. This will result in the fabric absorbing moisture more readily or ‘wetting out’. At this time reproofing your softshell with a quality DWR treatment will restore the garment back to its original moisture shedding capability. Fortunately, restoring your softshells DWR is relatively straightforward.

Reproofing your softshells DWR with Nikwax SoftShell Proof™ Wash-In

We recommend Nikwax SoftShell Proof Wash In for reproofing your softshell. Nikwax manufactures high-quality cleaning and weatherproofing products for outdoor clothing and equipment. SoftShell Proof™ Wash-In has been specifically designed and optimized for softshell garments; it leaves a flexible water repellent treatment on individual fibres allowing moisture vapour to pass through, maintaining breathability.

Nikwax weatherproofing products are water-based, non-aerosol, non-flammable, non-hazardous and environmentally friendly. They contain no harmful solvents or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and are completely free of fluorocarbons.

Nikwax SoftShell Proof™ Wash-In is easy and quick to apply in a washing machine, and its highly durable water repellency develops on air drying. The washing machine application ensures that the treatment goes right through the garment, treating seams, tapes and cords, as well as the fabric. Ensuring you reproof your softshell evenly and thoroughly.

Instructions on reproofing your softshells DWR

Before reproofing your softshell, understand that using the right cleaning product is as important as using the right weatherproofing product. Conventional detergents leave behind a thin water-absorbent film on materials, which masks their water repellency. Most detergents will also contain ultraviolet brighteners and fragrances that are unnatural in an outdoor setting, potentially having a negative impact on hunting situations. Therefore, before reproofing your softshells DWR, always wash your garments with Nikwax Tech Wash®. Remember that dirt itself works against water repellency, so regular cleaning will enhance performance.

For best results remove all non-washable parts and always clean item(s) first with Nikwax Tech Wash® in a separate wash cycle. No need to dry item(s) before weatherproofing.

Reproofing in Top Loading Machine Wash:

1. Place maximum of 3 garments in washing machine.
2. After the machine has filled add 10fl oz (300ml) of SoftShell® Proof.
3. Set cycle to Heavy and Warm, Low water level.

Reproofing in Front Loading Machine Wash:

1. Remove all detergent build-up from the detergent dispenser.
2. Place maximum of 2 clean garments in washing machine.
3. Add 3fl oz (100ml) of SoftShell® Proof per garment.
4. Run 30°C Synthetic cycle and slow spin.

Reproofing by hand:

Use gloves (to avoid waterproofing your hands!).

1. Immerse 1 clean garment in 6L hand-hot water in sink or bowl.
2. Use 2fl oz (50ml) of SoftShell® Proof.
3. Agitate to mix, leave to soak for 5-10 minutes, then agitate thoroughly.
4. Rinse with cold water until water runs clear.

Air or tumble dry on a low setting. To maintain weatherproofing always wash with Nikwax Tech Wash® before reproofing your softshell garments. Do not use detergents.