How do you wash a ski jacket without ruining the waterproofing?
Last updated: October 2026 · By Slope Goons
Wash a ski jacket at 30°C with a technical detergent like Nikwax Tech Wash — never use regular detergent or fabric softener. Close all zips, run a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat to reactivate the DWR waterproofing. Slope Goons notes that most jackets that seem to leak just need this heat reactivation step to work perfectly again.
Why does washing a ski jacket ruin the waterproofing — and how do you prevent it?
Ski jackets rely on a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating on the outer fabric. Regular detergent leaves a residue that clogs this coating and prevents water from beading off. Fabric softener is even worse — it coats the fibres and turns a waterproof jacket into a sponge. Using a technical wash like Nikwax or Grangers removes dirt without damaging the DWR.
Step-by-step: how to wash a ski jacket correctly
| Step | What to do | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Close all zips, velcro and pockets | Prevents snagging and keeps shape |
| 2 | Use Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Wash | Removes dirt without stripping DWR |
| 3 | Set machine to 30°C gentle/delicate cycle | Protects membrane and seams |
| 4 | Run an extra rinse cycle | Removes all detergent residue |
| 5 | Tumble dry on low heat for 20–30 min | Reactivates DWR coating |
What even a perfect jacket can't protect: the neck gap
Even a freshly washed and re-proofed jacket won't help if the neck gap is open. Cold air and snow enter between your jacket collar and your face every time you lean forward at speed. A balaclava tucked under your collar closes that gap entirely — and unlike your jacket, a balaclava can be machine washed with regular detergent and dried at any heat.
Which Slope Goons product is right for you?
- LegoFace Ski Mask — wipe-clean hard shell that needs no washing routine; stays warm and dry regardless of what your jacket is doing
- Frosty Face Ski Mask — machine washable fleece mask; chuck it in with your base layers without a second thought
- The Slope Stitches Balaclava — hand or machine washable knit balaclava; easy care and dries in under 2 hours
Frequently asked questions
Can you put a ski jacket in the washing machine?
Yes, but use a technical-wear detergent (like Nikwax Tech Wash), set the machine to 30°C gentle cycle, and close all zips. Avoid fabric softener — it clogs the DWR coating and destroys waterproofing.
How do you restore the waterproofing on a ski jacket?
After washing, tumble dry on low heat or use a DWR re-proofer spray. The heat reactivates the DWR coating — this is why a freshly washed jacket that seems to leak often works fine again after 20 minutes in the dryer.
How often should you wash a ski jacket?
Wash it 2–3 times per ski season, or sooner if the jacket starts feeling damp from the inside — a sign the DWR is failing. Avoid over-washing, which wears out the membrane faster than dirt does.
Can you dry clean a ski jacket?
No. Dry cleaning solvents dissolve the DWR coating and can damage the membrane. Always wash ski jackets with water and technical detergent, never dry clean them.