DWR on Goretex?

[grnamin]

I've tried Nikwax, Revivex and now, Tectron. The latter seems to work the best. Nikwax and Revivex both require that the garment be wet from being laundered prior to application and the items then needs to be machine dried. One drawback of Tectron is that the fumes are toxic. Gotta apply in a well-ventilated area. What's your experience with durable water repellants and what's your favorite brand?

 

[donn]

I don't know about Revivex or Tectron but a couple of friends have had ok results from the Nikwax. Theres also a brand over here called 'Granger' which I used on my Berghaus jacket (?Aquafoil not Goretex) and that was useless.
You probabaly know this but Ive been told that the most important factor for retaining waterproofness and breathability is what you use to wash the garment with first. When breathable fabrics get dirty this affects the materials functioning. If you wash in ordinary soap powder, not only only will that not clean the jacket but it can also degrade the waterproofness and breathability of the jacket.
Nikwax sell a product designed specifically for washing breathable fabrics which Ive not yet had the chance to try on a couple of garments of mine, but Ive been told its the best way to restore lost waterproofness and breathability.
Hope this helps.
D.

 

[grnamin]

Originally posted by donn
Nikwax sell a product designed specifically for washing breathable fabrics which Ive not yet had the chance to try on a couple of garments of mine, but Ive been told its the best way to restore lost waterproofness and breathability.
Hope this helps.
D.

Nikwax Tech Wash. Yes, already use it.

 

[HJK]

Tectron is the best sprayon for me. I haven't tried the wash-ins, though.

 

[donn]

Originally posted by grnamin
Nikwax Tech Wash. Yes, already use it.

Thats what its called. cheers! couldnt remember the name. I was told you get best results if you use wash-ins and spray-ons in conjunction with each other. I suppose that may depend on the fabric though.
D.

 

[Size15s]

Washing waterproofs like GoreTex XCR with the correct washing products and washing methods is the best way to maintain the operational properties [keeping you dry in the rain] of your multi-hundred Dollar [Pound] waterproofing "system" investment.

My friends and I usually get our dirties together and wash & dry them in batches to save costs and trips to the laundrette. Certainly helps me because I don't have a drying machine. Whilst we're there we usually wash sleeping bags and fleeces with their own special wash products too.

Al