Maintaining your outdoor clothing

Our outdoor clothing accompanies us on all our adventures, protecting us from the elements and providing comfort and performance. Yet, its environmental impact is often underestimated. Did you know that use, and particularly washing, accounts for approximately 14% of a garment's total environmental impact ? Proper care not only maximizes its lifespan but also reduces its environmental footprint. Discover how to adopt the right practices to protect your equipment and the planet.

Caring for our outdoor clothing plays a key role in reducing its environmental impact . By washing it properly and making it last longer, we reduce the need to replace it frequently. However, producing new clothing is often energy- and resource-intensive.

When we love a piece of clothing, we take care of it. Whether it's a waterproof jacket that protects us in the mountains or a flannel shirt that warms us on cool evenings, each piece has a story. Extending their lifespan also means extending the memories and adventures they allow us to experience.

To care for your clothes while preserving their performance and durability, a few simple steps make all the difference.

When washing, use a temperature of 30°C on a short cycle , using an ecological detergent. It is recommended to space out washes as much as possible to limit wear on the fibers and extend the life of the textile.

Air drying remains the best option, both for your clothes and the environment. If tumble drying is unavoidable, choose a low temperature and a reduced spin cycle to minimize stress on fabrics.

Certain products should be avoided: fabric softener can clog waterproof membranes, while bleach alters both the colors and the structure of the fibers. By adopting these best practices, you can ensure your clothes last longer while reducing their environmental impact.

Technical jackets require special care to maintain their performance, particularly their waterproofing and breathability. According to Sympatex, the manufacturer of the waterproof membranes in our jackets, it's essential to follow a few best practices.

First of all, always follow the label instructions and wash on a "delicates" cycle, at 40°C or 60°C, with a detergent specially designed for technical textiles. It is important to avoid those containing bleaching agents and never use fabric softener, which could alter the properties of the fabric.

After washing, tumble drying at a low temperature will help reactivate the waterproofing, although air drying is still preferable where possible. Light ironing at 110°C (first setting) can also help restore the water repellency.

Finally, if you notice that water no longer beads up on your jacket, re-waterproofing is necessary. To do this, apply a specific treatment, either by spraying the product on the outside or by opting for a solution that can be applied directly in the washing machine.

By following these recommendations, you will extend the life of your jacket and maintain its performance throughout the seasons.

Properly caring for your outdoor clothing extends its lifespan and reduces its environmental impact. By adopting the right practices—gentle washing, air drying, and re-waterproofing—you optimize its performance and contribute to a more responsible consumption pattern.