Arcteryx jackets have made a name for themselves for being able to withstand more abrasion than their counterparts while also allowing more freedom of movement when wearing them.
However, the quality of their jackets comes at a steep price, so you need to take care when you wash the jackets.
Arcteryx produces different types of jackets, and the washing methods for each jacket differ due to the difference in fabric. This article will show how you can wash the different types of Arcteryx jackets.
How To Wash an Arcteryx Down Jacket
The Arcteryx Down Jackets are very capable winter jackets due to their insulation system, which traps heat efficiently.
The makeup of Down Jackets, especially natural Down, makes them highly technical to wash. You can either HandWash your Arcteryx Down Jackets or use a washing machine.
Note: Although Down Jackets share similarities in their structure, always remember to follow fabric care instructions when washing your jacket.
How to Hand Wash Your Arcteryx Down Jacket
Washing machines will give you a more suitable wash, but not all machines are good for Down Jackets.
Top loading machines with central agitators exert too much force on the Down fabric and are more likely to spoil the jacket.
Front-loading machines are preferable as they don’t usually come with a central agitator. If you don’t have access to this type of machine, then it is safer to hand wash your jacket.
Below are the steps to take when washing your Down Jacket by hand
Step One: Empty All Pockets of Your Jacket
Ensure no objects in your pockets can damage the Down fabric during the washing process.
Step Two: Fill a Large Tub or Sink With Warm Water
Ensure the water is up to two-thirds of the tub to submerge the jacket completely. Add a mild detergent and soak for 30-60 minutes.
Step Three: Gently Rub the Jacket With Your Palms
Avoid vigorously scrubbing the jacket to avoid tearing and other sorts of damage. Instead, gently rub the jacket together to remove stains.
Target stain-prone areas such as the armpit and scuff regions. Also, if there are areas with prominent stains, concentrate on them.
Step Four: Rinse and Dry the Jacket
Once you are through with washing, rinse the jacket in plain water until all soapy residues are gone. Carefully squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing it.
Place the jacket in a dryer on a low heat setting. Add some dryer balls or tennis balls to avoid clumping of the jacket.
Endeavor to take out the jacket every fifteen minutes to fluff it and return it to the dryer until it is totally dry. Your jacket should be dry in two hours.
How to Wash An Arcteryx Down Jacket Using a Washing Machine
A front-loading washing machine without central agitators is better for washing Down Jackets. If you have access to one, take the steps below to wash your Down Jacket.
Step One: Prepare Your Jacket for The Washer
Before placing the jacket in a washing machine, check all pockets so there is nothing to damage the jacket during washing.
Also, zip up and fasten every velcro strap to ensure that nothing gets caught up in the fabric during the laundry process.
You can also place the jacket into a mesh bag to further minimize the risk of damage.
Step Two: Fill the Washer With Warm Water and Detergent
Always use warm water (not hot water) when washing your Down Jackets. Also, ensure you use Down-specific detergent like NikWax or Nu Care products.
Step Three: Place the Jacket in the Washer
Place the jacket into the washing machine and set the machine to a low heat setting and a gentle wash cycle.
Once the wash cycle is complete, start the rinse cycle with cold water. Repeat the rinse cycle until all detergent residue is completely gone.
Apply water repellent coating if necessary to maintain its water-resistant qualities.
Step Four: Put the Jacket in a Dryer
Although you can air-dry your jacket, Arcteryx recommends that you use a dryer. Always set your dryer to a low heat setting.
Place a couple of dryer balls or tennis balls to prevent clumping and tumble dry until all moisture is completely gone.
Don’t forget to remove the jacket every fifteen minutes to fluff up and break up clumps. The jacket should be dry in about two hours.
How to Wash Arcteryx Gore-Tex and Waterproof Jackets
Gore-Tex and Waterproof Jackets are going to keep you dry on wet days. They are also lightweight and breathable, making them practical for outdoor use.
To ensure that your hardshell jackets last as long as possible, you need to follow the steps below:
Step One: Prepare the Jacket Before Washing
As with other jackets, remove every item from the jacket pockets. Also, fasten all velcro straps and zip up every jacket pocket.
Also, quickly do a spot cleaning exercise for any significant stains. Use a soft white cloth dipped in water to gently scrub on the stains.
Finally, turn the jacket inside out to ensure a better washing experience and to protect the jacket from damage.
Step Two: Place the Jacket in the Washing Machine
Fill the washer with warm water and set the machine to mild temperatures of about 30°C-40°C (86-104°F). Use a regular wash cycle and specialized liquid detergent.
Once the wash cycle is complete, rinse in cold water until there is no more detergent residue. Arcteryx recommends double rinsing the jacket to make sure.
Step Three: Apply DWR Coating if Necessary
Gore-Tex, Rain Jackets, and other hardshell jackets are great for repelling water, and they cause them to form beads on their surface before falling off.
If you notice that your jacket is beginning to allow water to soak through, then it’s time to apply a DWR coating on the jacket. Always do it after washing the jacket, as the detergent can cause it to wash off.
Hang the jacket on a rack and apply a good DWR spray all over the jacket, focusing on the parts prone to abrasion.
Step Four: Drying the Jacket
After washing, rinsing, and applying DWR coating, you should place your jacket into a dryer on a low to medium heat setting.
Run the dryer for about 40 minutes or until you can feel that the jacket is completely dry.
How to Wash Arcteryx Softshell Jackets
Softshell jackets may not keep you warm during freezing temperatures, but they are suitable for mild weather and can keep you cool and comfortable during physical activities.
Here are the steps you can take to wash your softshell jackets:
Step One: Prepare the Jacket for Washing
Again, you can prepare the jackets by removing every item from the pockets and closing them up to prevent them from catching the jacket’s shell during washing.
Turn the jacket inside out to protect the jacket’s fabric and ensure a more thorough wash.
Step Two: Prepare the Washing Machine
Using a front-loading washing machine to minimize damage to your jacket is better. Set the machine to a low-temperature setting. Also, use a gentle to normal wash cycle when washing softshell jackets.
Use any mild bleach-free detergent and add a DWR coating if the fabric care label recommends it.
Step Three: Dry the Jacket Properly
Unlike Down and Hardshell Jackets, softshell jackets do not do well with dryers; it is better if you air-dry them.
Place the jacket on a sturdy hanger and place them in a well-ventilated area of your apartment to dry. Drying should take about 24 hours.