Quality outdoor clothing is built to withstand tough conditions, but proper care will help it perform at its best for longer. Whether you're wearing waterproof jackets, walking trousers, fleeces or technical outdoor layers, following a few simple care steps can extend the life of your clothing while maintaining comfort, breathability and weather protection.
This guide will help you care for your Craghoppers NosiLife garments so they remain comfortable, durable and reliable in the outdoors. Below is a full, up-to-date care guide based on Craghoppers own recommendations.
Wash Less, Wear More
Outdoor clothing doesn't always need frequent washing. Mud can often be brushed away once dry, and minor marks can be removed with a damp cloth or sponge. Washing only when necessary helps preserve fabrics, coatings and technical performance.
Before Washing:
- Empty all pockets
- Close zips, buttons and hook-and-loop fastenings
- Brush off loose dirt and mud
- Check the care label for garment-specific instructions
Taking a few moments to prepare your clothing helps reduce wear during the wash cycle.
Wash at Low Temperatures
Most outdoor clothing performs best when washed at 30°C using a gentle cycle.
Recommended Washing Tips:
- Use a mild detergent or specialist technical wash
- Avoid bleach and fabric softeners
- Wash waterproof garments separately where possible
- Follow care label instructions at all times
Fabric softeners can reduce breathability and affect water-repellent finishes, making them unsuitable for technical outdoor clothing.
Dry Naturally Where Possible
Air drying is the best option for most outdoor clothing.
Best Practice:
- Hang garments on a clothes airer or washing line
- Allow them to dry naturally
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight when possible
Line drying helps reduce energy use, prevents unnecessary fabric stress and can minimise fading.
Using a Tumble Dryer
If the care label allows tumble drying:
- Use a low heat setting
- Dry only as long as necessary
- Avoid excessive heat
Low heat can also help reactivate water-repellent finishes on waterproof garments.
Avoid Ironing and Dry Cleaning
Many modern outdoor fabrics are designed to be low maintenance.
Ironing
Most technical garments do not require ironing. Simply smooth and fold clothing before storage to minimise creasing.
Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning is generally unnecessary for everyday outdoor clothing and may affect specialist treatments on some garments. Always check the care label before considering professional cleaning.
Maintaining Waterproof Clothing
Waterproof jackets and trousers rely on a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish to help water bead and run off the fabric surface.
Signs Your DWR Needs Attention:
- Water no longer beads on the fabric
- The outer fabric begins to wet out
- Breathability appears reduced
These are normal signs of wear and do not necessarily indicate that the waterproof membrane has failed.
Reproofing Waterproof Garments
When water stops beading effectively:
- Wash the garment according to the care label.
- Apply a wash-in or spray-on reproofer.
- Tumble dry on low heat if permitted.
Reproofing helps restore water repellency and prolongs the performance of waterproof clothing. Depending on use, this may only be required once a year.
Reduce Microfibre Shedding
Technical clothing can release microfibres during washing.
To help reduce environmental impact:
- Use a washing bag designed to capture fibres
- Wash garments only when necessary
- Choose shorter wash cycles where appropriate
These simple steps can help reduce fibres entering waterways.
Store Your Outdoor Clothing Correctly
Good storage habits help maintain garment performance.
Storage Tips:
- Ensure clothing is completely dry before storing
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Avoid damp environments
- Hang waterproof jackets where possible to maintain shape
Proper storage reduces the risk of mould, odours and fabric degradation.
Looking After Your Outdoor Gear
A little care goes a long way. Washing at lower temperatures, air drying where possible and maintaining water-repellent finishes will help your outdoor clothing stay comfortable, protective and adventure-ready for years to come. Whether you're hiking, travelling, working outdoors or exploring the countryside, proper care ensures your gear performs whenever you need it.
NOTE: These tips are general advice only - every item is a bit different. ArdMoor can’t take responsibility for any mishaps, so always patch-test products first and follow Craghoppers own care guidance where you can.