Forum menu
Last week I used Niwax to clean and then reproof my biking jacket.
To retain it's new waterproofing, do I have to wash it with Niwax cleaner or can it now be washed with regular deturgent?
I always use nikwax techwash or grangers. Use of normal stuff reduces breathing capabilities.
Don't use normal washing powder. Use Nikwax Techwash or similar. Or a cheaper alternative is to use soap flakes.
Chorlton is correct. Using a normal deteregent wont harm the jacket. However there is a small residue of detergent left after washin, and this is hydrophylic (absorbs water). It also impeeds the breathability as mentioned above. To prolong the life of your jacket i would was in a techwash (pure soap) and re-proof using something like a Tx-Direct reproofer (both made by nikwax). Applying heat, if possible, will give you a more durable and longer lasting finish....
Thanks guys,
I took your advice and cleaned it in the Nikwax again. Still seems very waterproof.
Thank you.