How to Wash a Columbia Rain Jacket

Columbia rain jackets are available in a wide range of designs with different features. Most Columbia jackets are designed to be either water repellent or waterproof. They may also feature linings such as Thinsulate to provide insulation. When cleaning Columbia rain jackets, follow the manufacturer's directions, which are usually included on the hang tags when the jacket is purchased.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

How to Wash a Columbia Rain Jacket

Things You’ll Need:

mild detergent small brush cloth
mild detergent
small brush
cloth

Step 1

If there is dirt caked on the jacket, remove as much as possible with a brush.

Step 2

Treat heavy stains with a diluted solution of laundry detergent. Work the detergent into the stain and wipe the dirt away with the cloth.

Step 3

Set the washing machine on the gentle cycle and add the recommended amount of detergent for a small to medium wash load.

Step 4

Place the jacket in the washing machine, taking care to evenly distribute it around the tub of the machine and away from the center. This will help prevent twisting and possible damage to the jacket.

Step 5

Remove the jacket from the machine at the end of the wash cycle and hang it up to dry. Do not tumble the jacket dry, because the heat from the dryer may harm its water resistance, fabric or hardware.

Tips & Warnings

If there are no manufacturer's directions available, use the gentlest process available to wash the jacket to minimize possibile damage.

Do not dry clean waterproofed materials. The chemicals and materials used to make waterproof garments may be damaged to the point of becoming ineffective against rain and water.

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

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