Your ski clothes are essential for staying warm, dry, and comfortable on the slopes. But after a season of skiing, they might need a good wash to remove dirt, sweat, and that lingering mountain smell. Properly cleaning your ski clothes helps maintain their performance and longevity.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to wash ski clothing, including ski pants and jackets, and answer some common questions to keep your gear in tip-top shape.
Can I Wash Ski Clothes in the Washer?
Yes, you can wash ski clothes in the washer, but there are a few important guidelines to follow. Always check the care labels on your gear first, as different fabrics and materials may require specific instructions. Most ski clothes are designed to be machine washable, but you should use a gentle cycle with cold water to avoid damaging the fabric or affecting any waterproofing treatments.
It’s also a good idea to use a mild detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals. This will prevent the fabric from breaking down and preserve the performance of any waterproof membranes.
How to Wash Ski Pants
Washing your ski pants is essential to maintaining their waterproof and breathable properties. Here's how to wash ski pants to keep them in great condition:
Pre-Cleaning: Before putting your ski pants in the wash, brush off any dirt, mud, or snow buildup. If there are any stubborn stains, pre-treat them with a stain remover.
Zip Up and Fasten: Always zip up the pockets and close the zippers to prevent any snags. Secure the waistband or Velcro straps to avoid them catching during the wash.
Machine Wash: Wash your ski pants on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild, non-detergent soap designed for technical fabrics to protect any waterproof coating.
Air Dry: After washing, hang your ski pants to dry. Never put them in the dryer as heat can damage the waterproofing and fabric.
How to Wash a Ski Jacket?
Your ski jacket works hard to keep you warm and dry, so it's important to wash it carefully. Follow these steps for washing your ski jacket:
Empty Pockets: Before washing, empty all pockets and remove any detachable parts, like fur trim or inner liners.
Close Zippers and Fasten: Zip up all zippers and secure Velcro flaps. This prevents them from catching during the wash cycle. You may also want to turn your jacket inside out, especially if it’s a lighter color, to protect the fabric and preserve the outer layer’s integrity.
Machine Wash: Wash your ski jacket on a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using regular detergent, as it can break down water-repellent coatings. Instead, opt for a cleaner specifically designed for technical gear or outdoor clothing. For jackets with down insulation, consider using a down-specific detergent.
Drying: To keep your ski jacket performing at its best, it’s crucial not to put it in the dryer unless the care label says it’s safe. Some jackets may be tumble-dried on a low, no-heat setting with a couple of clean tennis balls to help fluff the insulation. Otherwise, air dry your jacket by laying it flat or hanging it up.
How to Wash Ski Knitwear
Ski knitwear, including can get a bit worn after long days on the slopes or après-ski. To keep it looking fresh and feeling soft, it’s important to follow the right care steps.
For Merino wool garments, always hand wash them in cold water using a gentle wool detergent. Avoid wringing out the fabric, as it can distort the fibers. After washing, lay your knitwear flat to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area—steering clear of direct sunlight. Remember, never use bleach, fabric softeners, or dry cleaning on Merino wool, as these can damage the delicate fibers.
To preserve the longevity and performance of your Merino wool items, it’s best to wash them only when necessary. A gentle steam can often do the trick to refresh them.
For more detailed instructions, check out our full Merino Wool Care Guide.
How to Wash Ski Base Layers
Base layers are essential for staying warm and comfortable on the slopes, and proper care ensures they maintain their moisture-wicking properties and fit. Follow these steps for washing your ski base layers:
Check the Label: Always read the care label on your base layers to ensure you're following the correct instructions for the material, whether it's synthetic or Merino wool.
Wash in Cold Water: For both synthetic and Merino wool base layers, use cold water to prevent damage to the fibers. Wash on a gentle cycle to minimize wear.
Use Mild Detergent: Use a detergent that's designed for technical fabrics or outdoor gear. Avoid fabric softeners, which can clog the fibers and reduce breathability.
Air Dry: Always air dry your base layers by laying them flat or hanging them. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can damage the fibers and affect performance.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach or dry cleaning, as these can damage the fibers and affect the moisture-wicking properties of your base layers.
For more detailed care tips on maintaining your base layers, check out our Base Layer Care Guide.
Do You Wash Ski Clothes Inside Out?
Yes, turning your ski clothes inside out is a great practice when cleaning them. It helps preserve the outer fabric and any special treatments (like water resistance) by protecting them from direct contact with the detergent and agitation in the washing machine. It also helps get the inside of your ski clothes, like the lining and pockets, cleaner, especially if they’ve collected dirt or sweat.
For jackets and pants, turning them inside out ensures the most effective cleaning without compromising their performance features.
How to Wash a Smelly Ski Jacket?
Ski jackets can develop a musty or sour smell after a long day on the slopes, especially if they’ve been exposed to sweat and moisture. To wash a smelly ski jacket and keep it fresh, follow these steps:
Pre-Treat: If the smell is particularly strong, use a fabric-safe odor eliminator or spray the jacket with a mild vinegar solution (mix equal parts water and vinegar). Let it sit for 30 minutes before washing.
Wash as Usual: Use a detergent designed for technical fabrics to clean your jacket. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can coat the fibers and affect moisture-wicking and waterproof properties.
Dry Thoroughly: Ensure your jacket is completely dry before storing it. Dampness can lead to mold and mildew, which can cause lingering odors.
Regular Maintenance: To prevent smells from building up in the first place, wash your jacket regularly, especially after heavy use. Air it out after each wear by hanging it up in a well-ventilated space.
Can Ski Clothes Be Put in the Dryer?
In general, ski clothes should not be put in the dryer, especially those with waterproofing, insulation, or technical fabrics. The heat from the dryer can damage these features and reduce their performance.
However, some ski jackets or pants may have specific instructions that allow for low-heat drying, especially if they have down insulation. If the care label says it’s safe, you can use the dryer on a low or no-heat setting, but it’s always best to air dry your ski clothes whenever possible.
If you do choose to tumble dry, consider adding a couple of clean tennis balls to the dryer to help restore the fluffiness of the insulation.
How to Wash Salopettes?
Salopettes (or ski overalls) are a fantastic choice for full-body protection on the slopes, but they require special care to ensure they stay in great condition. Here's how to wash salopettes properly:
Check the Labels: Before washing your salopettes, always check the care label for specific instructions. Different brands and materials may require slightly different treatment.
Remove Any Excess Dirt: Brush off any dirt, snow, or debris from your salopettes before washing. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove the buildup. If you notice any stains, pre-treat them with a stain remover that’s safe for technical fabrics.
Fasten All Straps and Zippers: Make sure to zip up the leg zippers and fasten any straps, Velcro closures, or snap buttons. This helps prevent snagging and keeps the integrity of the fabric intact during the wash.
Turn Them Inside Out: Just like with ski pants and jackets, turn your salopettes inside out before washing. This protects the exterior fabric and the waterproof coating while allowing the interior to be cleaned more thoroughly.
Wash on a Gentle Cycle: Use a gentle, cold-water wash cycle. Choose a detergent designed for technical fabrics or outdoor gear. Avoid fabric softeners or bleach, as these can damage the fabric’s waterproofing and breathability.
Air Dry: After washing, hang your salopettes to air dry. Never use a dryer unless the care label explicitly states it's safe. The heat from a dryer can damage the waterproofing and insulation. Lay them flat or hang them up in a well-ventilated area to ensure they dry completely.
Reapply Waterproofing if Needed: Over time, the waterproofing on your salopettes may wear down. After washing, consider reapplying a water-repellent treatment to restore the water-resistant properties. There are sprays and washes available that can help revitalize the fabric and ensure your salopettes remain fully protective on the slopes.
Pro Tip: To preserve the performance of your salopettes, always air them out after each use. Allowing them to dry naturally prevents moisture buildup and helps maintain their breathability.
Cleaning Ski Clothes: Key Takeaways
Proper care for your ski clothes will extend their lifespan and ensure they continue to perform well season after season. Here's a quick recap of the key tips:
Machine-wash your ski clothing on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
Turn your gear inside out to preserve the outer layers and maintain waterproofing.
Air dry your ski jacket and pants. Avoid the dryer unless the care label specifically allows it.
Pre-treat stains and odors with fabric-safe solutions, and always wash regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and smell.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your ski clothes stay clean, functional, and ready for your next adventure on the slopes.
