Hunting requires specialized clothing designed to withstand harsh conditions and keep you concealed. But after a day in the field, that gear gets dirty – mud, blood, sweat, and more. Using the wrong detergent can damage your expensive hunting apparel, reducing its lifespan and effectiveness. This guide will explore the best detergents for hunting clothes, focusing on what to look for and why specific options excel. We'll cover everything from preserving waterproofing to removing stubborn stains, ensuring your hunting gear stays in top shape for years to come.
Choosing the Right Detergent for Your Hunting Gear
The key to cleaning hunting clothes lies in choosing a detergent that's gentle yet effective. Harsh chemicals can damage the fabrics, compromising their durability and performance characteristics like waterproofing and breathability. Avoid detergents with harsh bleaches or strong enzymes, which can degrade the fibers over time.
Key Features to Look For:
- Low-sudsing: High-sudsing detergents can leave residue in your washing machine, leading to buildup on your clothes. This residue can clog pores in waterproof membranes, reducing their effectiveness.
- Enzyme-free (or low-enzyme): Enzymes are great for breaking down stains, but some can damage certain fabrics found in hunting apparel, such as Gore-Tex or similar waterproof materials. Opt for detergents specifically designed for outdoor gear.
- No fabric softeners: Fabric softeners coat fibers, interfering with the breathability of hunting clothes. They can also reduce the effectiveness of water-repellent treatments.
- pH Neutral: A neutral pH detergent is less likely to damage delicate fabrics or irritate your skin.
- Biodegradable: Protecting the environment is important, especially when you're out in nature. Choose a biodegradable detergent to minimize your impact.
Top Detergent Choices for Hunting Clothes
Several detergents stand out for their effectiveness and gentleness on hunting gear. While personal preference plays a role, these are consistently recommended:
1. Nikwax Tech Wash:
This is a popular choice among hunters, particularly for its ability to clean technical fabrics without damaging their water-repellent properties. Nikwax Tech Wash is specifically designed for outdoor gear, making it a safe and effective option for your hunting clothes. It's low-sudsing, enzyme-free, and readily available online and in sporting goods stores.
Pros: Effective cleaning, preserves DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatments, environmentally friendly.
Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than conventional detergents.
2. Granger's Performance Wash:
Similar to Nikwax, Granger's Performance Wash is another excellent choice for cleaning hunting apparel. It's formulated to clean and maintain the performance of technical fabrics without stripping away water-repellent treatments. This detergent also works well on removing blood and other stubborn stains commonly encountered while hunting.
Pros: Excellent stain removal, preserves DWR treatments, effective on a range of fabrics.
Cons: Pricing is comparable to Nikwax, slightly higher than regular detergents.
3. Sportwash Detergent (various brands):
Several brands offer specialized "sportwash" detergents aimed at activewear and outdoor clothing. These typically meet the criteria outlined above – low-sudsing, enzyme-free, and gentle on fabrics. Look for brands that specifically state their suitability for waterproof and breathable materials.
Pros: Readily available, usually affordable compared to dedicated outdoor gear detergents.
Cons: Not all sportwash detergents are created equal; carefully check the ingredients to ensure they meet your needs.
Cleaning Hunting Clothes: Step-by-Step Guide
No matter the detergent you choose, following proper washing techniques will maximize the life and performance of your hunting clothes.
- Pre-treat stains: Before washing, treat any stubborn stains (blood, mud, etc.) with a stain remover or pre-wash solution.
- Turn garments inside out: This helps protect the outer fabric from abrasion.
- Use cold water: Hot water can damage fabrics and set stains.
- Follow detergent instructions: Use the recommended amount of detergent. Overusing detergent can lead to residue buildup.
- Air dry whenever possible: Machine drying can damage fabrics and reduce the effectiveness of DWR treatments. Hang your clothes to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
- Reapply DWR (if necessary): After washing, consider reapplying a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment to maintain the waterproofing of your gear.
Conclusion: Maintaining Your Hunting Gear
Choosing the right detergent is a crucial aspect of maintaining your hunting clothes. By selecting a low-sudsing, enzyme-free detergent specifically designed for outdoor gear, you'll protect your investment and ensure your clothes remain functional and comfortable for many hunting seasons to come. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's care instructions and prioritize air drying to preserve the performance of your hunting apparel. This will contribute to a more successful and enjoyable hunting experience.