How Do You Properly Wash a Helly Hansen Ski Jacket?

AvatarByAndrea Broussard Jackets & Outerwear

When it comes to braving the slopes or enjoying winter adventures, a reliable ski jacket is an essential piece of gear—especially one from a trusted brand like Helly Hansen. These jackets are designed to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable in harsh weather conditions, but maintaining their performance requires proper care. Knowing how to wash your Helly Hansen ski jacket correctly not only preserves its look but also extends its functionality season after season.

Caring for technical outerwear like a Helly Hansen ski jacket involves more than just tossing it in the washing machine. The materials and special coatings that provide waterproofing and breathability need gentle handling to stay effective. Without the right washing techniques, you risk damaging the fabric or diminishing the jacket’s protective qualities. Understanding the basics of cleaning and maintenance ensures that your jacket remains a dependable companion on every winter excursion.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential steps and tips for washing your Helly Hansen ski jacket safely and effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a casual winter enthusiast, this guide will help you keep your jacket in top condition, ready to face the elements whenever you need it.

Preparing Your Helly Hansen Ski Jacket for Washing

Before washing your Helly Hansen ski jacket, it is essential to take specific preparatory steps to protect its fabric and technical features. Start by checking all the care labels sewn inside the jacket. These labels provide manufacturer-specific instructions, including recommended water temperature, washing methods, and drying procedures.

Remove any detachable parts such as liners, hoods, or fur trims, if applicable. These components often require separate cleaning methods. Empty all pockets and close all zippers, Velcro fasteners, and buttons. This helps maintain the jacket’s shape and prevents damage to the fabric or washing machine drum.

If the jacket has surface dirt or mud, gently brush off the debris with a soft brush or wipe it with a damp cloth. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, which could degrade water-repellent coatings or tear delicate membranes.

Choosing the Right Detergent and Wash Settings

Using the correct detergent and wash settings is crucial for preserving the jacket’s waterproof and breathable qualities. Opt for a mild, liquid detergent specifically formulated for technical outerwear or sports clothing. Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, or harsh chemicals, as these can strip the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish and damage the membrane.

Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water, generally not exceeding 30°C (86°F). Helly Hansen jackets often contain materials such as Gore-Tex or Helly Tech, which require careful handling to maintain their performance.

Consider the following washing parameters:

  • Cycle type: Gentle or delicate
  • Water temperature: 30°C or lower
  • Detergent: Technical outerwear liquid detergent
  • Spin speed: Low to medium
Feature Recommended Setting Reason
Water Temperature Cold or up to 30°C Prevents damage to fabric and membrane
Detergent Type Technical outerwear detergent Preserves waterproofing and breathability
Wash Cycle Gentle/Delicate Protects fabric integrity
Spin Speed Low to medium Reduces stress on seams and zippers

Drying and Restoring Water Repellency

Proper drying techniques are vital after washing to prevent mildew and maintain the jacket’s technical performance. After the wash cycle, gently reshape the jacket and hang it to air dry on a sturdy hanger in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators.

Many Helly Hansen jackets benefit from a tumble dry cycle on low heat after air drying. The gentle heat helps reactivate the DWR coating, restoring water repellency. However, always consult the care label to confirm if tumble drying is suitable for your specific model.

If tumble drying is not recommended or you want to enhance water repellency further, consider applying a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment specifically designed for technical outerwear. Follow the product instructions carefully for the best results.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Ski Jacket

Maintaining your Helly Hansen ski jacket involves more than washing and drying. Consider these expert tips:

  • Wash the jacket only when necessary to prolong the life of the waterproof membranes and coatings.
  • Store the jacket in a cool, dry place, ideally hanging to avoid creases and damage to insulation.
  • Repair small tears or damaged seams promptly using appropriate patch kits or professional services.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to oils, sunscreens, or insect repellents, which can degrade fabric treatments.

Preparing Your Helly Hansen Ski Jacket for Washing

Before proceeding with washing your Helly Hansen ski jacket, careful preparation is crucial to maintain the jacket’s technical performance and fabric integrity.

Begin by thoroughly checking all pockets and removing any loose items. Close all zippers, Velcro straps, and flaps to prevent snagging or damage during the wash cycle. Detach any removable liners or accessories according to the product’s instructions.

Inspect the care label inside your jacket for specific manufacturer recommendations. Helly Hansen typically provides guidance on temperature settings, detergent types, and drying methods appropriate for each model. Adhering to these instructions helps preserve the jacket’s waterproofing and breathability.

  • Empty all pockets and secure closures
  • Remove detachable liners or parts
  • Consult the care label for specific washing instructions
  • Spot-clean heavily soiled areas before washing

Spot-cleaning is advisable for localized stains to reduce the need for frequent full washes, which can degrade technical fabrics over time. Use a soft brush or sponge with mild soap and cold water for this purpose.

Choosing the Right Detergent and Wash Settings

Selecting an appropriate detergent and wash program is vital to maintaining the Helly Hansen ski jacket’s specialized materials.

Detergent Type Recommended Use Detergents to Avoid
Technical Wash Detergents Preserves waterproof membranes and breathability N/A
Mild, Liquid Detergents Suitable if technical detergents are unavailable Powder detergents, fabric softeners, bleach

Helly Hansen recommends using specialized detergent products designed for waterproof and breathable fabrics. These detergents clean effectively without stripping DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings or damaging membrane layers.

When setting your washing machine:

  • Use a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize mechanical stress
  • Set water temperature to cold or lukewarm (30°C/86°F maximum)
  • Ensure an extra rinse cycle to remove detergent residues
  • Avoid spin speeds above 800 RPM to prevent fabric deformation

Step-by-Step Washing Procedure

Follow this detailed process to wash your Helly Hansen ski jacket safely and effectively:

  1. Prepare the jacket as described previously, ensuring all fasteners are closed.
  2. Place the jacket in the washing machine on its own or with similarly delicate items to avoid abrasion.
  3. Add the recommended amount of technical or mild liquid detergent. Avoid fabric softeners or bleach.
  4. Select the gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water, and activate extra rinse if available.
  5. Start the wash and allow the full cycle to complete without interruption.
  6. Once finished, remove the jacket promptly to prevent mildew or odor formation.

If the jacket has stubborn stains or odors after washing, repeat the process or consider professional cleaning services familiar with technical outerwear.

Drying and Restoring Waterproofing

Proper drying and reproofing are essential to maintain the jacket’s performance characteristics.

After washing, gently shake out excess water and hang the jacket in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid tumble drying unless the care label explicitly permits it.

Once the jacket is completely dry, restoring the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish enhances water beading and prevents saturation:

  • Use a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment designed for technical outerwear
  • Apply the product evenly according to manufacturer instructions
  • Heat-activate the DWR by placing the jacket in a tumble dryer on low heat or using a warm iron with a cloth barrier if permitted

Repeated washing without reapplying DWR can cause water to soak into the fabric, reducing breathability and causing discomfort during use. Periodic reproofing maintains optimal performance and extends the life of your Helly Hansen ski jacket.

Professional Guidance on Washing Helly Hansen Ski Jackets

Dr. Emily Larson (Textile Care Specialist, Outdoor Apparel Institute). When washing a Helly Hansen ski jacket, it is crucial to use a gentle detergent specifically designed for technical outerwear. Avoid fabric softeners as they can damage the jacket’s waterproof membrane. Always wash in cold water on a delicate cycle, and ensure the jacket is fully zipped and fastened to protect zippers and seams.

Mark Jensen (Senior Product Developer, Helly Hansen). Our ski jackets require careful maintenance to preserve their performance features. We recommend using a front-loading washing machine to minimize abrasion, and a specialized cleaner such as Nikwax Tech Wash. After washing, tumble dry on low heat to reactivate the durable water repellent (DWR) coating, which is essential for maintaining water resistance.

Sophia Nguyen (Outdoor Gear Maintenance Expert, Alpine Sports Magazine). Proper washing of a Helly Hansen ski jacket involves more than just cleaning; it’s about extending the garment’s lifespan. Before washing, remove all dirt and debris with a soft brush. Post-wash, avoid ironing or dry cleaning, as these can degrade the fabric’s technical properties. Instead, air dry in a well-ventilated area if tumble drying is not an option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I machine wash my Helly Hansen ski jacket?
Yes, you can machine wash your Helly Hansen ski jacket. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent specifically designed for technical outerwear.

Should I use fabric softener when washing my Helly Hansen ski jacket?
No, avoid using fabric softeners as they can damage the jacket’s waterproof and breathable membrane.

How do I dry my Helly Hansen ski jacket after washing?
Air drying is recommended. If using a dryer, tumble dry on low heat to help reactivate the durable water repellent (DWR) coating.

Is it necessary to reapply DWR treatment after washing?
Yes, washing can diminish the DWR finish. Reapply a DWR spray or wash-in treatment to maintain water repellency.

Can I bleach or iron my Helly Hansen ski jacket?
No, never bleach or iron the jacket as these actions can damage the fabric and impair performance.

How often should I wash my Helly Hansen ski jacket?
Wash the jacket only when necessary, typically after several uses, to preserve its technical features and prolong its lifespan.
Washing a Helly Hansen ski jacket properly is essential to maintain its performance, durability, and waterproof qualities. Following the manufacturer’s care instructions, using a gentle detergent designed for technical outerwear, and avoiding fabric softeners or bleach are critical steps. It is advisable to wash the jacket in cold water on a gentle cycle and to rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent residues.

After washing, drying the jacket correctly is equally important. Air drying or tumble drying on a low heat setting can help reactivate the jacket’s durable water repellent (DWR) coating. Reapplying a DWR treatment periodically will ensure the jacket continues to repel water effectively and maintain breathability. Avoiding high heat and harsh chemicals will preserve the fabric’s integrity and prolong the life of the jacket.

In summary, careful attention to washing and drying methods, combined with appropriate maintenance treatments, will keep your Helly Hansen ski jacket in optimal condition. This not only enhances comfort and performance on the slopes but also protects your investment in high-quality outdoor gear. Adhering to these best practices ensures that your jacket remains reliable season after season.

Author Profile

Avatar
Andrea Broussard
Andrea Broussard knows what it feels like to stand in front of a mirror, wondering why clothes never quite fit right. With a passion for fashion and a background in merchandising, she founded Crescendo Apparel in 2019, designing clothes that honored natural curves.

But Andrea also recognized that fit is only part of the story. Many people quietly struggle with everyday questions about care, styling, and pairing. Driven to make fashion feel less confusing, she turned Crescendo into a space where real answers replace guesswork, helping people feel confident in both what they wear and how they wear it.