Choosing the Right Laundromat for Hunting Gear: What Detergent to Avoid
Introduction
When it comes to maintaining the performance and durability of your hunting clothes, the right laundry detergent is a crucial factor. Guardians of your survival gear often seek detergents that wonrsquo;t compromise on functionality, such as waterproofing and breathability. In this article, we will explore the best types of detergents to use and which ones to avoid, with a specific emphasis on avoiding biological and clothes softeners.
Types of Detergents to Use for Hunting Gear
1. Non-Biological Detergents:
Non-biological detergents, including liquid detergents like those from Dh51 (DP), are often recommended for treating hunting clothes. These detergents are free from enzymes or biological agents, making them a safer choice for materials that require specific treatments, such as waterproofing and the preservation of breathability. Non-biological detergents effectively clean while ensuring the integrity of your gear.
Liquid Detergents: A Safe Bet
The Liquid Detergent (hereafter referred to as DP) is an excellent choice for cleaning hunting clothes. It lacks the enzyme-based compounds found in biological detergents, which can break down the treatments that hunters rely on. Additionally, liquid detergents often provide better stain removal while being gentle on the fabrics.
Why to Avoid Biological and Clothes Softeners
Biological Detergents:
Biological detergents are designed to break down protein-based stains, which are common in hunting gear. However, these detergents often contain enzymes that can degrade the chemical treatments applied to your clothes. Enzymes can erode away waterproofing compounds and effectiveness, resulting in a less functional garment. As a result, it is wise to avoid biological detergents when washing hunting clothes that require specific performance characteristics.
Clothes Softeners: Compromising Performance
Clothes softeners can be particularly detrimental when it comes to maintaining the breathability and water resistance of your hunting clothes. Softeners are typically designed to add a slippery feel to fabrics, which might be desirable for everyday wear but can compromise the performance of technical gear. Softeners can also leave a residue on the fabric that can interfere with your clothesrsquo; crucial breathability and waterproof properties.
Other Factors to Consider:
To ensure the longevity and performance of your hunting clothes, it is essential to choose the right laundromat or washing machine settings. Cold water is generally recommended, as hot water can damage the fabric fibers and reduce the efficacy of treatments, particularly waterproofing solvents. Additionally, avoiding extreme agitation can help prevent the loosening of treatments and wearing down of the fabric.
Using the right detergent and following the proper washing procedures can help preserve the performance of your hunting clothes. For example, using a bag to wash specific items like waterproof jackets can prevent them from coming into contact with other fabric types, which might shorten their lifespan. Furthermore, air-drying is preferred over machine drying, as hot air can damage the waterproofing and other treatments.
Experiments and Feedback
Some hunters recommend testing detergents on a small, inconspicuous area before washing the entire garment. This can help ensure that the detergent does not affect any additional treatments or dye.
Conclusion
Choosing the right detergent is a critical step in maintaining the performance and longevity of your hunting clothes. Non-biological detergents like liquid detergents are generally the best choice, while biological detergents and clothes softeners should be avoided. By taking the right steps and using the correct detergents, you can ensure that your hunting gear stays in top condition, ready for the next adventure.