Dirty waders

[spike]

My breathable waders are very dirty and I am getting embarassed to wear them. :oops: Also, I think they are so dirty, they probable do not breath any more. What should I use to wash them. I did some research, I find a Nikwax wash or a Revivex wash. Looks like I then need to spray the with a DWR finish which is also produced by Revivex.
Also see just a plain soft detergent mentioned.

[layoutond]

spike,
cold water, bathtub and a non-detergent soap. nixwax makes a tech wash and tx direct to replenish the hydrophobic qualities that your waders had. the most important part is the non-detergent soap. ep[/quote]

[TonyM]

I've washed my waders (two pair) in the washing machine with powdered detergent (Tide) twice. I turn them inside out to wash the insides first, then turn right side out to finish washing the outside. They smell much better (!!) and look cleaner. I have used them recently in some pretty hot, humid weather and I believe the breathability is same as original and still waterproof. I think dirt and salt (from sea water or perspiration) clog the microfibers and retard breathability.

From what I understand, the Revivex helps restore some of the watershedding and waterproofness to the outside, but doesn't last as long as original fabric. Has to be re-applied occasionally. I've not had to use these restorers yet, only patched occasional pinholes when I get them.

Tony M