In winter, your children rely on their snowsuits to stay warm and dry, no matter the temperature. Whether walking to school or playing in the snow for hours, high-performance outerwear makes all the difference. This guide will help you properly care for snowsuits so they last through the season and beyond.
Washing¹
Step 1: Wash at home whenever possible. Professional cleaning products are often too harsh and overly scented and should be avoided².
Step 2: Wash the coat separately in cold water on a delicate cycle³ or by hand. ALWAYS remove the fur trim from the hood before washing.
Step 3: Use a mild liquid detergent designed specifically for outerwear⁴. DO NOT use any fabric softeners, bleach, or chlorine-based products.
Step 4: Rinse at least two to three times. No detergent residue should remain.
¹ It is recommended to thoroughly clean your washing machine with a specialized product before washing and re-waterproofing your outerwear.
² Dry cleaning can damage the waterproof membrane and remove the water-repellent finish.
³ A front-loading washer is recommended. Clément is not responsible for any damage caused by the machine or improper care. No refunds will be issued.
⁴ We recommend using NikWax products.
Which detergent should I use?
It’s important to use a detergent suited to your garment to ensure optimal care and preserve its durability and performance.
Synthetic outerwear: Use a detergent designed for garments with a Teflon-type waterproof coating, such as NikWax Tech Wash 300ml.
Down outerwear: Choose a detergent specifically made for down-filled products, such as NikWax Down Wash Direct.
Drying
The right drying method depends on the fibers used in your outerwear.
Synthetic outerwear: Do NOT machine dry. Lay flat to dry in a well-ventilated space only.
Down outerwear: Can be machine-dried at low or no heat. Add wool dryer balls to help speed up the process and restore volume. Avoid air drying as it can take too long and lead to mold growth.
Re-waterproofing (as needed)
Follow Steps 2 to 4 from the washing section before re-waterproofing your coat.
Step 5: Run another delicate cold-water wash cycle, this time using a waterproofing product such as Nikwax. Be sure to follow the instructions on the detergent label carefully.
If water no longer beads on the surface as it did when new, that’s completely normal. The coating naturally wears away with use. The outerwear remains waterproof thanks to its inner membrane. Still, re-waterproofing with the right products can help restore full performance. The drying method should always match the type of material.
Which waterproofing product should I use?
After a few washes or extended exposure to the elements, it’s normal for water repellency to fade. To restore it, use a product designed specifically for your garment’s fabric.
For synthetic outerwear: A product like Nikwax TX Direct 300ml is a great option. It revives the water-repellent finish without needing heat, making home care easier.
For down outerwear: Go for a product like Nikwax Down Proof, formulated to protect the fill while maintaining volume and breathability.
A good waterproofing product can truly be the difference between a coat that protects and one that lets moisture in.
What are the benefits of NikWax products?
NikWax offers a complete care solution for waterproof garments, combining performance with eco-consciousness. Their unique formula ensures deep cleaning while preserving the original water repellency. Tech Wash maintains long-lasting water resistance.
By revitalizing breathability, these products help garments feel comfortable again. They’re also easy to use, simplifying care for technical outerwear. With no fluorocarbons in the formula, there’s no health or environmental risk. Heat activation isn’t needed, making them a safe and convenient solution.
Why does outerwear start to absorb water?
Waterproof outerwear, such as snowsuits, features a hydrophilic inner membrane (e.g., 5000 mm) and an exterior treatment (e.g., Teflon EcoElite™). This double barrier offers:
- Water resistance
- Dirt repellency
- Faster drying time
However, the outer coating naturally wears down over time, especially with rain exposure. Improper detergent use can also weaken this layer.
Important note: Visible moisture on the surface fabric doesn’t always mean the coat is no longer waterproof.
Caution with down products: Most down garments don’t include a hydrophilic membrane. Because down needs to breathe to retain warmth, these garments are water-resistant but not fully waterproof.
Adding a shell like the Splashy is a smart solution for optimal waterproofing.
Waterproofing considerations: Some products feature a waterproof membrane but lack sealed seams, making them less resistant to water than fully sealed garments.
Tip for down coats
If a feather is poking out of your coat, do not pull it out. Instead, gently massage it back inside. Pulling it may create a hole that allows more feathers to escape.
A well-cared-for snowsuit means a happy child, warm and ready to face the winter with a smile. And it means peace of mind for parents, knowing that a good wash makes all the difference.
Explore our selection of Nikwax products to wash, re-waterproof, and protect snowsuits for the whole family.
