What's the difference between Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct?

Nikwax Tech Wash is made to clean and revitalise waterproof fabrics, and TX Direct restores their DWR finish. Basefresh, meanwhile, is designed to banish the odour of synthetic base layers without compromising performance.

Do you use Tech Wash and TX Direct together?

Use Tech Wash like before. Then… If you have a top-loading machine, let the machine fill, then add a maximum of 3 jackets and 300ml of TX. Direct Wash-In.

What is the difference between Nikwax Down Wash and Down Wash direct?

Down, specifically, requires a gentle, detergent-free cleaner. We recommend our very own, Nikwax Down Wash Direct, which is specially formulated to launder down feathers without weighing down the loft (also see Down Proof, below).

What is Nikwax TX Direct?

Nikwax TX. Direct® Wash-In has been specifically designed and optimised for breathable waterproof garments; it leaves a flexible water repellent treatment on individual fibres allowing moisture vapour to pass through, maintaining breathability.

Does Tech Wash work?

The Tech Wash is well capable of removing dirt and body oils from the fabrics, without damaging the durable water repellent treatment. It's definitely the safest way to clean your waterproof jacket.

Nikwax Tech Wash and TX.Direct v laundry detergent. Spot the difference!

Do I need Nikwax Tech Wash?

Use Nikwax Tech Wash^® when your waterproof clothing and equipment soaks up water... Your waterproof clothing and equipment could be soaking up water because the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) has been compromised by dirt, or because it has been cleaned with a conventional laundry detergent.

How often should you use Nikwax?

It's hard to give a definitive answer, but as a rule Nikwax generally recommends washing between 3-5 times before you re-proof a garment using the current version of Tech Wash, though the new version of the cleaner due out this September will roughly double that figure.

What is Nikwax Tech Wash?

Nikwax Tech Wash® is a highly effective cleaner. Additionally it will revitalize existing Durable Water Repellency (DWR) and revive breathability. It is the safe way to thoroughly clean your waterproof clothing and equipment.

How do you use a Nikwax Direct washing machine?

Can I use TX Direct on down?

Spraying your down jacket with a waterproofing agent such as Nikwax TX Direct will only apply a layer of DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating to the fabric.

How do I choose nikwax?

As a general Nikwax rule: Green for clean, Purple for proof! If water isn't beading up on your jacket, you should always start with a cleaner like Tech Wash, and then rewash it with a waterproofing formula like TX. Direct. Don't just go direct to a waterproofing product.

Can I wash down jacket with Nikwax Tech Wash?

It is best to wash your down jacket with a cleaner specifically designed for down or technical outerwear, we would recommend something like Nixwax's 'Nixwax Down Wash' or Tech Wash for the cleaning process and Nikwax Down Proof™ or TX Direct for re-proofing.

Can I use Nikwax on GORE-TEX?

The DWR finish is not permanent and needs to be maintained to optimise performance, firstly by cleaning regularly with Nikwax Tech Wash, and occasionally reproofing with TX. Direct. Safe for use on Gore-Tex®, SympaTex®, Entrant®, Ultrex®, TriplePoint® and all liner and shell fabrics.

How long does Tech Wash Last?

Items that are properly treated (pre-washed with Nikwax Tech Wash, then treated with an appropriate Nikwax proofer such as Nikwax TX. Direct) will withstand 4 to 6 washes using Tech Wash. For an average use of outdoor clothing we recommend that you wash and re-proof your gear at least once a year.

Does washing a waterproof jacket ruin it?

Waterproof jackets should never be washed using ordinary detergent or fabric softener. The chemicals in detergent can break down the composition of the fibres with each wash and strip the fabric of its waterproof coating. A cleaner specifically designed for technical outerwear is recommended.

Can you use Nikwax TX Direct on softshell?

We recommend Nikwax TX Direct. The spray-on is best. Wash your softshell, but don't yet dry it. Whilst still damp, hang up your jacket or trousers.

Can I spray Nikwax wash in?

Yes you can. In reply to neuromancer: Exactly the same stuff, we were told by nikwax to sell the spray as wash in if we ran out of wash in.

How do you wash a GORE-TEX jacket with Nikwax?

Wash in your washing machine with a technical cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash. If the care label allows, you can tumble dry low, or simply hang dry.

Can I use Nikwax Tech Wash on cotton?

Use Nikwax Cotton Proof™ when your cotton items soak up water... Your cotton items could be soaking up water just because they are dirty. First, try cleaning them with Nikwax Tech Wash®, and if they are fairly new, or recently re-waterproofed, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) will be revitalized just from cleaning.

What is the primary active ingredient in all Nikwax fabric cleaning treatments?

10i polymer was the primary active ingredient in all Nikwax footwear and fabric treatments. Nikwax treatments coat fabric and leather fibres with a network of elastic TX. 10i water-repellent molecules. They bond to anything that is not water-repellent, but leave the spaces between fibres open and breathable.

Does Nikwax Tech Wash expire?

Items can be washed 6 to 8 times with Tech Wash before it requires reproofing with the appropriate Nikwax proofer (TX. Direct for clothing or Tent & Gear Proof for gear). Tech Wash has a shelf life of 4 years.

Does GORE-TEX need Reproofing?

Waterproofing a Gore-Tex Jacket will eventually be required because despite the inner layer being a breathable waterproof membrane, the outer layer (shell) of the jacket will lose its waterproofing, soak up water and stay wet, blocking the effect of the Gore Tex.

Does Nikwax TX Direct work on cotton?

Nikwax Cotton Proof is the market leader; it has been specifically designed and optimised for breathable cotton, polycotton and canvas materials, providing DWR whilst maintaining breathability.

How long does it take for Nikwax to dry?

For best results let footwear dry for 24 hours before use.