It’s getting to be the time of year when running in your tank top just won’t do it. If you’re a year-round runner like me, having a trusted waterproof running jacket is a must. Actually, most runners use a running jacket for more than half of the year. With this much use, you may be wondering, how often should you wash a running jacket? In this article, I will cover this question and more!
Let’s get started.
What is a Running Jacket?
Running jackets are used as protection from the cold and rain when running outdoors.
Running jackets have been around since the 1800s, but they did not become popular until the early 1900s. This was after people about the benefits of running in cold weather to stay healthy and fit.
There are many popular brands of running jackets, but some of the most popular include Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour. Each brand has its unique style and features that appeal to different runners.
Nike is a popular choice for runners who want a stylish and functional jacket that will keep them warm and dry. The Nike Rain Runner is an excellent all-around choice.
Adidas is a popular choice for runners who want a durable and comfortable jacket that will last them for many miles. One of my favorite Adidas running jackets is the Marathon Translucent Jacket.
Under Armour is another top choice for runners who want a lightweight and breathable jacket that will help them stay cool and dry. For great fit and performance, discover the Run Anywhere Storm Jacket.
How Often Should You Wash a Running Jacket?
There are no set guidelines on how often you should wash your running jacket, but it’s important to remember that washing your running jacket too often can lead to the fabric wearing out faster.
The frequency at which you should wash your running jacket depends on how active you are and the type of material it’s made from. If you’re not very active, you may only need to wash your running jacket once every two months.
The best way to wash a running jacket
It is important to know that not all fabrics are created equal. Some jackets are made of synthetic materials, while others are made of wool or cotton.
Synthetic fabrics can be washed in a washing machine on a cold or warm cycle with cold water and detergent, but it is crucial to make sure that the machine settings are set to “delicate.”
Wool and cotton can be washed by hand in cool water with soap or shampoo, but should never be put in the washing machine.
10 Tips – Best Way to Washing Your Running Jacket
✅1. Check the label for brand-specific care instructions
✅ 2. Stick with cold water and use a mild detergent
✅ 3. Hand wash when possible
✅ 4. Never use hot water or bleach
✅ 5. Air dry only
✅ 6. Avoid use dryer
✅ 7. Take care to prevent damage to reflective strips
✅ 8. Remove the detachable hood or liner before washing
✅ 9. Double-check to ensure thorough cleaning
✅ 10. Store the jacket in a cool, dry space between uses
Signs Your Running Jacket Needs Washing
Not sure if it’s time to wash your jacket? Here are the telltale signs that indicate your running jacket needs a good cleaning:
Odor is the obvious indicator. If your jacket smells musty or retains body odor even after airing out, it’s time for a wash. Running jackets trap sweat and bacteria, especially around the underarms and back.
Visible dirt or stains from muddy trails or rainy runs also signal it’s washing time. Don’t let dirt sit too long, as it can damage the fabric’s waterproof coating.
Reduced water repellency means your jacket is soaking up water instead of beading it off. This happens when body oils and dirt clog the fabric’s pores, compromising the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating.
How to Spot Clean Between Washes
You don’t always need a full wash. Spot cleaning extends the time between deep cleans and helps preserve your jacket’s technical features.
For small stains, dampen a soft cloth with cool water and a tiny amount of mild detergent. Gently blot the stained area—never rub aggressively, as this can damage the fabric. Rinse with clean water and air dry.
For sweat-prone areas like collars and cuffs, wipe them down with a damp cloth after each run. This prevents odor buildup and reduces how often you need a complete wash.
Common Washing Mistakes to Avoid
Using fabric softener is the biggest mistake runners make. Fabric softener coats the fibers and destroys water-repellent treatments. It also clogs breathable membranes, making your jacket feel clammy during runs.
Washing too frequently wears out the fabric faster. Unless your jacket is genuinely dirty or smells, you can often refresh it by hanging it outside in fresh air.
Ignoring zippers and velcro before washing causes snags and tears. Always zip up all zippers and fasten velcro tabs before washing to protect the fabric.
Using hot water breaks down technical fabrics and damages waterproof coatings. Cold water preserves your jacket’s performance features.
Restoring Water Repellency
Over time, even with proper care, your jacket’s water repellency will diminish. Here’s how to bring it back:
After washing your jacket, you can reactivate the DWR coating by putting it in the dryer on low heat for 20 minutes. The gentle heat helps restore the water-beading effect. If you prefer not to use a dryer, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting, holding it about six inches from the fabric.
For jackets that have lost significant water repellency, consider using a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment like Nikwax TX.Direct or Granger’s Performance Repel. Follow the product instructions carefully, and always apply these treatments to a clean jacket.
Seasonal Storage Tips
When running jacket season ends, proper storage ensures your jacket stays in top condition.
Clean before storing. Never put away a dirty jacket. Dirt and oils attract moisture and can cause mildew during long-term storage.
Hang instead of fold to prevent creases that can damage waterproof membranes. Use a padded hanger if possible.
Choose a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors and degrade fabrics. A closet works better than a garage or basement.
Avoid compression for extended periods. While packing your jacket tight for a trip is fine, long-term compression can damage insulation and waterproof layers.
When to Replace Your Running Jacket
Even with excellent care, running jackets don’t last forever. Replace your jacket when you notice:
- Persistent leaks despite reapplying DWR treatments
- Torn seams or holes that compromise protection
- Delaminating waterproof membranes (bubbling or peeling inside layers)
- Broken zippers that can’t be repaired
A well-maintained running jacket typically lasts 3-5 years with regular use. Investing in quality care helps you maximize this lifespan.
FAQs
What is a good mild detergent for a running jacket?
It is important to know that not all fabrics are created equal. Some jackets are made of synthetic materials, while others are made of wool or cotton.
Synthetic fabrics can be washed in a washing machine on a cold or warm cycle with cold water and detergent, but it is essential to make sure that the machine settings are set to “delicate.”
Wool and cotton can be washed by hand in cool water with soap or shampoo, but should never be put in the washing machine.
WIN Sports Detergent restores stretch fabrics, brightens colors, and removes workout odors from microfiber, synthetic, and technical materials. You can choose a fragrance-free detergent or one that has a fresh scent.
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Summary
I hope you found this article – How Often Should You Wash a Running Jacket? – helpful and interesting. To learn more on this topic see related posts below.
Claudia Faucher is a fitness and lifestyle blogger who shares practical tips for women over 50 on staying active, stylish, and confident. As the creator of FitFab50.com and Beyond59.com, she covers topics like workout gear, beauty trends, and wellness routines. Claudia is passionate about helping others live their best life at any age.
Last update on 2026-02-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API