How to Wash Base Layers: 3 Easy Steps
Anyone can learn how to wash base layers using the three easy steps outlined in this guide from the softgoods experts at Burton. Whether you have a washer/dryer at home, or you’ll be going to a laundromat to get the job done, the process is quick and easy.
- Prep Base Layers for Washing: Sort, Pre-treat Stains, Turn Inside-out
- Wash Base Layers Following Manufacturer’s Care Label
- Air Dry Base Layers to Prevent Shrinkage and Ensure Longest Life
Step 1: Prep Base Layers for Washing
Begin the base layer washing process by prepping your clothing. Sort base layers into wool and synthetic piles, unless you only have a few items, in which case, you can wash everything together in a single load.
Pro tip: Synthetic and wool base layers may have different recommended washing temperatures, so washing them in separate loads is often the best approach. Consult the care labels on your items to be sure.
Next, pre-treat stains using a mild, unscented soap. We generally recommend spot-treating with the same detergent you plan to wash with, but dish soap may be helpful for especially stubborn soils. Rub a small amount of your chosen detergent directly into stains (gently brush with an old toothbrush to work in the soap if necessary) and allow the garment to sit for at least thirty minutes before washing.
Next, turn your base layers inside out before washing. This reduces wear on the face of the fabric. Finally, if you want to reduce the amount of micro-plastic fibers that are shed by base layers into the environment, we recommend washing them inside a synthetic fabric washing bag like those made by Guppy Friend.
Step 2: Wash Base Layers Following Manufacturer’s Care Label
After prepping, it’s time to wash your base layers according to the manufacturer’s directions on the care label. We recommend using a front-loading washing machine, or a machine without an agitator column (which can damage delicate items).
Select the gentle cycle on your washing machine and choose the water temperature recommended on the care label of your base layers. If there is no care label, select 85-degrees Fahrenheit (30-degrees Celsius) for washing both wool and synthetic base layers. You can choose a colder setting, but we generally do not recommend going hotter as this may shrink your items.
Add the recommended amount of detergent to the washing machine. We suggest using a product specifically formulated for base layers. Grangers Active Wash is formulated for synthetic base layers and Grangers Merino Wash for wool. Read Grangers Instructions: How to Protect Burton Outerwear for an overview of detergents specifically formulated for washing GORE-TEX and other technical fabrics.
If you don’t have access to a specialty cleaning product designed for base layers, a powdered free-and-clear (no perfumes, dyes, or fabric softeners) laundry detergent can also work.
Pro tip: More detergent does not equal a cleaner garment. Use the recommended (or minimum) amount of detergent when washing your base layers to ensure no residue is left behind. When in doubt, select the extra rinse option on your washing machine.
Finally, you can also hand-wash ski and snowboard base layers at home in the sink. The benefit of this method is that you can use a minimal amount of water and soap. This may be the best option if you only have a single top and bottom and don’t want to run your washing machine.
Step 3: Air Dry Base Layers to Prevent Shrinkage and Ensure Longest Life
For the longest possible product life, we recommend air-drying base layers. This is especially important for wool base layers which can shrink when heat dried.
To air dry your base layers, hang them on a clothing drying rack or on a clothesline to ensure proper air circulation and prevent mold or mildew growth. Never let base damp base layers sit in a washing machine overnight as this will encourage mildew growth.
Pro tip: Never use bleach, fabric softener, dryer sheets, or wash/dry-in scent additives with ski or snowboarding outerwear and base layers. These products can affect the performance of your clothing and may reduce the usable lifespan of your gear.
How to Store your Base Layers
Storing ski and snowboard base layers is easy. First, wash and thoroughly dry them. Next, roll or fold your base layers (instead of hanging) to avoid stretching out the neck and shoulders of tops. For short-term storage (like in between days of riding), base layers can be stored at room temperature in a dresser or bin. For long-term storage (like the summers between seasons), consider storing base layers in an airtight bag out of direct sunlight; this is especially important for wool base layers, which are susceptible to moth damage. You can toss a cedar-based moth deterrent into your storage container for additional peace of mind.
Read How to Store Snowboards & Other Gear During the Summer and learn how to properly store the rest of your gear including your snowboard, bindings, boots, and outerwear.
