How to Clean Waterproof Travel Gear

Want to make your waterproof travel gear last longer and stay effective? Proper cleaning and care are essential to maintain its water resistance and durability. Here's what you need to know:

• Clean regularly to remove dirt, sweat, and oils that degrade waterproof coatings.
• Use the right products: Mild soap or technical cleaner - no bleach or fabric softeners.
• Follow material-specific care: Nylon, polyester, TPU coatings, and DWR finishes each require different cleaning techniques.
• Reapply waterproof treatments when water stops beading off the surface.
• Avoid common mistakes like using harsh detergents, wringing, or exposing gear to high heat.

Quick Care Tips:

Whether it’s a waterproof backpack, jacket, or small gear like pouches, following these steps will keep your items reliable in any condition. Let’s dive into the details!

How to Clean and Re-Waterproof Outdoor Gear

Waterproof Materials Guide

Knowing the materials in your gear helps you clean it properly and keep its water resistance intact.

Common Waterproof Materials

Waterproof travel gear is made from specific materials and treatments designed to keep moisture out. Here's a quick overview:

Waterproofing Basics

Waterproof materials protect your gear by combining natural water resistance with added treatments. For example:

• Tightly woven fabrics naturally repel water due to their structure.
• TPU coatings act as a moisture barrier but need careful cleaning to stay effective.
• DWR treatments make water roll off the surface but require regular reapplication to maintain their performance.

To keep your gear performing its best:

• Always check the care label for cleaning instructions.
• Choose cleaning products suited to the material.
• Let your gear air dry completely after cleaning.
• Reapply waterproof treatments when water stops beading on the surface.

Next, we’ll dive into specific cleaning techniques to help you apply these tips effectively.

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Cleaning Instructions by Item Type

Use these steps to keep your waterproof gear in great shape.

Backpack Cleaning Steps

Here’s how to clean your waterproof backpack:

1. Pre-cleaning preparation

Empty all compartments and shake out any debris. Remove detachable parts like straps or frames, and check the care label for specific instructions from the manufacturer.

2. Spot cleaning

For small stains, gently scrub the area with mild soap and lukewarm water using circular motions. Be careful not to damage the waterproof coating.

3. Deep cleaning

Fill a sink or tub with lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle soap. Submerge the backpack and clean it thoroughly with a soft cloth, paying extra attention to high-contact areas like shoulder straps and the back panel.

Titantrek Atlas Vault users: Avoid soaking the vacuum compression valve and TSA-approved lock. Instead, wipe these areas gently with a damp microfiber cloth.

These steps can also be adjusted for cleaning waterproof clothing and other smaller items.

Waterproof Clothing Care

Keep your waterproof clothing in top condition by following these care tips:

Cleaning Other Waterproof Items

Take extra care when cleaning smaller waterproof items:

Waterproof pouches and compression bags:

• Hand wash with mild soap and lukewarm water.
• Avoid harsh detergents that could harm the waterproof coating.
• Use a soft cloth to clean seams and zippers.
• Let them air dry completely before storing.

Electronic cases and protective covers:

• Wipe with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
• Pay close attention to corners and seals where dirt tends to gather.
• Ensure they’re fully dry before inserting devices.

Hydration systems:

• Wash with warm water and mild dish soap.
• Use a specialized bottle brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
• Air dry with the openings facing downward.

What Not to Do When Cleaning

To keep your gear in top shape, it's just as important to know what to avoid as it is to follow proper cleaning methods. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

Wrong Cleaning Products

Certain cleaning products can harm the waterproof coatings on your gear. Here's a quick guide:

Tip for Titantrek Atlas Vault users: Stick to pH-neutral soap to ensure the vacuum compression system stays intact.

Incorrect Drying Methods

Drying your gear the wrong way can cause irreversible damage. Avoid these mistakes:

Avoid these drying methods:

• High-heat tumble drying (above 104°F/40°C)
• Placing gear near heaters or radiators
• Direct sunlight exposure
• Twisting or wringing the material

Instead, hang your gear in a well-ventilated space, away from heat sources. For backpacks, hang them upside down to prevent water from pooling. Allow 24-48 hours for everything to dry completely before storing.

Skipping Regular Cleaning

Neglecting routine cleaning can lead to a host of problems. Dirt and oils can:

• Break down waterproof membranes
• Block breathable pores
• Reduce water repellency
• Encourage mold growth
• Leave permanent stains

Recommended Cleaning Routine:

• Quick wipe-down: After each use
• Spot cleaning: When you notice visible dirt
• Deep cleaning: Every 3-4 months with regular use
• Professional cleaning: Once a year for heavily used items

Regularly inspecting your gear can also help catch small issues before they turn into big problems.

Conclusion

Quick Care Tips

Stick to these care steps to keep your gear in top shape:

Store your gear in a cool, dry space (60–75°F/15–24°C), away from direct sunlight to avoid mold and material degradation.

Opting for gear designed with easy maintenance in mind can make these routines even simpler.

Recommended Gear Options

Durable gear not only lasts longer but also makes maintenance easier. For example, the Titantrek Atlas Vault backpack, with a 4.88/5 rating from 24 reviews, is a great choice for those seeking reliability and functionality.

"Very good quality of materials, lots of compartments for all eventualities, very well organized, vacuum system works perfectly and the pump is powerful", says Ahmad Harris in a January 2025 review ^[1].

When selecting waterproof travel gear, prioritize these features:

• Waterproof materials that handle frequent cleaning
• Compartments designed for easy access and maintenance
• Reinforced seams to block water penetration
• Durable water repellent (DWR) coatings
• Surfaces that are simple to clean

For backpacks, models with waterproof compartments are especially handy. In January 2025, Katelin Glover reviewed the Titantrek Vacuum Compression Backpack • Prometheus, praising its:

"A lot of space and separations for everything. Some pockets are waterproof. Great for traveling, fits a lot in air vacuum pocket. Really recommend. Also fast delivery." [2]

Investing in well-made gear makes upkeep easier and ensures it stands the test of time.

Related Blog Posts

• How Vacuum Sealing Protects Gear from Moisture
• How to Use Compression Gear for Minimalist Travel
• Ultimate Guide to Roll-Up Storage Bags for Travel
• How Vacuum Compression Enhances Waterproof Storage