Wader CPR: How to Get Air Back in Your Breathables

If you want to keep your breathable waders breathable, you need to keep them clean. It’s safe to throw them in the washing machine, but don’t use Downey, Woolite, or granule cleaners such as Tide or Cheer. Detergents leave chemical deposits that keep air from passing through your waders (and jackets); the fabric will choke unless it’s totally free of residue. I use only one cleaning product: Atsko Sport-Wash (atsko.com ). A capful is enough for a full load, and it rinses completely clean. Once your waders are finished in the washer, toss them into the dryer and set the temperature as high as the fabric can handle. Check them after 7 minutes to make sure they can handle the high temperature. The heat will reactivate the DWR (Durable Waterproof Repellant) and your waders will breathe like they’re brand new.