Ski clothing is designed to protect you from the cold, snow and humidity, but their intense use on the slopes can cause them to absorb unpleasant odours. To extend their life and keep them fresh, it is essential to deodorise them properly.
Why do your ski clothes smell?
Ski clothing, whether jackets, pants or technical underwear, is subjected to extreme conditions. Sweat, humidity and dirt accumulated during a day on the slopes promote the development of bacteria responsible for bad odors. In addition, the combination of technical materials and waterproof treatments can retain these odors, making traditional cleaning sometimes less effective.
Read also: How to eliminate bad odors from your clothes?
How to effectively deodorize your ski clothes?
To deodorize your ski clothing, there are several techniques adapted to the specificities of these textiles. Here are some proven methods:
Thorough washing and drying
Washing your ski clothing regularly is the first step to eliminating odours. Use a delicate programme in your washing machine, favouring a moderate temperature and a mild detergent specially formulated for technical textiles. Make sure not to use fabric softener, which could clog the waterproof membranes. Air drying is recommended, as the dryer can alter the technical properties of the garment and trap moisture.
Using natural deodorizing agents
Baking soda is a great ally for neutralizing odors. Before washing, you can lightly sprinkle your ski clothes with baking soda, leave it on for a few hours, then shake the fabric to remove the excess. You can also prepare a natural deodorizing spray by mixing water and a few drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil, known for their antibacterial and refreshing properties.
Steam treatment
Steaming is a particularly effective method for deodorizing ski clothing. Studies have shown that exposure to steam can reduce the intensity of bad sweat odor by 62%*. This technique is ideal for sportswear and synthetic fabrics, which often retain odors. Using a garment steamer like those offered by SteamOne , you can distribute hot steam directly onto your clothing, which helps neutralize odors while refreshing the fibers. Simply gently pass the steamer over the garment, ensuring that the head remains in contact with the fabric for maximum effectiveness.
*Sensenet Studies "Evaluation of the effectiveness of a steam treatment in reducing odors impregnated on textiles" for SteamOne - August 2020
Ventilation and exposure to sunlight
After each use, air your ski clothing by hanging it in a well-ventilated area. If possible, expose it to sunlight for a few hours, which helps eliminate moisture and neutralize odors. However, be careful not to leave it in direct sunlight for too long to avoid fading or weakening of technical fabrics.
Maintenance of technical materials
Waterproof and windproof treatments on ski clothing require special care. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for washing and drying. Some technical products can benefit from a re-waterproofing treatment after several washes, which also helps maintain a fresh feeling.
Additional care tips to keep your outfits looking fresher
To prevent bad odours from building up, adopt these good practices: Store your ski clothes in a dry and ventilated place. Regularly clean the pockets and linings, which are often the most exposed to humidity. Avoid storing clothes that are still damp in a closed bag, in order to prevent the proliferation of bacteria.
Conclusion
Deodorizing your ski clothing is essential to preserve its quality and extend its life. By combining proper washing techniques, the use of natural agents such as baking soda, effective steam treatment and good ventilation, you can easily keep your outfits always fresh and performing. Adopt these tips to turn the care of your ski clothing into a simple and effective routine.
