• Watch Out for Scammers!

    We've now added a color code for all accounts. Orange accounts are new members, Blue are full members, and Green are Supporters. If you get a message about a sale from an orange account, make sure you pay attention before sending any money!

Removing odors from Gore Tex

D1gger

GDI
Supporter
Full Member
Minuteman
  • Nov 12, 2017
    584
    406
    Staunton, VA
    So I bought some surplus Gore Tex raingear, and I didn't notice the cigarette smell in the store, but I sure noticed it after I got home. I've washed them a few times but I still have an odor. What can I do to get rid of that smell? I've googled and I don't see anything different than what I've already done.
     
    my coyote hunt cloths when start getting smelly . I just run a water Only cycle threw the 'empty' wash out machine . Then I throw my stuff in wash and use just plain baking soda and wash, then just hang outside to dry.
    .
     
    • Like
    Reactions: Snuby642
    I use Nikwax tech wash.


     
    • Like
    Reactions: John_in_WYO
    Surprisingly sunlight and wind takes out lots of oders.

    Also was a smoker in the past.
    Have had a doe stick her head into the stand while I was smoking.

    I think smoke hides human scent as in the old days had to put down a cigarette to take a shot many times.

    As offensive as it is to most people these days I do not believe a deterrent to hunting if that is the main concern.

    Imho
     
    LOL... seen that plenty with guys hunting and a lit cig. hanging out of mouth .
    smoke of smoldering vegetation and wave you cloths threw it to pick it up, is the best cover for game.
    .
     
    I read about the Nikwax, but I wasn't sure if it would work on the odor. I'll give it a try.
    I'm not concerned about hunting, I just don't like the smell
     
    I use Nikwax tech wash.


    ^ This.
     
    Well, I just got mine today, ran them through once, drying now. I guess now we wait and see...
     
    I use Defunkify wash on all of my synthetics. It's great for getting that stink that sticks to old base layers and other tech clothing after a while.


    After a cycle or two of Defunkify, I would include it in what I do in the fall with all of mine and the wife's Gore-Tex, run through a cycle of Tech Wash and then a cycle of TX. Direct Wash-In.
    I’ve read to avoid powders such as baking soda and detergents. I have not confirmed it that’s sound advice or not just throwing it out there. Sounds like it hasn’t been an issue with your clothes.
     
    I’ve read to avoid powders such as baking soda and detergents.

    Good call!

    I've read that too, specifically at Gore's website. I wouldn't wash Gore-tex in Defunkify often, but on surplus gear to get camp fire or other scents out of it, one or two initial washes won't hurt it.
    At work, we have 500+ sets of ECWS Gore-Tex tops and bottoms and they only get washed in mil-issue laundry powder and they still hold up fine. Some of the ultralight shells with Gore-Tex Packlite might get messed up with continual powder wash, but mil surplus PFC and 2nd Lt-resistant stuff should be fine with an initial wash or two with Defunkify.
     
    • Like
    Reactions: D1gger and db2000