You can iron a North Face jacket on a cool setting to revive the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. However, it's crucial to proceed with caution. Here's a detailed guide:
Why Iron a North Face Jacket?
Ironing, when done correctly, can help restore the DWR finish on your North Face jacket. This finish is what makes the jacket water-resistant. Over time and with washing, the DWR finish can degrade. Applying gentle heat can reactivate it.
Important Precautions Before Ironing:
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Check the Care Label: Always, always check the care label on your North Face jacket. Some fabrics may be heat-sensitive and unsuitable for ironing, even on a low setting. Look for instructions specifically mentioning ironing or fabrics that are compatible. If the label explicitly prohibits ironing, do not iron the jacket.
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Clean the Jacket: Ensure your jacket is clean before ironing. Any dirt or residue could melt onto the fabric during ironing, causing stains or damage.
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Use a Clean Iron: Make sure your iron's soleplate is clean and free of any residue that could transfer to the jacket.
Steps for Ironing a North Face Jacket:
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Prepare Your Iron: Set your iron to the lowest heat setting, often labeled as "synthetic" or "cool". It is extremely important to use a low temperature to avoid damaging the jacket's material.
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Use a Pressing Cloth: Place a clean, thin cotton cloth (like a pillowcase or t-shirt) between the iron and the jacket. This acts as a protective barrier and prevents direct contact with the iron's soleplate.
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Iron in Sections: Iron the jacket in small sections, applying gentle pressure. Do not leave the iron in one spot for too long, as this could cause scorching.
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Iron the Entire Surface: Systematically iron the entire outer surface of the jacket, paying attention to areas where water repellency is most important (e.g., shoulders, hood).
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Remove the Cloth and Inspect: After ironing, remove the pressing cloth and inspect the jacket. Look for any signs of damage or discoloration.
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Re-Apply DWR (Optional): While ironing can help reactivate the existing DWR, consider reapplying a DWR spray for enhanced water repellency. Follow the instructions on the DWR spray product.
Alternative Method: Tumble Drying
As noted in the reference, tumble drying on a low setting can also reactivate the DWR finish. This is often a safer option than ironing, as it avoids direct contact with a hot surface.
- Clean the Jacket: Ensure the jacket is clean.
- Tumble Dry Low: Place the jacket in the dryer and tumble dry on a low heat setting for about 20-30 minutes.
- Check the Results: Remove the jacket and check the water repellency. If needed, repeat the drying process.
Troubleshooting:
- Melting Fabric: If you notice the fabric starting to melt or stick to the iron, immediately stop ironing. The temperature is too high.
- Discoloration: If you see any discoloration, you may have used too much heat or left the iron in one spot for too long.
By following these steps and taking proper precautions, you can safely iron your North Face jacket to help restore its DWR finish.
