Washing Hunting Clothes: A Step-by-Step Guide
Washing hunting clothes properly is important to remove odors and dirt, while maintaining the clothing’s effectiveness in the field. Below is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help ensure your hunting gear stays in great condition and as scent-free as possible.
Step 1: Preparing to Wash
Before you start washing, remove all items from pockets, and pre-treat any stains or heavily soiled areas with a scent-free stain remover. Turn garments inside out to protect colors and reduce the wear on the outside of the clothing.
Step 2: Selecting the Right Detergent
Choose a detergent that is free of perfumes and UV brighteners. Specialized hunting detergents are available that are designed to keep your clothing as scent-free as possible. These can be found at sporting goods stores or online.
Step 3: Washing
Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle using cold water to prevent fading and shrinking. Add the detergent according to the product’s instructions. Place your hunting clothes in the washing machine, ensuring it’s not overloaded so the clothes have enough room to agitate and rinse thoroughly.
Step 4: Rinsing
After the first wash cycle, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the detergent is washed out. Remaining detergent can hold onto odors and potentially alert wildlife to your presence.
Step 5: Drying
Air-dry your clothes outdoors if possible. This reduces the chance of lingering scents from your dryer and can also help clothes maintain their fit and size. If you must use a dryer, use a low or no-heat setting and avoid dryer sheets or fabric softeners, which usually contain scents.
Step 6: Storage
Once dry, store your hunting clothes in airtight containers or bags with earth-scented wafers or the area’s local foliage to infuse a natural scent. Store them away from contaminants like smoke, pet hair, and strong odors.
Final Tips
- If hunting garments have a waterproof membrane, check the care label for specific washing instructions to avoid damaging the membrane.
- Always consult the care tag before washing any piece of clothing to ensure you adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- It may be beneficial to run your washing machine empty with a cup of baking soda or a scent-free cleaning agent to remove any residual odors before washing your hunting clothes.
- Consider wearing rubber gloves when handling your washed hunting clothes to prevent transferring human scents from your skin.
Washing hunting clothes isn’t just about keeping them clean; it’s also about keeping them effective for concealment in the wild. By methodically following these steps, you can help ensure that your hunting attire is ready for your next outdoor adventure.