guides
Keep your gear adventure-ready
Taking care of your gear isn't just about making it last longer – it's about ensuring every piece performs exactly when you need it most.
General care guidelines
Always check the sewn-in care label on each garment, as every piece requires specific care.
Before you wash:
Turn garments inside out to preserve colours and prints
Close all zippers, buttons, and velcro to protect fabric during washing
Don't let laundry get too dirty, but try to wash your gear only after 2-3 uses
Air out gear between sessions to maintain material function longer
Washing essentials:
Wash with similar colours and fabrics
Follow dosage recommendations – excessive detergent reduces material function
Use a laundry bag for extra-thin or delicate fabrics
What to avoid:
No fabric softener – it damages performance properties
No bleach – prevents discolouration and loss of function
No tumble drying when possible – except down and other padded garments plus waterproof garments
No direct ironing – if necessary, iron inside out
Synthetic Base layers
Light. Fast-drying. Durable. Good care preserves synthetic base layers' moisture-wicking and insulating performance properties.
Washing: • Machine wash at 40°C (or as specified on care label) • Turn inside out to protect any prints or technical features • Can handle regular washing cycles and normal detergent • Occasional washing with antibacterial detergent helps reduce odour build-up Drying: • Air dry for best results and longevity • Synthetic materials dry quickly • Avoid high heat which can damage performance fibres
Hardshell Jackets
Protection from wind and rain. Good care keeps hardshell jackets waterproof and breathable, so you stay dry and comfortable.
Washing: • Limit washing to when it’s genuinely required • Preferably use a technical detergent designed for waterproof fabrics, though a liquid detergent is also acceptable • Wash at 30°C (or as specified on care label) on a gentle cycle or with a low spin setting • Rinse twice to completely remove all detergent residue • Wash alone or with similar technical garments Drying & reactivation: • Tumble dry on low heat to reactivate DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating • The heat helps restore water-beading properties Maintaining performance: • Reapply DWR treatment when water no longer beads on the surface • Store in a dry place, never compressed for long periods
Down Jackets
Provides an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio. Good care preserves down jackets' loft and insulating properties.
Washing: • Use down-specific detergent only • Wash at 30°C (or as specified on care label) on a gentle cycle or with a low spin setting Drying: • Tumble dry on low heat with clean tennis or dryer balls • Shake periodically during drying to redistribute down • Ensure the jacket is completely dry before storage • This process takes time – be patient for best results Storage: • Never store compressed – hang or lay flat • Ensure completely dry to prevent mold or mildew • Store in a breathable garment bag if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Care for your gear, care for the planet
Over-washing clothes uses water, energy, and shortens their life. The good news? Small changes can make a big difference.
At Odlo, we design high-quality gear that lasts — because longer life means fewer resources used. Washing alone can account for up to 20% of a garment’s environmental impact, so smart care matters.
Wash less, adventure more:
Wear your gear 2-3 times between washes when possible
Air out equipment after each use – fresh air works wonders
Spot clean minor dirt or stains instead of full washing
Trust your nose, not a schedule
When you do wash:
Run full loads to maximise efficiency and reduce friction between garments
Choose cooler water temperatures when care labels allow to save energy
Air dry to save energy and extend fabric life
Reducing microfibre release
Many of our products use synthetic fabrics. These offer resilience and quick-drying performance — but they can shed tiny microfibres when washed, which may contribute to pollution in rivers and oceans. Minimise this by washing full loads on short, gentle cycles, air drying and using a filter bag (like Guppyfriend) to catch fibres before they reach waterways.
The bigger picture
Every small habit change adds up. By extending the life of your sports kit through thoughtful care, you're reducing environmental impact while saving money. Your gear performs better, lasts longer, and the planet benefits too. Helping nature isn't always about grand gestures – sometimes the most powerful changes come from simple, consistent habits that become second nature.
