This breathability keeps you both dry and warm because sweat is moved away from the body.

That dirt clogs the breathable pores and prevents water vapor from escaping.

Never machine dry it; allow it to air- or drip-dry.

A winter coat, hat, ski pants, and goggles hanging up

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Before you get started, read the manufacturer’s care label for any other special instructions.

Pre-Treat Stains

Pre-treat the stain before washing if you havegreaseor food stains such aschocolateormustard.

Unlike more delicate fabrics, snow pants can handle a little scrubbing to remove stains.

Materials to clean snow pants

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Turn thewater temperatureto cold and thecycle setting to gentle, and start the machine.

If the clothes still feel soapy after rinsing, run them through a second rinse cycle.

Be sure that the waterproofing solution is designated for clothing, not tents or sleeping bags.

Someone checking ski pants before washing

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Use cold water, and don’t put other clothes in the washer.

Air-Dry the Pants

Don’t place your snow pants or ski clothes in the dryer.

Ironing won’t be necessary because the weight of the fabric will pull out most wrinkles.

Someone pre-treating stains on snow pants

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Wash your snow pants at least twice a season.

You don’t want to wash them after every wear, especially not waterproofing-coated clothing.

Ski clothes should never bedry-cleanedbecause the cleaning chemicals are too harsh for the waterproof coating.

A laundry basket full of ski gear

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Use these same cleaning methods for youth snow pants, bibs, or snowsuits.

For example, if you see a grease stain, it could be from ski lift chairs.

You’ll find in-store patches specializing in outdoor gear, marine items, fabric, and crafting.

A container of waterproofing solution near ski gear

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Dirt or oil could prevent the repair patch from sticking properly.

Peel the backing from the patch, and place it over the tear.

Press down firmly to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles.

A winter coat, hat, ski pants, and goggles hanging up

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

The patch will reach full strength after 24 hours.

Ensure every last drop of moisture is gone before storing to avoid mildew or mold growth during the off-season.

The pants keep you warm by trapping air in the fabric’s fibers.

Do not use a vacuum-seal bag to store your snow gear.

When it’s tightly packed, the fibers get compressed, which is not good for future use.

Additional Tips for Washing Ski Pants and Snow Pants

Most all snow gear is machine-safe.

If you’re not sure, check the label.

Wash in cold water, on gentle, using a delicate detergent or a waterproof material detergent.

It’s better to use a powdered detergent instead of a liquid detergent.

Liquid detergent draws water into the fabric, decreasing the fabric’s surface tension.

Don’t wash your ski clothes after every wear unless they get visibly dirty.

Wash them at least twice a season.

Or, if you go skiing regularly, wash them once every couple of months.