Nike Tech Fleece – stylish, warm (without the added weight) and oh-so-comfortable. Whether you're hitting the gym, relaxing at home, or rocking it for a trip to shops, your Nike Tech Fleece is probably one of your most loved and functional wardrobe staples.
But after a few sweaty sessions or weekend adventures, how can you try to keep it looking as fresh as the first day you bought it? We're here to help your pieces live out their best life with the ultimate guide on how to wash and dry your Nike Tech Fleece.
So, grab your favourite Tech Fleece jacket and let's dive into the step-by-step guide on how to wash and dry Nike Tech Fleece the right way.
Why You Should Take Proper Care of Nike Tech Fleece
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of washing and drying, let's quickly talk about why caring for your Nike Tech Fleece is so important. The fleece material is designed to trap body heat and keep you warm without adding bulk and weighing you down. But this performance fabric is also a little delicate, and harsh washing and drying methods could cause it to lose its shape, softness, and functionality.
Don't worry – a bit of gentle care can go a long way in preserving that premium feel, ensuring your fleece stays as fresh and cozy as possible.
How to Wash Your Nike Tech Fleece, Step By Step
Alright, let's get into it. Follow these simple steps to wash your tech fleece.
Check the Care Label
Every good laundry session starts with reading the care label and really should be the first port of call before tossing anything into the washing machine. Nike typically provides specific instructions (inside the garment) that will tell you exactly what to do to avoid damaging the fabric.
Turn It Inside Out
To protect the outer side, it's a good idea to always turn it inside out before washing. This helps prevent any unnecessary wear on the fabric and minimises friction, keeping it looking new longer.
Use Cold Water
When washing your Nike Tech Fleece, always use cold water. Hot water can break down the fabric and possibly cause it to shrink. Cold water helps preserve the fleece's shape and colour.
Gentle Cycle, Please!
Choose a gentle cycle on your washing machine. This helps maintain the softness and elasticity of the fleece without causing any harm. A regular wash cycle might be too rough on the fabric and could lead to damage over time.
Choose a Mild Detergent
Yes, the detergent you use can matter. Stick to a mild detergent that is free of harsh chemicals, which can be damaging to fabrics like Nike Tech Fleece. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can leave residue that affects the fleece's performance.
Wash with Similar Fabrics
It's always a good idea to wash your tech fleece with similar fabrics, like other fleece items or sportswear. Avoid washing it with items that have rough textures (like towels) or clothes with zippers or Velcro tabs that could cause snags.
Zip It Up
If your clothing features any zippers or pockets with fasteners, zip them up before washing. This protects both the fleece and your washing machine from any damage. Plus, zipping the pockets prevents any potential lint buildup inside.
How to Dry Your Nike Tech Fleece
Now that it's all clean and ready to go, it's time to think about the drying process. Let's face it – drying can be just as important as washing when it comes to keeping your fleece in prime condition.
Avoid the Dryer (If You Can!)
The dryer might be convenient, but it's not your best option when it comes to drying. The heat can cause the fabric to shrink, lose its softness, and damage the fibres. Instead, air drying is your safest bet.
Lay It Flat to Dry
After washing, lay your garment flat on a clean, dry surface. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from stretching or warping. If you're drying a hoodie or jacket, try to lay it on a towel to absorb excess moisture.
If you must hang it to dry, do so on a wide hanger to avoid stretching the fabric at the shoulders.
Avoid Direct Heat Sources
If you're air-drying indoors, avoid placing it directly in front of a heat source like a heater or direct sunlight. Excessive heat can cause the fabric to become brittle and lose its elasticity.
Use a Dryer on Low (Only If Necessary)
There's likely to come a time where you need your hoodie to be washed and dried quickly, but it's raining out. So with that said, can you put your Nike Tech Fleece in the dryer? Yes you can, but on the lowest heat setting. However, don't make this a habit!
High heat is never good for fleece, so opt for air-drying whenever possible. If you do use the dryer, remove your garment while it's still a little damp and let it air-dry the rest of the way.
Tips for Keeping Your Nike Tech Fleece Fresh
- Wash Less Often
- Store It Properly
- Don't Overload Your Washing Machine
- Keep It Away from Rough Textures
When you're not wearing, store it properly. Hanging it or folding it neatly will help maintain its shape. Avoid stuffing it in tight spaces where it can get crumpled or stretched out.
Make sure your washing machine is not overloaded. Giving your Nike Tech Fleece plenty of room in the wash ensures it won't be over-stressed or subjected to too much friction, leading to a longer lifespan.
When storing your fleece, avoid contact with rough textures like Velcro, zippers, or items with abrasive surfaces. These can cause snags and damage to the fabric.
Of course, some wear and tear is inevitable, but by following these simple steps you're giving your Nike Tech Fleece garments the best opportunity to feel as soft and cozy as the day you first put it on.
Whether you're gearing up for your next workout or lounging on a weekend adventure, your Nike Tech Fleece deserves the best care to ensure it lasts for years to come.
Remember: Cold water, gentle cycles, and air-drying are your best friends when it comes to preserving that premium fleece feel. With a little TLC, your Nike Tech Fleece will keep you warm, comfortable, and looking sharp for many seasons ahead.
FAQs
Does Nike Tech Fleece shrink?
We often get asked whether or not Nike Tech Fleece shrinks in the wash. Its designed with comfort, warmth and durability in mind, so the good news is that it does not typically shrink when properly cared for. The fabric is made from a blend of cotton and polyester, which is specifically engineered to retain its shape and softness over time.
However, never say never. Shrinkage can occur if you expose it to high heat during washing or drying. For example, washing your Nike Tech Fleece in hot water or drying it on a high heat setting in the dryer can cause slight shrinkage. To avoid this, it's best to wash your items in cold water on a gentle cycle and dry using the tips above.
Is Tech Fleece actually fleece?
Nike Tech Fleece isn't your typical fluffy fleece, but it is a cotton-polyester fleece blend that is both lightweight and warm. While this may sound simplistic, the construction of Tech Fleece is anything but. Nike uses an innovative thermal construction technique which blends the fleece and soft jersey feel fabric with a synthetic spacer, which reduces the weight of the fabric while still retaining its superb warmth.
Is Tech Fleece waterproof?
Tech Fleece is not waterproof. It is designed primarily for warmth and comfort – made from a blend of cotton and polyester with a soft, insulating interior. While it might handle a light drizzle for a short time, it won't keep you dry in heavier rain. However, many of our outdoor jackets are waterproof if that's what you're looking for.
Ready to Shop?
Checkout our entire range of Nike Tech Fleece online or head in-store and speak to one of our friendly rebel staff to find the right ones for you.