When it comes to high-performance base layers, proper care is essential to maintaining their effectiveness and longevity. Understanding the care products that support technical clothing is just as important as evaluating the garments themselves. Nikwax BaseWash is a specialized cleaner designed for synthetic base layers, offering a solution where standard detergents fall.

Why Nikwax BaseWash? Why shouldn’t you use a standard household detergent? Unlike general detergents, Nikwax BaseWash is specifically formulated for synthetic fabrics of which lots of base layers are made of—such as polyester and polypropylene—restoring the performance properties of those materials—like their moisture-wicking, breathability, and odor resistance capabilities—allowing the degrading process to significantly decrease over time. It’s also an ideal cleaning solution for many environmental conscious users since it is a water-based, biodegradable formula that is free from harmful fluorocarbons which makes it eco-friendly. And best of all, it’s incredibly easy to use! Just like a household detergent, it works in your standard washing machines, it requires no tumble drying or heat activation of any kind and even speeds up the drying process. If there are any deeply embedded odors in your garments, Nikwax BaseWash will remove them, however, unlike a household detergent, there is no heavy scents in it, so in order to get rid of the smell using the BaseWash, you may need repeated use in order to fully rid of those odors.

It’s important to note that Nikwax BaseWash is only intended for your base layers that are made up of synthetic materials. It is not intended for any kind of garment that is made with any kind of natural fibers like merino wool. It just doesn’t contain the right conditioning agents and will be a bit harsher and stripping on the wool which will prevent the wool fibers from staying soft and resilient over time. Using BaseWash once or twice on wool by mistake probably won’t do lasting harm, but repeated use is what will degrade the fabric affecting its feel and performance. If you wear wool regularly, switch to Nikwax’s Wool Wash for the best care and longer garment life.

(For more information on how to take care of your wool garments, click here!)

Nikwax BaseWash stands out as a must-have maintenance product that can extend the life and effectiveness of synthetic gear. It's not just about cleaning—it's about performance restoration. While it might not replace your everyday detergent, for activewear and gear under constant use, BaseWash is a smart, eco-conscious addition to your gear care toolkit.