Skiing, snowboarding, sled riding, making snow angels. Whether you have children or are just a kid at heart, nothing compares with the thrill of playing in the snow. But remember, favorite wintertime activities require specialized clothing. Read on to learn how to care for garments that keep you warm and dry.

These days, most snow jackets and pants are made of waterproof-breathable nylon. This fabric is great for keeping you warm and dry. But because of its unique qualities, getting it clean can be puzzling.

The nitty gritty

First, it's best to understand what "waterproof" and "breathable" really mean. Manufacturers treat the outer layer of fabrics, like nylon, with special polymers. This treatment penetrates the fibers and lowers the surface tension of the fabric, causing water to bead up and roll off.

The inner layer of the fabric is treated to help moisture (i.e., perspiration) escape. This breathability not only keeps you dry, but it also keeps you warm since cooling perspiration is kept away from the body.

For optimal water-repellancy and breathability, it is essential to keep winter garments clean. The waterproof polymers break down due to wear and tear - from backpack straps, dirt or debris. When a waterproof fabric is dirty, water no longer beads up on its surface. Also, fabrics can lose their ability to breathe when they absorb too much oil and dirt. Neither condition means you need to buy new snow clothes. It just means the ones you have need special care.

A fresh start

Before laundering, read the instructions on the care label of any waterproof-breathable garment. It's usually safe to wash snow jackets and pants in warm water with either Tide® Liquid or Tide Powder to remove any dirt. (Just avoid using fabric softener or bleach. Additives can hinder an item's breathability.) Then tumble dry warm. The heat helps redistribute the polymers on the fabric surface.

If normal washing doesn't seem to bring your waterproof-breathable garments back to life, you may need to treat them with a topical restorative spray. This application will help to recondition the polymers and renew the waterproof qualities of the fabric.

The low down on down

Another material commonly found in snow jackets is down. It too requires special care. Before treating any down garment, always first refer to the instructions on the care label. Be consistent when cleaning - stick to dry cleaning or washing each time. If washing, follow the care label instructions and these helpful tips:

1.Start washer and add your favorite formula of Tide.
2.Submerge items when washer is half full.
3.Balance wash load by adding towels or washing two similarly colored and sized items at the same time.
4.Stop washer occasionally to press air from items being washed.
5.Tumble dry low. Add several dry bath towels and a clean pair of tennis shoes to the dryer to help tumbling action and fluff up down filling.

For dry cleaning:
Did you know that, when used as directed, Dryel® is safe for down-filled items?

Cold storage

When the spring thaw arrives, here are some tips for storing winter gear:

• Lightly brush garments after wearing and between cleanings to keep fresh.
• Do not store near direct light or heat.
• Make sure items are completely dry before storing to prevent damaging mildew.

Let it snow!

Now that you know how easy it is to care for snow clothes, you'll be yearning for a snow day more than the kids!