How to clean military clothing depends on the fabric and camouflage pattern, but these guidelines work for most military uniforms, combat shirts, and field gear:
Before Washing
- Empty all pockets.
- Close zippers, buttons, and Velcro.
- Turn garments inside out to reduce fading.
- Brush off dirt, sand, and debris.
Washing
- Use cold or warm water (not hot).
- Use a mild detergent without bleach, fabric softeners, brighteners, or strong fragrances.
- Wash similar colors together.
- Use a gentle or normal cycle.
Avoid
❌ Bleach
❌ Fabric softener (can reduce moisture-wicking and IR properties)
❌ Optical brighteners (can make camouflage more visible under night vision)
❌ Dry cleaning unless specifically authorized by the manufacturer
Drying
- Air dry when possible.
- If using a dryer, use low heat.
- High heat can shrink fabric and damage coatings or Velcro.
Stain Removal
- Mud: Let it dry, brush it off, then wash.
- Oil/grease: Apply a small amount of dish soap, let sit 10–15 minutes, then wash.
- Blood: Rinse with cold water immediately; never use hot water first.
Special Cases
- Flame-resistant (FR) uniforms: Follow the garment label exactly. Avoid chlorine bleach and fabric softeners.
- Water-resistant garments: Reapply a DWR treatment when water stops beading on the surface.
- Military gear with IRR (Infrared Reduction) treatment: Use mild detergent only and avoid brighteners, bleach, and starch.
For a Gorka suit (whether it’s a classic cotton canvas Gorka or a modern ripstop version), the goal is to clean it without shrinking the fabric or fading the camouflage.
Washing a Gorka
- Wash in cold or lukewarm water (30°C / 86°F maximum).
- Use a mild detergent.
- Turn the suit inside out if possible.
- Wash separately or with similar colors.
- Use a gentle or normal cycle.
Avoid
❌ Bleach
❌ Fabric softener
❌ Hot water
❌ Aggressive stain removers
❌ Dry cleaning (unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it)
Drying
- Air dry whenever possible.
- Hang it in the shade or indoors with good airflow.
- If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting, though air drying is strongly preferred.
Shrinkage Warning
Traditional Gorkas made from heavy cotton canvas can shrink noticeably if washed in hot water or dried on high heat. A properly sized Gorka often allows for a little shrinkage, but repeated hot washes can make it significantly tighter.
Removing Field Dirt
- Let mud dry completely.
- Brush off as much as possible before washing.
- For grease or oil, use a small amount of dish soap on the spot before laundering.
If You Want the “Field-Worn” Look
Many military enthusiasts wash Gorkas only when necessary and spot-clean them instead. This helps preserve the garment and allows it to develop a natural field-worn appearance over time.
At Tanki Store, we offer a wide selection of military clothing, uniforms, patches, and accessories. Proper care helps keep your gear looking its best and extends its lifespan for years to come.
Browse our in-stock suits collection.
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