What is PU Material?
PU is an abbreviation of Polyurethane. PU is a soft plastic that is well suited as a coating on woven or knitted textiles from which waterproof rainwear can be created. PU material is durable and relatively inexpensive and does not contain environmentally harmful PFAS chemicals or PVC.
Unlike other rainwear where the waterproof coating or membrane is on the inside of the garment, and the outer material needs water-repellent surface treatment, in a PU garment, the rain cover is at the very top. This means the fabric will not require any additional water-repellent treatment. The seams of the PU garment are welded together with heat to become waterproof and the surface of a PU garment is very smooth, which allows water to flow off easily.
How do I care for rain garments in PU material?
In order for your PU rainwear to last as long as possible, keep the following in mind:
- Hang up the garment right away when you get home. Do not leave it in a backpack or bag as this could cause the garment to have permanent folds in the PU coating.
- The material is easy to clean. Wipe away stains with a soft cloth or shower off dirt and mud.
- When the garment is wet from rain or after washing, dry it at room temperature. Turn the garment inside out and it will dry more quickly.
- Avoid drying PU garments in drying cabinets or over elements as this will dry out the material and makes it age faster, potentially causing it to crack.
- Avoid exposing the garment to too much sunlight, especially when storing. If the garment is hung near a window and is exposed to sunlight for an extended period of time, then the material will age faster. The fabric can bleach, dry and crack or become sticky.