Review on Nikwax Hardshell Cleaning and Waterproofing Duo-Pack: Ultimate Protection for Your Outdoor Gear by Aleksandre Crane

Ruined a great $250 sailing jacket. I bought this product to clean and renew 3 jackets that were beginning to lose rain protection. These were: 1) a 3 year old Gill Coastal jacket that has sailed 1,000 miles in all conditions; 2) 5 year old Marmot Precip sink; and 3) a Body Glove snowboard jacket of unknown age. They were all in excellent condition and slightly soiled but had lost some of their water repellency. I followed the NikWax directions and clothing tags letter for letter in a top load automatic washing machine. Settings: Continuous Press, Strong, Warm/Cold at medium water level. I pre-treated some stained areas with undiluted cleaner according to the instructions. I didn't dry out between the cleaner and impregnation. Results: The jackets were covered with white dots ranging from 1/4 inch to a speck of dust. At first I thought I left the napkin in one of the pockets. Previously, there were no signs of wear or damage to the layer. The jacket is useless as the layer continues to fall off. Other jackets appear to be intact and well washed but I don't see a membrane layer as they are covered with a durable lining. I tested the wicking and it recovered very well. Therefore I cannot recommend this product and I must claim compensation from the manufacturer I do not understand why no one has reported this problem yet I feel cheated. I had to order a spare jacket for an upcoming trip to the coast. Update: I contacted NikWax customer service and they got back to me very quickly and informed me that the laminate construction of these jackets is inherently this way. you me (3 years of random use?). They state that the cleaning accelerated the failure of already decomposed material that was only just held together by sweat and dirt. Recommended as a replacement for the NikWax product. In the meantime, Gill, the manufacturer of the jacket, responded immediately to my complaint and asked that the jacket be sent in for an assessment. Stay with us. ***UPDATE*** After inspecting the jacket, Gill offered to replace the jacket for free. There are no questions except what color because. The original is no longer produced. Kudos to Gil for the excellent support.