In this golf clothing care guide, we will explain how to wash golf clothing correctly, whether you are cleaning everyday pieces, sun-protective apparel, or waterproof jackets. It also covers the common mistakes that can shorten their lifespan. 

Method 1: How to Wash Golf Clothes (Everyday Apparel)

Many modern golf polos, trousers, shorts and dresses use lightweight synthetic or blended fabrics such as polyester, nylon and elastane. These materials can respond differently to heat and washing, so following the care label helps protect their appearance, fit and performance. 

1. Separate Synthetic Garments From Heavy Fabrics

The first step is to separate synthetic golf clothes from heavy cotton items such as jeans and towels. During the wash cycle, these heavier fabrics can rub against lightweight performance materials and cause pilling or surface damage. You should also divide light and dark colours to reduce the risk of colour transfer. 

2. Prepare the Clothing for Washing

Next, empty every pocket and turn each garment inside out. This protects the visible surface and allows the water and detergent to reach areas that collect sweat. Always check the care label before continuing because instructions can differ between garments.

3. Use Cool Water and Less Detergent 

Choose cold or lukewarm water rather than a hot cycle. Add the recommended amount of detergent, as using more may leave residue and a strong smell if the machine cannot rinse it away properly. 

Keep in mind: Hoodies and other performance layers may have different washing and drying requirements. You can also read our Druids golf midlayer guide to learn more about different midlayer styles and materials.

4. Allow the Garments to Air-Dry 

Place trousers and shorts on a drying rack and hang shirts on suitable hangers. Air-drying protects synthetic fabrics from unnecessary heat.

Worth knowing: Only use a tumble dryer if the care label permits it, and select the recommended low-heat setting. High heat from the tumble dryer can damage the fine elastic threads in performance polos and trousers. 

Method 2: How to Clean Sun-Protective Golf Clothing 

Some golf clothing is designed with a stated UPF rating or fabrics that help reduce UV exposure while also managing moisture. Because materials and treatments can vary between garments, following the care label is especially important when washing sun-protective golf clothing.  Here are some steps you can follow to clean them properly: 

1. Protect the Fabric During Washing 

As with the first method, use cold water and a gentle detergent, then select the delicate washing cycle. Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals and fabric softener unless the care label specifically allows them, as these products may affect the fabric, finish or breathability of some performance garments.

2. Rinse Away Sweat, Dust, and Chlorine

Rinse the garment with cold water after a round if it has been exposed to heavy sweat, dust or chlorine.  It is important to remove these substances promptly so they do not remain on the fabric for an extended period. 

3. Choose a Low-Heat Finish

Lay the garment flat or hang it in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause fading. Again, if ironing is necessary and permitted by the care label, select a cool setting to protect the fibres from excessive heat. 

Method 3: Washing Waterproof Golf Jackets 

The next method is for waterproof golf jackets, which need careful cleaning to protect their breathable and water-repellent finishes. Below, we will share some steps that can help you clean the jacket without affecting its performance. 

1. Prepare the Jacket for Washing

Start by checking the care label, emptying the pockets, and closing all zips. Turn the jacket inside out if instructed, and gently pretreat any visible mud or stains before placing it in the machine.

2. Protect the Waterproof Finish

Wash the jacket at or below 30°C as stated on the label and use a suitable mild detergent. Do not use any fabric softener because it may leave a coating that affects the material’s breathability and water-repellent finish.

3. Dry and Reproof It Correctly

Follow the recommended drying method, as some jackets permit low-temperature tumble drying and others require air-drying. Only apply a reproofing treatment when recommended by the manufacturer. You can also read our guide to waterproof-specific care for more advice.

Common Golf Apparel Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid 

Proper golf apparel maintenance matters just as much after a round as it does during washing. Small mistakes can affect the garment’s appearance, fit, and performance, so use the table below to identify what to avoid and what to do instead. 

FAQs

What Should You Do if a Stain Remains After Washing?

Do not dry the garment because heat may make the stain more difficult to remove. Apply a fabric-safe pretreatment again, then repeat the wash cycle permitted by the care label.

How Can You Wash Golf Clothing With a Missing Care Label?

Check the garment’s product page or contact the manufacturer for the correct washing and drying instructions. You should avoid guessing whether the item can tolerate hot water, bleach, ironing or tumble drying.

Why Do Golf Clothes Still Smell After Washing?

Lingering odours may result from excess detergent, incomplete rinsing or storing the garment before it has dried completely. Run an additional rinse cycle, and allow the clothing to dry fully in a ventilated area before wearing or storing it. 

Give Your Golf Wardrobe More Recovery Time 

If you play regularly, keep several golf outfits in rotation instead of washing and wearing the same pieces repeatedly. This gives damp clothing enough time to dry and limits unnecessary wear. 

You can also expand your rotation with golf clothes from Druids, including polos, trousers, midlayers, and waterproofs for different playing conditions. Explore the full collection and choose the pieces that suit your game and local weather.