Stupid Iraqi dust/dirt/sand removal from gear

[williamcm]

The stuff is never ending! I was thinking just to break out the pressure washer and a 30 gal tub with mild detergent. A repeated dunking and power washing while hanging should work.

Any thoughts or precautions from anyone that has done similar?

Thanks!

[chris]

a hose might work better.

I didn't have that problem coming home in 06. that was even being a gunner for the whole year.

[OIF_VET]

Leave it. Gives your kit some character.

[NastyNate]

You got the right idea. Pressure washer is the way to go.

NastyNate

[williamcm]

Leave it. Gives your kit some character.

Tried that. Packed some stuff for a hog hunt in it. Needless to say I spent almost 2 hours re cleaning my rifle I tossed in it with everything else. I was in a hurry to pack and ignored how invasive that gritty powder is. I know my rifle would still shoot, but it made me cringe again hearing the sound of all the dirt scraping the bolt.

[furyous68]

Just remember to get some NikWax to revamp the waterproofing. Powerwashing & soap will probably degrade what's there.

[williamcm]

Just remember to get some NikWax to revamp the waterproofing. Powerwashing & soap will probably degrade what's there.

Probably would have overlooked that. Thanks! I have some mid-grade/price waterproofing spray. Does the NikWax work specifically on this material?

[steelrain82]

what gear are you talking about? deuce gear? I don't think we ever cleaned it off. just shook it out and threw it in the wash. and my last time I just turned it in to cif on my way out.

[williamcm]

Just an ILBE pack. Middle east dirt doesn't just shake out; like trying to shake out fine talc powder, but grittier and everywhere.

[steelrain82]

yeah ilbe packs may be different because all the molle straps. I used the alice pack and the molle pack that only had a few molle straps on it. I remember it would cake on if it got wet and "stain" the pack. just wash it a few times at the barracks or go to a laundry mat.

[cold100onhw1]

Try a pay and spray carwash. Lay the gear down and have at it. I still have some gear from Afghanistan in 2010 that has moon dust in the nooks and crannies.

[hermosabeach]

Laundry mat with the 5x front loading machines.

Add 2-3 tennis balls to help things agitate the sand out.

[BajaJames83]

id just lay it out in the driveway and hit it with the hose til it runs clear. you will never get it 100%

[williamcm]

id just lay it out in the driveway and hit it with the hose til it runs clear. you will never get it 100%

Pretty much. Just going to dunk, hose, repeat...