Waterproof Care Guide

Let’s be honest: British weather loves to keep us guessing. One minute it’s blue skies, the next it’s sideways rain. There’s nothing worse than heading out for a walk, a hike, or even just the school run, only to discover your trusty waterproof jacket isn’t quite as waterproof as you remember. 

Don’t worry, though. With a few simple steps, you can keep your kit performing brilliantly, season after season. This guide will walk you through the science, the steps, and the secrets of looking after your kit.

The important thing to remember is that waterproof fabric is not just about keeping water out. It also needs to let sweat and heat escape, so you stay dry from the inside as well as the outside. That is why good waterproof gear is often described as both waterproof and breathable.

Over time, dirt, body oils, and regular wear can reduce how well waterproof fabric performs. The garment may still be structurally sound, but if the outer layer stops shedding water properly, it will start to feel heavier, less comfortable, and less effective in wet weather.

Waterproof gear works hard, so it needs a bit of care to keep performing properly. Dirt, sweat, body oils, and regular wear can reduce breathability and prevent water from beading on the surface, so your jacket or trousers start to feel less effective over time.

The good news is that most waterproofs do not need complicated maintenance. In many cases, a proper clean, the right drying method, and an occasional reproof are enough to bring them back to life.

You do not need to wash waterproof gear after every walk. In fact, over-washing can be just as unhelpful as not washing it at all. A good rule is to clean it when it starts to look dirty, feel less breathable, or stop repelling water as well as it should.

If the outer fabric is holding onto moisture instead of beading it off, that is a clear sign it needs attention. Long trips, muddy conditions, and heavy use can all speed that up.

If water stops beading on the surface and starts soaking into the outer layer, it is time to reproof. That does not necessarily mean the garment is no longer waterproof. It usually means the outer water-repellent finish has worn down, which can happen gradually through regular use, washing, and exposure to dirt and oils.

Reproofing restores that beading effect and helps the fabric perform properly again. You can usually choose between wash-in treatments and spray-on products, depending on the garment and your preference. Wash-in treatments are often easier for jackets and trousers that need a full refresh, while spray-on options can be useful if you want to target specific areas or avoid coating the entire garment.

The key is to reproof after cleaning, not before. Applying treatment to a dirty jacket or pair of trousers will not work as well because dirt and oils get in the way. Clean first, dry fully, then reproof.

• Using standard detergent or fabric softener. These can leave residues that reduce breathability and water repellency.
• Washing on a hot cycle. High temperatures can damage waterproof coatings and fabric performance.
• Overloading the machine. Waterproofs need room to move so they clean properly.
• Skipping the care label. Different garments have different instructions, and ignoring them can shorten the life of the kit.
• Drying too aggressively. Too much heat can damage the fabric, coating, or taped seams.
• Reproofing before cleaning. Dirt and oils stop the treatment from working properly.
• Storing waterproofs while damp. This can lead to smells, mildew, and long-term damage.
• Leaving small damage untreated. A worn zip, loose seam, or damaged tape can quickly turn into a bigger problem.

1. Run your washing machine on a hot cycle with nothing in it and check that the tray is clean. This gets rid of any detergent left from previous washes, which work against your garment's DWR.
2. Gently rinse off any thick dirt by hand, or for stubborn stains apply some of the Tech Wash directly onto the garment with a sponge before washing. 
3. Fasten all zips and velcro and place in the machine.
4. Shake bottle, measure out the amount specified on the label, and pour into the washing machine drawer.
5. Wash on a full cycle at 30°C/86°F or according to care label instructions.

Nikwax recommends washing no more than two items at a time. You should be able to wash reproofed kit 6-8 times with Nikwax Tech Wash before it requires reproofing with an appropriate Nikwax proofer.

1. Ensure there is no detergent or fabric conditioner residue in your washing machine.
2. Gently rinse off any thick dirt from your garment by hand, do up all zips and Velcro and place in the machine.
3. Shake bottle then add 1 capful (50ml) into the washing machine drawer for 1 jacket. Add an extra capful for every 2 garments added.
4. Wash on a full cycle at 30°C/86°F or according to care label instructions.
    

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NB: If you are short on time you can use Grangers Wash + Repel Clothing 2 in 1 instead which reproofs as well as cleans. However, heat activation is required for the DWR coating to be effective. After washing, tumble dry on low-medium heat, or gently apply heat using an iron or hairdryer. Watch video