How to Re-Waterproof Your Rainjacket | Outside, by Outside on YouTube. 2 min 6 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 6 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 6
What you need
Steps
Empty the pockets, close all zippers and flaps, and loosen the hood and hem cords. Check the care label for washing and drying limits before you start.
Wash the jacket on its own with a technical cleaner such as Nikwax Tech Wash. Use about 100 ml for one jacket on a 30°C gentle cycle.
Skip regular detergent, fabric softener and bleach. They leave residues that stop the DWR from working and can damage the waterproof membrane.
Spray the damp jacket evenly with a spray-on DWR treatment such as Nikwax TX.Direct. Pay extra attention to the shoulders, hood and sleeves.
Tumble dry the jacket on low heat for 20 to 30 minutes if the care label allows it. The heat reactivates the DWR and helps the treatment bond.
Air dry the jacket fully if it cannot go in the dryer. Test it by sprinkling a little water on the shoulder and check that it beads.
Tips and common mistakes
Use DWR sprays in a ventilated space or outdoors to avoid breathing the mist.
If water still soaks in after drying, apply a second light coat of DWR spray and warm it again.
Clean your jacket when it looks dirty, because dirt and body oils mask the DWR and make it wet out faster.
Never use fabric softener, as it coats the fabric and reduces water repellency.
Questions
Can I use normal laundry detergent?
No. Regular detergent leaves residues that mask the DWR. Use a technical cleaner made for waterproof clothing.
How often should I re-waterproof a rain jacket?
Clean the jacket when it looks dirty and reapply DWR when water stops beading. A jacket used often may need treatment once or twice a season.
Do I have to use Nikwax products?
No. Any cleaner and DWR treatment made for waterproof breathable shells will work. Nikwax is just one common brand.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
