How to re-waterproof a rain jacket effectively?

Even the highest quality rain jacket will eventually lose its ability to repel water. Over time, dirt, body oils, and abrasion degrade the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating on the jacket’s outer fabric, causing water to soak in rather than bead up and roll off. This ‘wetting out’ can leave you feeling damp and cold, even if the internal waterproof membrane is still intact. Fortunately, restoring your rain jacket’s water repellency is a straightforward process that can significantly extend its life and keep you dry on your adventures.

Why Your Rain Jacket Stops Repelling Water

Most modern rain jackets rely on a two-pronged approach to waterproofing: an internal waterproof and breathable membrane (like Gore-Tex, eVent, or proprietary brand membranes) and an external DWR coating. While the membrane prevents water from passing through, the DWR is crucial for preventing the outer fabric from becoming saturated. When the DWR fails, the fabric ‘wets out,’ reducing breathability and making the jacket feel heavy and clammy, even if the membrane is still technically doing its job.

When to Re-waterproof Your Jacket

The clearest sign your jacket needs re-waterproofing is when water no longer beads up on the surface but instead soaks into the fabric, creating dark patches. You might also notice a clammy feeling on the inside, as the wetted-out outer fabric impedes the breathability of the membrane. Don’t wait until you’re completely soaked; address the issue as soon as you notice diminished performance.

Step 1: Thoroughly Clean Your Rain Jacket

Before applying any new DWR treatment, it’s critical to clean your jacket. Dirt, oils, and residues from regular detergents can block the DWR from bonding effectively and can also compromise the existing DWR. Always check your jacket’s care label, but generally, follow these steps:

• Prepare the Jacket: Empty all pockets, close all zippers (including pit zips and main zipper), and fasten any flaps or cuffs.
• Use the Right Detergent: Avoid conventional laundry detergents, fabric softeners, or bleach, as these can damage the waterproof membrane and strip the DWR. Use a technical wash designed specifically for waterproof-breathable fabrics (e.g., Nikwax Tech Wash, Granger’s Performance Wash).
• Machine Wash: Place the jacket in a washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. For front-loading machines, you can usually wash one or two items. For top-loaders, wash only one item to prevent agitation damage. Use the recommended amount of technical wash.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residue is removed.

Step 2: Apply a DWR Treatment

Once your jacket is clean, it’s time to reapply the DWR. There are two main types of DWR treatments: wash-in and spray-on. The best choice often depends on the jacket’s construction and your preference.

Wash-in Treatments

Wash-in treatments like Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In are convenient as they treat the entire garment in the washing machine. However, they can sometimes treat the internal lining as well, which might slightly reduce breathability. They are generally good for garments with a lining that isn’t meant to wick moisture away from your skin.

• After Cleaning: Without drying the jacket, place it back in the washing machine.
• Add Treatment: Add the recommended amount of wash-in DWR treatment (refer to the product instructions).
• Run Cycle: Run a gentle, cold wash cycle.
• Rinse: Do not rinse. Proceed directly to drying.

Spray-on Treatments

Spray-on treatments (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On, Granger’s Performance Repel Plus) allow you to target only the outer fabric, preserving the wicking properties of internal liners. This is often preferred for jackets with moisture-wicking linings or insulation.

• Wet or Damp Jacket: Lay the clean, wet or damp jacket flat on a clean surface or hang it on a hanger.
• Spray Evenly: Spray the DWR treatment evenly onto the entire outer surface of the jacket from about 6-8 inches away. Ensure full coverage, paying extra attention to high-wear areas like shoulders and cuffs.
• Wipe Excess: Immediately wipe off any excess DWR with a damp cloth to prevent streaking or residue buildup.

Step 3: Heat Activation (Crucial for Many DWRs)

Many DWR treatments, especially those containing fluoropolymers (PFCs) or newer PFC-free alternatives, require heat to properly bond and activate. Always check the product’s instructions and your jacket’s care label.

• Tumble Dry: Place the jacket in a tumble dryer on a low heat setting for 20-30 minutes. Avoid high heat, which can damage the membrane.
• Air Dry/Iron (if tumble drying isn’t an option): If your jacket’s care label prohibits tumble drying, you can often air dry it and then gently iron it on a low, synthetic setting, placing a towel between the iron and the fabric. This method is less common but can work for heat activation.

After treatment and heat activation, water should bead up and roll off the fabric surface again, indicating a successful re-waterproofing.

Tips for Maintaining Waterproofness

• Wash Regularly: Clean your jacket more often than you think you need to. Dirt and body oils are the enemies of DWR.
• Use Technical Washes: Stick to specialized detergents for all washes.
• Minimize Abrasion: Avoid harsh scrubbing or abrasive surfaces that can wear down the DWR.
• Store Properly: Hang your jacket in a cool, dry place. Avoid compressing it for long periods.
• Re-treat as Needed: Reapply DWR when you notice water beginning to soak in again, usually after several washes or extensive use.

Conclusion

Re-waterproofing your rain jacket is an essential maintenance task for anyone who relies on their gear to stay dry. By following these steps – proper cleaning, applying a suitable DWR treatment, and heat activation – you can restore your jacket’s performance and extend its lifespan. Don’t let a wetted-out jacket ruin your outdoor experience; give your gear the care it deserves and enjoy reliable protection from the elements.