If you’ve been into travelling or hiking a lot and have tried the activity in almost all the seasons, then you must know the importance of keeping the essential gear with care. Since we are going to talk about the waterproofing of the jackets, sleeping bag, or vest, here’s a question: How long have you been using your waterproof gear but not cleaned or treated them anyway?

Well, if it’s quite long, you’ll perhaps realize that they won’t keep you dry the same way they used to. Some would say that you should not wash the waterproof items, whereas the truth is, not washing them can let the pores of the item clog and make them unbreathable. Waterproofing the gear is a straightforward way to keep them safe and maintain their shine like you bought them recently, and also, extend their shelf life for a few more years.

A Brief about DWR

Whenever there’s a talk about a waterproof jacket or any other outerwear, you’ll definitely come across the abbreviation DWR (Durable Water Repellent). DWR is a chemical coating that helps repel water and retains the fabric or cloth’s breathability. Putting up a DWR coat can increase the fibre’s surface tension in the fabric to keep the gear absolutely dry. Also, you should know that Durable Water Repellent is not a permanent thing but can be revitalized with ease.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s How You Can Re-Waterproof Down Jacket:

Things you will need:

Nikwax Tech Wash

Gear Aid Gore-Tex Fabric Repair Kit

Nikwax TX Direct Wash-In

Procedure:

Step 1: Check out your Jacket

The first step to make your rain jacket waterproof is to check it out thoroughly. Take a look on the inside. If you see the jacket’s lining is peeling and getting separated from the membrane, you should give up your wearable. Next, you need to put some water drops on the jacket. See, if your jacket comes off after shaking? Or is it beading or rolling off? If yes, there’s nothing to worry about. But, if you see water sitting on the fabric and start seeping into the fibres, you will need a DWR.

Step 2: The Jacket Needs to be Washed

Get a specifically formulated detergent and get your jacket washed. Put your jacket in the washer. If you own a front-load washer, first ensure you take out any accumulation of detergent from the dispenser and add Tech Wash (generally recommended). If you own a top-load washer, let the machine get filled with water first, then you can add the detergent. A capful of detergent would be enough for one jacket. Select the heavy cycle and go for warm water.

Now, check out the drying instructions for the jacket and dry it accordingly. You can move forward to the next step if waterproofing has not been restored.

Step 3: Use TX Direct for Washing it Again

Once you’ve completed step 2, follow the exact procedure and wash the jacket again. Here you need to use the Nikwax TX Direct Wash-In. The process will help restore the waterproofing in the membrane of the jacket. Add fresh Durable Water Repellent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 4: Let the Jacket Dry

Here, all you need to do is tumble dry the jacket for just about 10 minutes. This will help shake off maximum water and then you can begin the process of drying. Take out the jacket and let it hang overnight to dry.

Step 5: See if the Jacket has any Holes and Tears

Inspect your jacket properly to check if there are any holes, abrasions, or tears. You can always use the Gore-Tex fabric patches to cover any hole. Eliminate the chances of peeling by cutting the patch in an oval or circular shape. To get a stronger bond, put the iron on its lowest setting for some seconds on the patch. The Gear Aid’s Tenacious Tape can be used for the abrasions where you again need to cut the patches and eliminate any chances of peeling.

So, you can see that these are few and simple steps to bring back your old jacket to its original look. Who knew waterproofing a jacket could be so easy? Follow these steps and bring back the shine of your jacket in no time.