Over time, rain jackets can lose their water-repellency.

Waterproofing doesn’t last forever.

Whether from rubbing against a dirty car while packing up groceries, or a muddy dog wanting snuggles, a dirty jacket will stop repelling water.

Wetting Out: When your jacket stops repelling water.

Luckily, it’s easy to clean and re-waterproof your rain jacket so you can stay dry. The trick is to clean your jacket first. Most times, it’s dirt and crud that are covering the water-repellent coating, making your jacket soak up water. Also important to note, using household detergents to clean can leave behind residues that attract water, so it’s important to use a technical cleaner for items with water-repellent coatings.

Here’s how to clean:

Green Cap = Clean

1. Place jacket(s) in washing machine. If you only have one jacket, maybe ask a friend if they want a clean jacket too. They can owe you.
2. AddNikwax Tech Wash. In a top-loading machine, add 150ml for 1-3 jackets, or 250ml for 4-6 jackets. In a front loader, it’s best to add no more than two jackets with 100ml of Tech Wash. Special note: If you live in an area with hard water, toss in an extra capful of Tech Wash. If you have an HE machine, use about half the recommended amount so you don’t suds up the place.
3. Sit back with a good book and a glass of wine/beer/hot cocoa as the machine runs its course.
4. More often than not, this single cycle will be enough to have revitalized your jacket.

But my rain jacket still isn’t waterproof!

That’s ok. Don’t panic. Over time the water-repellent finish can wear off. When that happens, it’s time to add more waterproofing.

Here’s how to waterproof:

Purple Cap = Proof

1. Clean first. Always clean first. Use Tech Wash like before. Then…
2. If you have a top-loading machine, let the machine fill, then add a maximum of 3 jackets and 300ml of TX.Direct Wash-In. Run a heavy/warm cycle.
3. If you have a front-loading machine, add a maximum of 2 jackets and 200ml of TX.Direct.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions as to whether your garment should be line or tumble dried. Nikwax does not require heat for activation, so you’re good to go either way.
5. Put your jacket on and admire your waterproofed duds in the mirror.

There you have it! Now you’re ready to step out into the rain without fear of getting wet.