You can revive a raincoat by re-treating its water-repellent coating, especially if cleaning and ironing haven't fully restored its performance.
When a raincoat starts losing its ability to repel water, it's often due to the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish wearing off. While cleaning helps remove dirt that can hinder the DWR, applying a new coating is the key step for revival.
Re-Treating Your Raincoat
If cleaning and ironing don't restore water repellency, apply a new coating to your raincoat. This process replenishes the DWR layer, causing water to bead up and roll off the fabric again.
You have two primary options for applying a new coating:
-
Spray-On Treatment:
- Applied directly to the clean, often damp, exterior of the jacket.
- Ideal for jackets with a wicking liner, as it only treats the outer fabric and won't interfere with the liner's moisture management properties.
- Examples include Nikwax TX Direct Spray-On or McNett Revivex.
- Follow the product instructions carefully for application and drying (often tumble drying on low heat helps activate the coating).
-
Wash-In Treatment:
- Used in a washing machine cycle.
- Treats both the inside and outside of the garment.
- May not be suitable for jackets with specific liners (like wicking liners) that you don't want to be waterproofed.
Choosing the Right Method:
Consider the construction of your raincoat:
- If your jacket has a wicking liner, go for a spray treatment to ensure the liner continues to function correctly.
- If your jacket is a simple shell without specialized liners, either method might work, but check the specific product recommendations and your jacket's care label.
By applying a new DWR coating using either a spray-on or wash-in product, you can effectively revive your raincoat and restore its water-repellent performance.
