How to Wash and Re-Waterproof a Rain Jacket

Over time, rain jackets lose their water-repellent finish and let moisture soak into the outer fabric. This guide walks you through cleaning your jacket properly and reapplying a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment so water beads up and rolls off again. You will need a few basic supplies, but the process takes less than an hour and restores performance without damaging the membrane.

What You’ll Need

• Technical fabric wash (e.g., Nikwax Tech Wash, Grangers Performance Wash) or a mild, fragrance-free liquid detergent
• DWR treatment spray or wash-in product (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On, Grangers Clothing Repel)
• Washing machine (front-loader preferred) or a large basin/tub
• Clean, lint-free cloth or sponge
• Soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush works)
• Iron (optional, for reactivating DWR) or tumble dryer or hair dryer
• Access to warm water

Step-by-Step

1. Read the care label. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for washing temperature, drying method, and any specific warnings. Most jackets are machine washable, but some require hand washing.
2. Empty all pockets and close all zippers and velcro. Loose items can damage the lining, and open zippers can snag. Also loosen any drawcords.
3. Pre-treat heavy stains. Apply a small amount of technical wash directly to dirty areas (cuffs, collar, back) and gently scrub with a soft brush. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
4. Wash the jacket. Use a front-loading washing machine (top-loaders with a center agitator can be too rough). Set to a gentle cycle with warm water (30-40°C / 86-104°F). Add the technical wash according to the product’s instructions—usually about 50 ml for one jacket. Do not use fabric softener, bleach, or regular detergent (they can clog the membrane).
5. Run an extra rinse cycle. This ensures all soap residue is removed, which can interfere with water repellency.
6. Remove and check. Take the jacket out promptly. If water still beads up on the outer fabric, you may not need to reapply DWR yet. If the fabric looks wet or darkens, proceed to the next steps.
7. Apply DWR treatment. Choose either a spray-on or wash-in product. For spray-on: while the jacket is still damp, spray evenly on the outer shell from about 15-20 cm away, focusing on high-wear areas like shoulders and hood. For wash-in: add the DWR to the washing machine’s rinse cycle (or follow the product’s instructions) and run a short cycle.
8. Dry and activate. Heat activates the DWR. Tumble dry on low heat if the care label allows, or hang dry and then use a warm iron (no steam) with a cloth between the iron and the jacket, or use a hair dryer on medium heat, moving it constantly. Do not overheat—this can damage the membrane.
9. Test the result. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the jacket. They should bead up and roll off. If they soak in, you may need another coat of DWR.

Common Mistakes

• Using regular laundry detergent—it leaves residues that attract water and can damage the membrane.
• Using fabric softener—it coats the fabric and reduces breathability.
• Skipping the pre-wash or extra rinse—dirt and soap residue prevent DWR from bonding.
• Applying DWR to a dirty jacket—it won’t adhere properly, and you’ll get uneven coverage.
• Drying without heat—DWR needs heat to cure and bond to the fabric.
• Washing too frequently—only wash when the jacket is visibly dirty or losing performance, as each wash wears down the DWR.

Tips

• Always use a front-loading washer if possible. Top-loaders with a central agitator can twist and damage the jacket.
• For down-filled or insulated jackets, use a specialized down wash and add a few clean tennis balls to the dryer to fluff the insulation.
• Store your jacket hanging in a cool, dry place, not compressed in a stuff sack, to preserve the DWR.
• Reapply DWR more often to frequently worn jackets—every 3-5 washes or every few months, depending on use.
• If your jacket is heavily worn or the membrane is damaged, no amount of DWR will restore waterproofness. Check for delamination (bubbling) and consider repair or replacement.

Troubleshooting

Water still soaks in after treatment. The jacket may be too dirty or the DWR may not have been activated. Rewash with technical wash, apply a fresh coat, and ensure you use heat during drying.

DWR appears blotchy or streaky. This usually happens when the product is applied unevenly or to a damp jacket. Rewash and reapply, making sure the jacket is evenly damp and you spray in a sweeping motion.

The jacket smells musty after washing. This can be from bacteria or detergent residue. Wash again with a technical wash and add a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle (do not mix with bleach). Dry thoroughly.

The jacket is leaking at the seams. DWR only affects the outer face fabric. Seam tape may have worn off. You can use a seam sealer (like Gear Aid Seam Grip) to repair specific areas, but this is a temporary fix.

The jacket’s breathability seems reduced. This often happens when the membrane is clogged with dirt or oils. A thorough wash with technical wash and extra rinse should restore breathability. Avoid using any spray-on products on the inside of the jacket.

DWR product has dried out or separated. If the bottle has been open for a long time, it may be less effective. Shake well before use, and if it’s lumpy or has an off smell, replace it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I wash and re-waterproof my rain jacket? Only when it’s visibly dirty or water stops beading. For regular use, that’s usually every 3-6 months. Over-washing shortens the jacket’s lifespan.

Can I use regular detergent if I don’t have technical wash? It’s not recommended. Regular detergents contain surfactants that leave residues, reducing water repellency and breathability. If you must, use a tiny amount of mild, fragrance-free liquid soap, but a technical wash is best.

Should I use spray-on or wash-in DWR? Spray-on is better for targeted coverage and for jackets with a membrane that you don’t want to soak. Wash-in is easier for even coverage but may affect breathability if overused. Both work well; choose based on your jacket’s condition and your preference.

Can I iron my rain jacket to reactivate DWR? Yes, but use a low-heat setting and place a cloth between the iron and the jacket. Never use steam, and avoid ironing directly on the membrane or any printed logos.

My jacket is Gore-Tex. Is the process different? No, the process is the same for most waterproof breathable membranes (Gore-Tex, eVent, etc.). Use a technical wash and DWR that is safe for membranes. Always follow the care label.

What if my jacket is not machine washable? Hand wash in a large basin with lukewarm water and technical wash. Gently squeeze (don’t wring) the water through, rinse thoroughly, and apply DWR while damp. Dry flat or hang, then activate with a hair dryer or iron as above.

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