Caring for Waterproof Clothing: Cleaning, Reproofing & Making Your Gear Last

Outdoor clothing is designed to keep us comfortable in the worst conditions. From persistent drizzle on a countryside walk to heavy mountain rain and winter storms. But even the best waterproof jacket won’t stay effective without proper care.

Many people assume that once a waterproof jacket starts “wetting out,” it has reached the end of its life. In reality, most waterproof garments simply need cleaning and reproofing to restore performance.

In this guide, we’ll explain how waterproof clothing works, why waterproof jackets can stop performing, what happens when the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating fails, and how to properly clean and reproof your gear using the global leaders Nikwax Tech Wash and TX.Direct.

How Waterproof Clothing Works

Modern waterproof outdoor clothing usually relies on two systems working together:

1. A waterproof membrane or coating on the inner surface of the fabric
2. A Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish on the outer fabric

The Waterproof Membrane

Inside most waterproof jackets is a breathable waterproof membrane. Brands use different technologies, but they all work on a similar principle. The membrane contains microscopic pores that are small enough to prevent rain droplets from getting through, while still allowing moisture vapour i.e. sweat, to escape. This is what makes a jacket both waterproof and breathable.

Without breathability, waterproof clothing can become uncomfortable, clammy, and sweaty during activity.

The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish

The outer fabric of a waterproof jacket is treated with a DWR coating. This treatment is hydrophobic, or water repellent which causes water to bead up and roll off the surface instead of soaking into the fabric. When you see rain forming droplets on your jacket, the DWR is doing its job.

Although the waterproof membrane underneath still blocks water, the DWR plays the main role in comfort and breathability.

What Happens When Waterproof Clothing Gets Dirty?

One of the biggest enemies of waterproof clothing is dirt. Over time, mud, sweat, body oils, smoke, detergent residue, and general grime clog the outer fabric and interfere with the DWR coating.

When this happens:

• Water stops beading on the surface
• The outer fabric begins absorbing water
• Breathability drops dramatically
• The jacket can feel damp and cold inside
• Condensation builds up more easily

This process is commonly called “wetting out.” Importantly, wetting out does not always mean the waterproof membrane has failed. In many cases, the jacket simply needs cleaning and reproofing.

Why Regular Detergents Damage Waterproof Clothing

A common mistake is washing waterproof gear with standard household detergent.

Traditional detergents leave behind residues and fragrances that attract water rather than repel it. They can also damage the DWR coating and reduce breathability. Fabric softeners are even worse, as they coat fibres and interfere with the technical performance of waterproof fabrics.

That’s why specialist cleaners are recommended for outdoor clothing.

How Often Should You Wash Waterproof Clothing?

Many people avoid washing waterproof jackets because they worry about damaging them. In reality, not washing them is often more harmful. If your jacket looks dirty, feels clammy, smells musty, or stops beading water effectively, it probably needs cleaning.

For regular outdoor use, washing a waterproof jacket several times a year is completely normal. Frequent walkers, runners, cyclists, and hikers may need to clean gear more often.

How to Clean Waterproof Clothing with Nikwax Tech Wash

Nikwax Tech Wash is specifically designed for waterproof outdoor gear. Unlike normal detergent, it cleans technical fabrics without leaving behind residue or damaging water repellency.

Before You Start

Before washing your jacket:

• Empty all pockets
• Close zips and Velcro fastenings
• Loosen drawcords
• Check the care label
• Brush off heavy mud or dirt

It is also important to clean out your washing machine detergent drawer beforehand to avoid contamination from standard detergent.

Machine Washing with Nikwax Tech Wash

1. Place the garment in the washing machine
2. Add the recommended amount of Nikwax Tech Wash
3. Wash on a gentle synthetic cycle at low temperature
4. Use a slow spin setting

Do not use fabric softener!

When Does a Waterproof Jacket Need Reproofing?

Cleaning alone may restore performance if dirt is the main issue. However, if water no longer beads on the surface after washing, the DWR coating likely needs renewing.

Signs your jacket needs reproofing include:

• Rain soaking into the outer fabric
• Dark wet patches appearing quickly
• Reduced breathability
• The jacket feeling heavy in rain
• Water no longer forming beads on the surface

This is where a reproofing treatment becomes important.

How Reproofing Works

Reproofing products restore the DWR finish on the outer fabric. This helps water bead and roll away again, improving comfort and breathability.

Reproofing does not repair physical damage like tears, seam failure, or punctures, but it can dramatically improve the performance of waterproof clothing that has lost its water repellency.

How to Reproof Waterproof Clothing with Nikwax TX.Direct 

Nikwax TX.Direct is one of the most widely used waterproofing treatments for outdoor clothing. It adds water repellency back to the outer fabric while maintaining breathability.

Wash-In TX.Direct

How to Apply:

1. First clean the garment using Nikwax Tech Wash
2. Leave the item damp after washing
3. Add TX.Direct Wash-In to the washing machine
4. Run a gentle cycle according to the instructions
5. Air dry or tumble dry if the care label allows

Should You Tumble Dry Waterproof Clothing?

Some waterproof garments benefit from low heat tumble drying because heat can help reactivate existing DWR treatments. However, always check the manufacturer’s care label first. Some fabrics, membranes, or seam tapes can be damaged by excessive heat.

One advantage of Nikwax products is that they do not rely heavily on heat activation in the same way some other treatments do.

Common Mistakes That Damage Waterproof Gear

Using Standard Detergent

Regular laundry products can leave residues that reduce water repellency.

Washing Too Hot

High temperatures may damage membranes, adhesives, and seam tapes.

Ignoring Dirt Build-Up

Dirt and oils reduce breathability and accelerate DWR failure.

Storing Wet Gear

Packing away damp waterproofs can lead to odours, mildew, and fabric degradation.

Overlooking High-Wear Areas

Shoulders, cuffs, backpack contact points, and elbows often lose repellency first.

How Long Does Reproofing Last?

The lifespan of a DWR treatment depends on:

• Frequency of use
• Weather exposure
• Backpack friction
• Washing frequency
• Fabric type

Heavy outdoor users may need to reproof several times a year, while occasional users may only need annual treatment. The easiest way to check is simple:

If water stops beading effectively, it’s time to clean and possibly reproof.

Can Old Waterproof Jackets Be Saved?

In many cases, yes. A jacket that appears to have “stopped working” often simply needs proper maintenance. Cleaning and reproofing can restore performance surprisingly well — even on older garments.

However, if the waterproof membrane is physically damaged, peeling, or delaminating, reproofing alone may not fully solve the issue.

Final Thoughts

Good waterproof clothing is an investment, and proper care can significantly extend its lifespan. Regular cleaning removes the dirt and oils that reduce breathability, while reproofing restores the water-repellent finish that keeps rain rolling away from the surface.

Using specialist products like Nikwax Tech Wash and TX.Direct helps maintain performance without damaging technical fabrics.

With a little maintenance, your waterproof jacket can stay comfortable, breathable, and weather-ready for years of walking, hiking, commuting, and outdoor adventures.

Shop for Nikwax products HERE!