How do you restore a raincoat?

Restoring a raincoat typically involves cleaning and reapplying a durable water repellent (DWR) finish. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Cleaning the Raincoat

Use a Tech Wash: Regular detergents can leave residues that impair the DWR finish. Use a specialized "tech wash" like Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Wash to thoroughly clean the raincoat. These washes are designed to remove dirt, oils, and residues without harming the fabric or its water-repellent properties.
Machine Wash: Follow the instructions on the tech wash bottle and your raincoat's care label. Generally, this involves washing the raincoat in a washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach.
Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all the soap is rinsed out of the raincoat. You may need to run an extra rinse cycle.

After cleaning, you'll need to reapply a DWR finish to restore the raincoat's water repellency. Several options are available:

Wash-In DWR: Products like Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In and Grangers Performance Repel are added to the washing machine during another wash cycle. Follow the product instructions carefully.
Spray-On DWR: Products like Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On and Grangers Performance Repel Plus Spray are applied directly to the clean, wet raincoat. Ensure even coverage, paying particular attention to areas that get the most wear, like shoulders and cuffs.
Choosing a DWR Product: Select a DWR product that is appropriate for your raincoat's fabric. Some products are specifically designed for certain types of materials. Consider the environmental impact of the product as well; some DWR treatments are more eco-friendly than others.

Heat helps the DWR finish bond to the fabric.

Tumble Dry (If Allowed): Check your raincoat's care label. If tumble drying is permitted, dry the raincoat on low heat. The heat from the dryer will activate the DWR finish.
Ironing (If Allowed): If tumble drying is not allowed, or if you want to further enhance the DWR finish, you can iron the raincoat on a low setting with a cloth between the iron and the raincoat. This protects the fabric from direct heat.

Clean Stains Promptly: Address stains as soon as possible to prevent them from becoming permanent. Use a mild soap and water solution to gently scrub the stain.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your raincoat regularly, even if it doesn't appear dirty, to remove dirt and oils that can degrade the DWR finish.
Store Properly: Store your raincoat in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

By following these steps, you can effectively restore your raincoat and maintain its water-repellent performance for years to come.