A Practical Guide to Cleaning Waterproof Jackets and Coats

Do you notice water soaking into your jacket sleeves during a rainstorm instead of beads of water rolling off the surface? This common problem usually means dirt and body oils are clogging the technical pores of your gear. 

Many people avoid washing their outdoor kit because they fear ruining the expensive waterproof coating. However, leaving mud and sweat on the fabric actually causes the material to break down much faster. 

So, let’s learn how to clean a waterproof coat so you can refresh your gear and stay dry in the field.

Quick Summary

To clean a waterproof coat properly, use a specialised technical wash instead of regular detergent, as standard products can damage the waterproof coating. Before washing, close all zips and fastenings to prevent wear. Wash the coat on a cool, gentle cycle. After washing, tumble dry on low heat for about twenty minutes. This heat helps reactivate the waterproof finish (DWR coating), allowing water to bead up on the surface instead of soaking into the fabric.

Essential Tools for Cleaning Waterproof Jackets

You cannot simply throw a technical jacket into the wash with your everyday laundry. Standard detergents contain perfumes and surfactants that attract water, which is the opposite of what you want for outdoor gear. 

We have found that gathering the right tools first makes the process much smoother. You will need:

• A specialist technical wash liquid 
• A soft-bristled brush or a clean sponge for removing stubborn mud.
• Access to a front-loading washing machine.
• A tumble dryer or a clean area for air drying.

How to Prepare Your Jacket for a Safe and Effective Wash

Taking a few minutes to prep your gear before it hits the water is the best way to avoid accidental damage to the technical membrane. You need to:

• Empty every pocket to make sure no stray tissues, coins, keys, or other items are left inside, which could cause a mess.
• Fasten all zips and straps so they do not snag or tear the fabric as the jacket tumbles in the drum.
• Flip the garment inside out to add a layer of protection for the outer face and the delicate water-repellent finish.

• Read the care label inside your coat. Most manufacturers specify temperature limits you must follow to avoid damaging the internal waterproof membrane.

How to Clean a Waterproof Coat (3 Simple Methods)

Once your gear is ready, you can pick a cleaning method based on how much dirt has built up. If you only have a few splashes of dried mud from a morning walk, a full machine cycle is unnecessary. 

We always suggest using the lightest touch possible to keep the fabric in top shape. Here are some of these methods:

Method 1: Quick Cleaning (Spot Cleaning for Light Dirt)

Spot cleaning is an ideal method to keep your kit tidy between major adventures. It saves a lot of time and reduces the mechanical stress of a spin cycle. 

Pick this option when the inner lining still feels fresh, but the outer shell has visible salt marks or splatters. To do the quick cleaning, you can follow this process:

1. Wait for the mud to dry completely so you can brush off the heavy crusts.
2. Use a soft brush to flick away the loose grit.
3. Dampen a clean sponge with plain water and wipe the remaining marks.
4. If the stains remain, add a tiny drop of technical wash to the sponge and rub gently.
5. Rinse the area with a fresh, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.

Method 2: Washing a Waterproof Jacket in the Washing Machine

When your kit starts to smell a bit off, or the fabric looks dull and heavy, it is time for a proper deep clean. 

Knowing how to wash a waterproof jacket in a washing machine is the most effective way to remove grime that can clog its breathable pores.

1. Wipe out the detergent drawer to remove any old powder gunk.
2. Put only one or two jackets in the drum so they have plenty of space to tumble.
3. Pour your chosen technical cleaner into the soap compartment.
4. Run a 30°C synthetic cycle with a slow spin speed using cold or lukewarm water.
5. Add a second rinse at the end with clean water to pull every last drop of soap from the fibers.

Method 3: Full Hand Washing for Waterproof Coats

For those who own delicate jackets or vintage gear, handwashing is the safest option. It lets you control how much pressure you want to apply to the taped seams. Steps of this process include:

1. Fill a bathtub with cool water and stir in a cap of technical wash.
2. Submerge the jacket fully in water.
3. You may need to gently work the fabric to help the cleaner spread evenly. 
4. Give the collar and cuffs a bit of extra attention since they soak up the most skin oil.
5. Rinse the garment multiple times until the water runs completely clear.

How to Dry A Waterproof Coat After Cleaning?

Cleaning is only part of the process, because how you dry the fabric affects how well it repels water. Most technical gear relies on a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. This coating uses microscopic structures to repel water, but these structures can flatten over time.

If your care label says it is safe, put the jacket in a tumble dryer on a low heat for twenty minutes. This warmth acts like a reset button for the DWR, making the water bead up perfectly once again. 

If you do not have a dryer, hang the coat on a plastic hanger in a room with good airflow. Avoid putting it directly on a hot radiator, as the high heat can damage the adhesives in the seams.

How Often Should You Clean Your Waterproof Jacket?

Frequent cleaning is actually a good thing for your kit if you use the right products. Salt from sweat and oils from your skin can eventually cause the waterproof tape on the seams to break down.

Active outdoor enthusiasts should aim for a wash every month. If you only use your coat for weekend walks or trips to the shops, washing it once or twice a year is fine.

You will know it is time for a wash when water starts soaking into the shoulders rather than rolling off. 

Conclusion

Looking after your outdoor gear is a straightforward task that really pays off over time. By sticking to technical cleaners and avoiding intense heat, you can keep your favourite layers in top shape for many years. Just remember to double-check the pockets and close the zips before you begin. A well-maintained jacket can keep you dry and comfortable no matter how the weather turns.

If you need gear that can actually handle the unpredictable British countryside, Game Clothing offers a solid range of tough and reliable kit. Our collection covers everything from classic tweed to modern technical jackets designed specifically for long days in the field.

Feel free to browse our latest range of waterproof jackets and coats to make sure you stay protected on your next outing.

FAQs

What is the best waterproof washing powder to use for outdoor gear? 

Do not use powders, as they often leave a residue that compromises breathability. Stick to a liquid technical cleaner to keep the waterproof membrane working as it should.

Can re-waterproofing coats help restore old waterproof jackets? 

Using a fresh spray-on or wash-in proofer can bring an old jacket back to life. If you notice water soaking into the fabric after a clean, applying a proofer while the coat is damp will restore the protective shield and help water bead up on the surface again. 

Is it ok to use a hairdryer to reactivate the waterproof coating?

Using a hairdryer is not recommended because the heat is too concentrated and uneven. This intense heat can melt the seam tape or damage the internal membrane. A low-heat tumble dryer is always the safer choice.