Making waterproofing your raincoat a hassle-free process with these practical tips.

Raincoats, an essential item for those rainy days, are coated with a durable water-repellant (DWR) finish. This finish allows the raincoat to be both breathable and waterproof, keeping you dry while allowing water vapor like sweat to escape.

However, the DWR coating can wear off over time due to normal wear and tear, harsh chemicals like DEET, or damage from holes or snags. In such cases, it's important to re-waterproof your raincoat regularly to maintain its effectiveness.

To clean a waterproof raincoat, use a detergent designed for waterproof clothes, such as Nikwash Tech Wash. After washing, rinse the jacket and hang it while it's still wet. Do not wring it out or tumble dry, as this can damage the DWR finish.

To re-waterproof your raincoat, spray it with a waterproofing spray like ReviveX Spray-On Water Repellent and then put it in the dryer. This process helps to restore the DWR coating, ensuring your raincoat remains waterproof.

It is recommended to re-waterproof a raincoat about once per year. If the raincoat is damaged beyond repair, it might be necessary to upgrade to a new one.

It's worth noting that the DWR finish can be susceptible to harsh chemicals like DEET, the active ingredient in insect repellent. The article does not discuss the susceptibility of a raincoat to other chemicals.

In cases of damage, it's important to remember that no waterproofing spray can restore a raincoat's waterproof properties if the damage is significant. Therefore, it's crucial to take care of your raincoat and avoid holes or snags from brambles or other sources of damage.

The article does not provide any new information about the recommended frequency of re-waterproofing a raincoat or any new waterproofing products or methods other than the ones mentioned. It also does not discuss the effects of fire on a raincoat's waterproof properties or any new raincoat options.