Reapply Water-Repellent Spray to Water-Resistant Outdoor Clothing Annually.
Anyone who loves nature or works outside needs water-resistant outdoor clothing. If you enjoy hiking, construction work, or skiing, water-resistant clothing will keep you dry and comfy. Many people don’t realize that the water-resistance feature isn’t permanent. Dirt, sweat, and sunlight, along with the inevitable washing, will break down the protective coating. For these reasons, it is very important to reapply water-repellent spray once a year. This will keep your water-resistant outdoor clothing performing well.
Understanding the Decline of Water-Resistant Coating
Outdoor clothing is usually treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) layer. Water is repelled by covering the fabric with a strongly water-resistant layer and preventing it from soaking in. DWR layers only last for a certain amount of time with regular use. DWRs become ineffective when exposed to the sun and UV rays. These straps of sunlight can break down the chemical composition of DWRs. Dirt and oils from your skin or the environment can clog the fabric’s pores, preventing the coating from working as intended. Even your regular washes can remove DWRs, especially with harsh-high temperature washes. This becomes obvious when water no longer beads and instead soaks through the clothes, leaving the wearer damp and uncomfortable. This is a clear indication that clothing water repellent clothing needs to be treated with water repellent spray.

Selecting the Appropriate Water-Repellent Spray
Knowing how to choose the appropriate water-repellent spray is key to maintaining water-resistant outerwear. Be sure to check the type of fabric your outerwear is made of. Certain materials, such as nylon, polyester, or fleece, will need particular types of water-repellent sprays. Be sure to check the spray is designed for your material. Then, check the formulation of the spray. Similarly to other cleaning products, some sprays are multipurpose while some are designed for specific uses, such as UV protection or stain resistance. If your clothing will be used during particularly harsh climatic conditions, it is best to choose a heavy-duty water-repellent spray designed for such conditions. In addition, choose products that are easy to use, and aerosol or pump sprays that dry quickly and are non-tacky. Research and information that provides evidence will assist you choose a spray that will restore the water-repellency of your clothing. Checking the reviews will save you from making a bad choice.
Correct Steps in Applying
To get the most out of the water-repellent spray on your water-resistant outdoor gear, apply it the right way. First, get your gear clean. Wash it with a mild, detergent-free soap designed specifically for outdoor gear. This will help remove the dirt and oils, as well as the old DWR coating. Do not use fabric softeners, as they will leave a coating that will block the new spray. When you clean your gear, dry it completely. You can air-dry it or use the dryer on low heat. Just be careful it’s not damp. Moisture will block the spray from sticking. After that, lay the gear on a flat surface or hang it in a well-ventilated space. Take the spray can and hold it 6-8 inches from the gear. Apply a light, even coating. Make sure to get the seams and cuffs. Do not apply too much; no one wants a stiff gear. When you are done, you will need to let it dry for the suggested time, which is usually a few hours before using it. Some sprays even suggest for extra durability to apply a second coat one the first one dried.
Value and Protection that Lasts
Every year, when you reapply water-repellent spray to your water-resistant outdoor clothing, you help maintain and prolong the value of your investment. Well-maintained water-resistant clothing continues to protect the wearer from the elements, allowing you to remain dry and warm in rain, snow, or damp conditions. This means the clothing will not need to be replaced as often, and it is ultimately more cost-effective. Moreover, clothing in which the wearer will be moving and working will be more functional and will look better. This is important whether the clothing is a high-visibility work vest, a snow ski jacket, or a comfy fleece. It does not matter if the clothing is for work or leisure, you will be glad to have it perform when you need it. Reapply water-repellent spray as needed, and keep safe and comfortable. Make checking water-resistant outdoor clothing and reapplying spray a needed habit every year.

Home