How To Wash & Reproof Your Waterproof Jacket

Like any high-performance outdoor gear, proper care is essential to ensure your Finisterre waterproof jacket maintains its high standard of water resistance over the many years you’ll have the jacket. By following these simple steps for washing and reproofing, you'll extend the lifespan of your jacket and create a trusted companion for countless outdoor adventures.

At Finisterre we only use fluorocarbon-free DWRs, which do not contain the harmful PFAS chemicals commonly used in waterproof jackets. To keep your Finisterre waterproof jacket performing at its best, you'll need a few key items to wash and reproof it from the comfort of home:

Storm Apparel Wash: This gentle, pH neutral detergent removes debris and dirt from the garment's surface without damaging the original treatment. We recommend Storm Apparel Wash because it effectively removes dirt and grime while preserving the breathability of your jacket.

Storm Apparel Proof: This specifically formulated treatment helps to restore DWR performance whilst leaving a patented abrasion-resistant finish.

Soft brush (optional): A soft brush can be helpful for pre-treating the garment, breaking up any stubborn dirt or grime before washing.

Storm Washcare's treatment has been specially developed to allow you to both wash and reproof your garment in one cycle. Here's a step-by-step guide to washing your Finisterre waterproof jacket:

STEP 1
Add one or two garments depending on size into the washing machine. Technical garments need to move freely to make the most of both mechanical and chemical cleaning, so avoid overfilling your drum.

STEP 2
Pour 75ml of Storm Wash into the detergent compartment & if re-proofing add 75ml of Storm Proofer into the conditioning compartment.

STEP 3
Set your machine to a cool wash (30°C) synthetic low spin cycle or a technical sport garment setting if available.

STEP 4
Follow garment care instructions for drying. If using Storm Proofer in the same wash cycle, hang to drip dry for at least 20 minutes.

STEP 5 (If re-proofing)
Heat by tumble drying according to care label or iron with a clean damp cloth between the garment and iron to activate the durable water repellent treatment.

It can be nerve wracking to try doing something technical at home but to help you avoid the most common pitfalls, here’s what to steer clear of when washing and reproofing your Finisterre waterproof jacket:

Don't use fabric softener! As mentioned earlier, fabric softener can negatively impact breathability.

Double-check for detergent residue. Before you dry your jacket, feel the inside to check if it feels soapy. If you feel any residue, rinse it out again to ensure all detergent is removed before drying.

Avoid high heat drying: Some heat is needed to restore the water repellency of the DWR but make sure not to use too high a setting or leave the jacket in for longer than the recommended time, as this can permanently damage the DWR coating.

Over time, with extended use and exposure to the elements, the DWR coating on your jacket can start to lose its effectiveness. Rain may no longer bead up and roll off as easily, causing the fabric to absorb moisture and become saturated instead. This is called ‘wetting out’ and once you see it starting to happen on the fabric of your jacket, it’s time for a re-proof.

Reproofing your jacket with a product like Storm Apparel Proof revitalises the DWR coating, restoring its water repellency and ensuring you stay dry during wet weather adventures. We recommend reproofing your Finisterre waterproof jacket when you notice it beginning to ‘wet out’ – usually after a year and then every 6 months or so subsequently, if it’s getting regular use.

There are various reproofing products available, but not all are created equal. Look for a product specifically designed for waterproof garments, like Storm Washcare. It's fluorocarbon-free, safe to use on a variety of fabrics, and effectively restores water repellency without compromising breathability.

If you’re nervous about completing this process yourself at home, we also offer a convenient Wash & Reproof service. Our expert in-house repairs team will handle the cleaning and reproofing process for you, ensuring your jacket is restored to peak performance ready for its next adventure.  

For additional peace of mind, always check the care label on your Finisterre jacket for specific washing and reproofing instructions.