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:

Nikwax Tech Wash: This gentle detergent is specifically formulated to clean waterproof garments without damaging the DWR coating. We recommend Nikwax Tech Wash because it effectively removes dirt and grime while preserving the breathability of your jacket.

Nikwax TX. Direct Wash-In: This reproofing treatment re-activates the DWR coating, restoring your jacket's water repellency.

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

Here's a step-by-step guide to washing your Finisterre waterproof jacket:

Pre-treatment: Before tossing your jacket in the wash, brush off any loose dirt, mud, or debris that might be clinging to the fabric. We then recommend doing a quick 30 minute pre-wash at 30°C and an 800 rpm spin cycle before applying your Nikwax products.

Washing: Turn your jacket inside out and close all zippers and velcro fastenings. Use a cool or warm machine wash cycle (30°C) with a gentle detergent like Nikwax Tech Wash and wash for 30 minutes. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can clog the pores of the fabric and impair breathability.

Reproofing: Next you’ll want to add your Nikwax TX Direct to the washing machine and give your jacket one final wash at 30°C for half an hour with an 800 rpm spin cycle. Make sure the jacket is always washed inside out throughout the process.

Drying: Once washing is complete,the final step is to gently tumble dry the jacket to restore its water repellency. Pop your jacket into a tumble dryer on a low heat for 45 minutes - this will help fix the DWR coating added from the reproofer. Make sure not to leave it in too long or use too high a temperature, as too much heat can permanently damage the DWR coating.

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 Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In 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 Nikwax TX. Direct Wash-In. 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.