Waxed Cotton Care Advice

Proper care and treatment of your waxed cotton garment will ensure its longevity. Waxed cotton, or oilskin, is a unique high-performance fabric. It is made by weaving 2-ply cotton yarn into a strong canvas fabric, which is then treated with a proprietary mixture of micro and technical waxes. This oil/wax treatment creates a highly resistant wind and water barrier while maintaining the breathability of the cotton.


Cleaning

Regular cleaning not only enhances the appearance of your garment but removes dust and dirt that can cause premature wear. Regular cleaning also prevents dirt build-up from becoming irremovable stains.
Please follow these steps to clean your garment:
1. Remove dried mud, sand, and grit as soon as possible, especially along inner sleeve seams as these are abrasive.
2. Rinse or sponge wipe with cold water only. If dirt is ground in, gently brush it off with a soft-bristled brush and then rinse.
3. Hang to dry naturally for at least 24 hours in a dry, well-ventilated area.
4. Reproof the entire garment after cleaning.


Please refrain from doing any of the following as this will damage or remove the proofing and may void the garment's warranty:
Do not dry clean.
Do not machine wash.
Do not tumble dry.
Do not use soap or detergent of any kind.
Do not use solvents or bleach.
Do not iron or starch.
Do not force dry or expose to a direct flame.
Do not expose to direct sunlight for a long period of time (such as the rear car window).


Reproofing/Rewaxing

Most waxed cotton garments will need regular reproofing within a year if worn frequently, or even sooner if you notice that the coat is drying out due to exposure to the elements. Uneven, shiny, or dry areas, or where moisture no longer beads, are a good indicator to reproof those specific areas. It is not necessary to reproof the entire garment unless it has been washed.
By reproofing your waxed cotton jacket, you can bring back its original water-resistant finish. On top of prolonging the life of your jacket, reproofing will also revive the fabric's color and help to prevent holes from forming along the seams of your jacket. Garments can be as good as new with an easy application of reproofing wax.


Please follow these steps to reproof your garment:

1. Be sure that the garment is clean and dry. Lay it on a flat surface and apply the wax sparingly with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth.
2. Try using a hair dryer to warm the wax on the cloth and on the garment as you apply it. This will make the application easier and more uniform.
3. Spread the wax evenly, working it into the fabric in a circular motion. Do not coat the surface too thickly or it will not be able to absorb it all. Seams and worn areas will require more wax.
4. Wipe off excess wax and hang the garment to dry overnight in a well-ventilated area.
5. The next day, spread out any excess oil not absorbed. Apply more wax to areas that still appear shiny or dry.



Storage

  • To ensure the longevity of your wax cotton coat or jacket, always be sure to hang it in a well-ventilated area. Dried mud, sand, grit, and dirt should be removed as soon as possible, as it will have an abrasive effect on the waxed cotton.
  • Items stored not completely dried or stored in a humid area may well develop mildew. Once stored, regularly inspect your garment for mildew or a mildew-indicating smell to prevent damage to your garment.
  • Hang, roll or fold your garment in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space.


Special notes

Avoid contact between waxed cotton and pale-color leather car seats. As a precaution only we recommend that you do not wear garments on seats for the first couple of weeks after purchase or after reproofing. Once the natural weathering process begins, the garment will feel dryer and softer and it will then be safe to resume normal use.