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How to Waterproof Jackets

How to Waterproof Jackets

Benjamin Earwicker/sxc.hu

Sometimes purchasing a jacket that will protect you from all of the elements is not always economical. If you already own a few jackets that keep you warm but lack the ability to keep you dry, a silicone waterproofing spray can fix the problem. Silicone waterproofing sprays can be used on fabric and leather, making it an ideal medium for waterproofing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Silicone waterproofing spray Jacket Clean, dry cloth Flat, well-ventilated work space Hanger
  • Silicone waterproofing spray
  • Jacket
  • Clean, dry cloth
  • Flat, well-ventilated work space
  • Hanger
Step 1
Buy a silicone waterproofing spray online or at your local sporting goods store. Silicone waterproofing sprays are manufactured under different names, and which one you choose is a matter of personal preference. Drying times vary and some require more than one coat of spray to do the job.
Step 2
Make sure that the jacket is clean and free from debris. If it is washing machine safe, give it a spin in the wash cycle and allow it to dry thoroughly before waterproofing it. If it is not washing machine safe, gently wipe it down with a dry cloth.
Step 3
Prepare your work station. Cover a hard, flat work surface with an old tablecloth or bed sheet to avoid staining. Outdoors is ideal, but if you can't manage to get outside, ensure that all pets and small children are away from the area and that all the windows are open before you apply the waterproofing spray.
Step 4
Lay the jacket flat out on your workstation. Make sure that the collar is not wrinkled and that the arms are out straight. If the jacket has a belt, remove it and lay it out separately to be waterproofed.
Step 5
Spray the silicone waterproofing spray over the jacket evenly while holding the spray bottle at least 6 inches from the fabric. Refrain from going over the same area multiple times and be sure to get into all the creases. When the first side of the jacket is completely dry, approximately 24 hours, flip it over and apply the silicone waterproofing spray to the other side in the same way you did to the first side.
Step 6
Hang the jacket in an area where it won't be disturbed for approximately 72 hours. Doing so is essential so that the waterproof silicone spray can completely cure. The jacket can be worn out into the elements when the waterproofing silicone is completely cured.

Tips & Warnings

 
Be sure to do a spot test before waterproofing an entire jacket. Spray a small area in an inconspicuous spot with the silicone waterproofing spray and let it dry overnight. The next morning, check to see if the spray has caused any staining or discoloration. Silicone waterproofing sprays are not just for jackets. They can also be used on clothing, boots, hats or any other fabrics that you wish to repel water.
 
Be sure to do a spot test before waterproofing an entire jacket. Spray a small area in an inconspicuous spot with the silicone waterproofing spray and let it dry overnight. The next morning, check to see if the spray has caused any staining or discoloration.
 
Silicone waterproofing sprays are not just for jackets. They can also be used on clothing, boots, hats or any other fabrics that you wish to repel water.
 
Some lightweight leather jackets may be made from split leather. Split leather is the under layer that is removed from a piece of hide when a thinner leather is required. Split leather is not durable and should never be exposed to a silicone waterproofing spray. Try not to cover your work station with newspaper. The ink from the newspaper can wear off and rub onto your jacket as you waterproof it. Do not place jackets that are treated with silicone waterproofing sprays in the dryer. The excess heat will remove the product.
 
Some lightweight leather jackets may be made from split leather. Split leather is the under layer that is removed from a piece of hide when a thinner leather is required. Split leather is not durable and should never be exposed to a silicone waterproofing spray.
 
Try not to cover your work station with newspaper. The ink from the newspaper can wear off and rub onto your jacket as you waterproof it.
 
Do not place jackets that are treated with silicone waterproofing sprays in the dryer. The excess heat will remove the product.

Article Written By Eleanor Jewell

Eleanor Jewell started writing in 2007. She also has a background as a licensed cosmetologist and certified skin-care specialist. Jewell is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in education and a teacher certification.

Write for Trails.com

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