Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Reproofing Waterproof Gear (And How to Avoid Them)

Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Reproofing Waterproof Gear (And How to Avoid Them)

When your waterproof gear stops repelling water, it’s time to reproof. But doing it the wrong way can leave you just as wet as before. Whether it’s your hiking jacket, tent, horse rug or boots, restoring water repellency isn’t difficult, but it’s surprisingly easy to get wrong.

1. Using Regular Detergent Before Reproofing

Why it ruins waterproofing
A lot of people toss their gear in the wash with regular laundry detergent, but supermarket washing powders often leave behind residues that interfere with durable water repellent (DWR) coatings. These residues can attract water and oils, block the fabric’s pores and stop water from beading on the surface.

What to do instead
Use a cleaner made specifically for technical fabrics. Nikwax Tech Wash removes particles like dirt, smoke, sunscreen and body oils without leaving residue. It restores breathability and prepares the fabric for effective reproofing.

2. Reproofing Dirty Gear

Why it doesn’t work
Applying waterproofing treatment to dirty gear is like painting over a muddy wall. The proofing can’t bond properly and the results will be patchy.

Fix it first
Unless your item is brand new, always give it a proper clean before applying DWR treatment. Even if it looks clean, microscopic grime can prevent the waterproofing from soaking in.

Pro tip: Clean first, then proof.

3. Using the Wrong Waterproofing Product

Why it causes issues
Not all waterproofing treatments are made equal. Some are designed for specific fabrics and using the wrong one can leave your gear greasy, stiff or less breathable.

The right tool for the job
Choosing the correct product gives you long-lasting waterproofing without compromising comfort or breathability. Whether you’re reproofing a softshell jacket, a horse rug or a canvas tent, Nikwax has the right product for the job.

4. Applying Waterproofing Unevenly or Incorrectly

Why it leads to poor results
Rushing the job or applying treatment without care can lead to uneven coverage, stiff fabric or missed spots that still soak through.

The correct approach
Take your time and always follow the instructions:

  • For wash-in treatments like TX.Direct Wash-In, use the recommended amount and cycle
  • For spray-on treatments, hang the item and apply evenly, especially around seams and high-wear areas
  • Wipe off any excess with a clean cloth to ensure an even finish

5. Expecting Waterproofing to Last Forever

Why it leads to disappointment
Even the best DWR coatings wear off with use. Exposure to rough terrain, UV, mud and repeated washing will gradually reduce water repellency. If you expect one treatment to last forever, you're setting yourself up for a soggy surprise.

Best practice
Check your gear regularly. If water stops beading on the surface, it’s time for a clean and reproof. A bit of regular maintenance will keep your kit performing like new.

Waterproofing Done Right

Avoiding these common mistakes helps your gear last longer and perform better. Whether you’re on a bushwalk, camping trip, farm job or just heading out in wet weather, looking after your waterproof clothing and equipment pays off.

By using reliable, fabric-specific products like Nikwax Tech Wash and TX.Direct, you can restore the water repellency of your jackets, trousers, boots and more without damaging the gear you rely on.

Recommended Nikwax Products for Reproofing

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