How To Clean A Waterproof Coat | Alan Paine
Waterproof coats are a reliable mainstay in your winter wardrobe and an essential when exploring the great British countryside. With regular wear, these hardworking outerwear pieces can become dirty over time and benefit from a proper clean to keep them performing at their best. All waterproof clothing is treated with a water‑repellent finish, and in recent years this treatment has been updated to reduce environmental impact. Cleaning your coat correctly will make a huge difference to how it looks, how it feels to wear and how long it lasts.
Our easy waterproof coat care guide will help you keep your outerwear in tip‑top condition so it stays looking as good as new.
Is It Possible To Wash A Waterproof Coat?
The performance of waterproof garments relies on their ability to repel water while allowing moisture from inside to escape. Over time, as water begins to soak into the outer layers, the fabric can become dirty and start to lose some of its quality if it isn’t cared for correctly. The inner waterproof membrane will still keep you dry, but it won’t be able to release perspiration effectively, which can make the coat feel damp on the inside.
No need to panic though, you can easily clean and restore your waterproof clothing. Just remember never to use ordinary detergent, as the chemicals can break down the fibres and strip away the waterproof coating with every wash. Using the right cleaning products will help maintain your coat’s performance and extend its lifespan.
Hand Washing Your Waterproof Coat
The key to keeping your favourite coat in good shape is to clean it correctly, ensuring you preserve the waterproof outer. Here are our top tips for washing the coats by hand:
1. Before washing brush away and dirt from your coat.
2. Fill a sink or large bowl with cool water and a gentle detergent that won’t harm the fibres.
3. Gently submerge the coat and clean with your hands.
4. Rinse thoroughly, lift out of the soapy water and never wring your coat. Simply squeeze out the excess moisture.
5. Refill sink with cool clean water and rinse, you may need to do this several times to remove all of the soap and dirt.
6. Once clean, hang and allow to air-dry, never put directly on a heat source such as a radiator. Any wrinkles should fall out as it dries.
How to Spot Clean and Care for Your Waterproof Coat
For a lighter clean, you can spot clean your waterproof coat by using a damp, clean cloth over the affected areas - this works best when the dirt hasn’t fully dried into the fabric. If you’re washing tweed garments, please see our dedicated blog on how to care for tweed.
Hand washing a coat is always the safest option, especially if you don’t have the care instructions available. Here at Alan Paine, we also offer a range of machine‑washable coats that are easy‑care and can be popped straight into the washing machine, making regular cleaning much simpler. As always, for the best results, check the care label inside your coat for specific guidance.
Washing Your Waterproof Coat In A Washing Machine
Here are the care instructions for washing your waterproof coat in the washing machine, if your coat is able to be cleaned this way:
1. Before washing, ensure you have brushed any loose mud or dirt and close any zips or flaps.
2. Clear the detergent department of your washing machine and make sure it’s clean (you could run it on an empty wash to clear any residues from detergent or softeners).
3. If you have a special waterproof cleaner put the correct measurement into the detergent compartment.
4. Once your coat is ready, pop it into the drum with no other items.
5. Run a full wash and rinse cycle at no more than 30 degrees, but ensure you have checked each items care label as temperature can vary.
6. Once your cycle has completed, hand the coat somewhere to air dry.
How to Tell If Your Waterproof Coat Needs Reproofing
When it’s time to wash your waterproof coat, always check the care instructions on the label and follow the recommended cleaning method to keep your outerwear in good condition. If you begin to notice the fabric absorbing water rather than repelling it, this is a sign that your coat may need reproofing. Reproofing restores the durable water‑repellent finish, helping your waterproof coat perform at its best in all weather.
