Wetting Out? How to Restore Your Rain Jacket’s Waterproofing

• Posted on 28 April 2025
• By BackTrails Staff
• Posted in Gore-Tex, How-To, raingear, Waterproof
• 0

Is your rain jacket wetting out instead of repelling water? Learn how to wash and reproof it to restore its waterproofing and breathability.

How to Wash & Re-Waterproof Your Rain Gear

Your rain jacket is one of the most important pieces of outdoor gear you own—it keeps you dry, blocks the wind, and helps regulate body temperature in unpredictable conditions. But over time, dirt, sweat, and oils can clog the fabric’s pores and break down the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, leaving your once-trusty shell feeling damp and less breathable.

Luckily, a little care goes a long way in keeping your waterproof gear performing at its best. Here’s how to properly clean and restore the waterproofing on your rain jacket, pants, and other technical outerwear using Grangers wash and care products.

Step 1: Check the Label & Prep Your Gear

Before tossing your jacket in the wash, take a minute to read the care label. Some brands have specific instructions, but most waterproof-breathable fabrics, like GORE-TEX and eVent, can be cleaned with a specialized wash like Grangers Performance wash.

- Close the main body zipper and Velcro tabs.
- Brush off any loose dirt or debris.
- Loosen toggles on hem and hood.

Step 2: Wash with a Technical Cleaner

Using regular laundry detergent can leave behind residues that reduce breathability and water repellency, so opt for a cleaner designed for waterproof gear.

- Use a front-loading washing machine if possible (top-loaders with agitators can be rough on technical fabrics).
- Add the recommended amount of Grangers Performance wash to the detergent compartment.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water.
- Skip the fabric softener—it can interfere with breathability.

If your gear is especially dirty, a second rinse cycle can help remove any lingering soap residue.

Step 3: Restore the DWR Coating

If you’ve noticed water no longer beading up on your jacket, it’s time to reapply the DWR coating. This can be done in one of two ways:

Option 1: Wash-In DWR Treatment

- After washing, leave the jacket in the machine.
- Add a product like Grangers Clothing Repel to the detergent compartment.
- Run a new wash cycle with warm water.

Option 2: Spray-On DWR Treatment

- Lay the damp jacket flat or hang it up.
- Evenly spray Grangers Performance Repel Spray over the entire outer surface.
- Focus on high-wear areas like the shoulders and cuffs.

Step 4: Activate the Waterproofing

Most DWR treatments need heat to fully bond with the fabric. Once your jacket is treated:

- Tumble dry on low heat for 30–40 minutes (if safe per care label).
- If machine drying isn’t an option, use a hairdryer or iron on a low setting (with a towel between the fabric and iron) to gently reactivate the treatment.

Bonus Tip: Maintain Your Rain Gear

Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your waterproof gear. Rinse off dirt and sweat after big adventures, avoid over-washing, and refresh the DWR as needed. With the right care, your rain jacket will keep you dry for seasons to come!

Keeping your rain gear in top shape means staying comfortable on the trail, on the water, and everywhere in between. Need the right wash or reproofing treatment? We carry Grangers products at in store and online—stop by and we’ll help you find what you need. Happy trails!