How to Clean a Barbour Wax Jacket
After close to a decade of faithful service, fending off rain and snow through many seasons, my beloved Barbour wax jacket had seen better days. The once shiny wax coating that gave the jacket its water-resistant properties had grown dull and battered.
Unknown dirt and stains had taken up residence in the fabric. But I was still deciding whether to retire this timeless piece of outerwear. With the proper care and maintenance, my Barbour still had many adventures ahead of it. And so I embarked on a journey to deeply clean and rewax my jacket, restoring it to its former glory.
What followed was an unexpectedly labor-intensive yet rewarding process that taught me much about the care of keeping these classic coats looking their best.
In this post, I’ll share everything I learned about how to clean a barbour wax jacket, so keep reading!
What Will You Need?
Before getting started, there are a few items you’ll want to gather. You already have most of these in your home. I recommend opting for natural and environmentally friendly products where possible. You’ll need:
- A Barbour Wax Jacket
- Mild soap (like Castile Soap)
- Sponge or soft brush
- Lint-free cloth or towel
- A tub or shallow container large enough to fit your jacket
- Lukewarm water
- Wax dressing (made explicitly for Barbour jackets)
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to get started on the cleaning process.
8 Easy Steps on How to Clean a Barbour Wax Jacket
Step 1. Pre-Cleaning
Before you begin cleaning your Barbour wax jacket, it is essential to check the care label for specific instructions. If the label indicates that dry cleaning is required, this should be done before other cleaning methods are attempted. If the label does not suggest that dry cleaning is necessary, you can proceed with pre-cleaning the jacket. Pre-cleaning involves brushing off dirt or debris from the coat’s surface using a soft brush or cloth.
Step 2. Washing
Once the pre-cleaning process has been completed, you can move on to washing your Barbour wax jacket. It is best to use cold water and mild detergent when washing a waxed jacket, as hot water and harsh detergents may damage the fabric or cause discoloration. Once you have added the detergent to the cold water, submerge your coat and let it soak for 10 minutes before gently agitating it in the soapy water for a few minutes.
Step 3. Drying and Re-Waxing
After washing your Barbour wax jacket, it is essential to allow it to air dry completely before attempting to re-wax it. To re-wax your coat, use an iron set on low heat and apply a thin layer of wax over the entire garment surface. You can also purchase a unique wax applicator if desired, but this is optional as long as you carefully keep areas of the fabric high while applying wax with an iron.
Step 4. Checking and Touch-Ups
Once you have completed the re-waxing process, take a moment to scrutinize your Barbour wax jacket. Look for any areas that may need to be included or need a second wax application. Pay particular attention to seams, creases, and pockets where water can easily seep in. Apply additional wax to these areas if needed, using the same gentle, even strokes to avoid clumping or uneven areas.
Step 5. Final Drying
After you’ve completed your touch-ups, it’s time to let your jacket dry one final time. This step is critical as it allows the newly applied wax to settle into the fabric, reinforcing its water-resistant properties.
Place the jacket on a hanger and let it hang in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause the wax to melt or the fabric to discolor. Allow it to dry for 24-48 hours. Patience is key, as rushing this step could lead to an uneven finish and compromised waterproofing.
Step 6. Testing and Maintenance
After your jacket has dried completely, it’s time to perform the water-resistance test. Sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface of the jacket; they should bead up and roll off easily, indicating that the wax has successfully adhered to the fabric.
If water is absorbed into the fabric, you may need to apply additional wax and repeat the drying process. Regular maintenance, including spot cleaning and annual re-waxing, will help keep your Barbour jacket looking its best and ensure its longevity. Congratulations on successfully learning to clean a Barbour Wax Jacket!
Step 7. Storage
After successfully cleaning and re-waxing your Barbour wax jacket, proper storage is the final step to ensure its longevity.
Always store your jacket in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause the wax to melt or the fabric to discolor. It is best to hang the jacket on a broad-shouldered hanger to maintain its shape and prevent any creases or wrinkles. If properly stored, your Barbour jacket will be ready for any weather condition the next season brings and for many more years of faithful service.
Step 8. Regular Upkeep
Regular upkeep is essential to keep your Barbour wax jacket in the best possible condition. Try to clean off any dirt or stains as soon as they appear, using a damp cloth for light soiling and the washing procedure we’ve outlined for more severe marks.
Annual re-waxing is recommended to maintain the jacket’s water resistance and overall look. If you see any signs of wear and tear, such as loose threads or damaged fabric, take your coat to a professional for repair. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that your Barbour wax jacket remains a steadfast and reliable companion in all weathers.
By following these steps on how to clean a Barbour wax jacket, you can extend the life of your jacket and keep it looking its best for many years to come.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Avoid Machine Wash: Barbour wax jackets are not meant for machine wash. The robust washing cycle can strip off the wax coating and damage the material.
- Use Cold Water: Always use cold water to clean your Barbour wax jacket. Hot or warm water can melt the wax, causing it to seep into the fabric.
- Air-Dry the Jacket: Allow the jacket to air-dry naturally. Heat sources like dryers or radiators can cause the wax to melt and ruin the jacket’s waterproofing.
- Re-Wax Annually: Your Barbour wax jacket should be re-waxed annually to maintain its durability and waterproofing. You can do this yourself or use Barbour’s official re-waxing service.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your Barbour wax jacket in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing it. This prevents any mold or mildew formation, helping the jacket to last longer.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can keep your Barbour wax jacket looking good as new for years to come.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Using Iron: Ironing your Barbour wax jacket is a big no. The heat can cause the wax to melt and seep into the fabric, damaging the jacket’s texture and protective properties.
- Avoid Using Harsh Detergents: Harsh cleaning detergents can strip off the wax coating and deteriorate the fabric. Always opt for mild soap or specialist cleaning products.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the color of the jacket to fade and the wax to dry out. Always store the jacket in a shaded place.
- Avoid Storing in Plastic Bags: Storing your Barbour wax jacket in plastic bags can cause condensation and lead to mold or mildew formation. Use breathable garment bags or hang them in a dry wardrobe.
- Avoid Professional Dry Cleaning: Regular professional dry cleaning can diminish the wax coating. For extensive cleaning, consider using Barbour’s official cleaning service. By steering clear of these practices, you can help preserve the longevity and quality of your Barbour wax jacket.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your Barbour wax jacket remains in top condition for many years.
Why Do Barbour Jackets Smell?
Barbour wax jackets have a distinctive smell due to the natural wax that makes them waterproof. This scent can be vital, especially when the jacket is new. However, the smell will fade over time as the coat becomes more broken in and familiar. If your Barbour jacket has an unpleasant odor, it may be time to clean and re-wax.
Additionally, the smell of your jacket can also be affected by how it is stored and cared for. Avoid storing the jacket in damp or musty areas,€ and regularly cleaning and re-waxing can help keep any unwanted smells at bay.
Following the steps outlined in this guide will maintain the jacket’s waterproofing and help eliminate any unwanted odors.
Conclusion
After all the hard work of cleaning and reconditioning your Barbour wax jacket, you deserve to enjoy it for years. As long as you take care of it properly and keep an eye on any wear and tear, your wax jacket will look great for many seasons. Wax jackets are timeless classics, so invest in one, as they can bring so much personality to your look.
Hopefully, the article on how to clean a barbour wax jacket has given you all the necessary information and tips to take care of your beloved jacket. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be gentle with your jacket.
So, let’s go ahead and get started on cleaning and reconditioning yours! Trust us, you won’t regret it. And remember: when it comes to wax jackets, a little TLC goes a long way!
