How to waterproof a Carhartt WIP jacket
Rain should bead up and roll off, not soak in. With the right product and a few simple steps, you can make your Carhartt WIP jacket reliably water-repellent again. Here you'll find a brief and practical guide on which products are suitable and how to proceed step by step.
Preparation and choice of resources
First, check the care label and the material. Treat waxed or coated fabrics with fabric wax, and unlined cotton, nylon, or polyester with a PFC-free waterproofing spray. You can find detailed waxing instructions here: Waxing a Carhartt Detroit Jacket: Instructions . Canvas models like the Carhartt WIP Santa Fe Jacket especially benefit from careful waterproofing. Avoid fabric softener, as it weakens the water-repellent finish. Test the product on an inconspicuous area first.
Step-by-step waterproofing
- Cleaning: Brush off dirt, wash in cold water without fabric softener if necessary. Allow to dry completely.
- Preparation: Lay the jacket flat and ventilate well.
- Application: Spray evenly from a distance of 15-20 cm, paying special attention to seams and shoulders.
- Allow to soak in: Wait 10 minutes, wipe off excess, apply a second coat if necessary.
- Activate: Follow the instructions and use a hairdryer or dry with low heat, then allow to cure for 24 hours.
Care routine and tips
Re-waterproof as soon as water no longer beads up or after every wash. For DWR fabrics, gentle heat helps to reactivate the effect. Apply wax sparingly and work it in while warm. Store in a dry and clean place. If you're looking for durable canvas styles that are easy to waterproof, check out the Carhartt WIP Detroit Jacket selection .
FAQ
Is it possible to make a Carhartt jacket waterproof?
Impregnation makes a material water-repellent, not waterproof. Only laminates with sealed seams offer true waterproofing.
Which jackets can be waterproofed?
Cotton, nylon, polyester, and blended fabrics are suitable. Knitwear, fleece, and leather should only be treated with special waterproofing products.
Is the Carhartt WIP Active jacket waterproof?
Generally, no. Canvas is usually only water-repellent. The Carhartt WIP Active Jacket is no exception; waterproofing improves protection but doesn't replace a membrane material.
Want to shop right after reading the guide? Here you'll find all Carhartt WIP jackets .
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