CARING FOR WAX JACKETS

Wax Cotton Care Instructions

Waxed cotton, or oilskin, is a unique high-performance fabric. It is made by weaving 2-ply cotton yarn into a strong canvas fabric, which is then treated with our proprietary mixture of micro and technical waxes. This oil/wax treatment creates a highly resistant wind and water barrier, while maintaining the breathability of the cotton.

The proper care and treatment of your waxed cotton garment will ensure its longevity. When you are not wearing your garment, always be sure to hang it in a well-ventilated area. Dried mud, sand, grit and dirt should be removed as soon as possible, as it will have an abrasive effect on the waxed cotton. It is also important to reproof your Classic or Lightweight waxed cotton garment as needed.

CLASSIC AND LIGHTWEIGHT WAX COTTON

Cleaning

Regular cleaning not only enhances the appearance of your garment but removes dust and dirt that can cause premature wear. Regular cleaning also prevents dirt build-up from becoming irremovable stains.

– REMOVE dried mud, sand and grit as soon as possible especially along inner sleeve seams, as these are abrasive.
– HOSE OFF or SPONGE WIPE with cold water only. If dirt is ground in, gently brush it off with a soft bristled brush and then rinse.
– HANG TO DRY naturally and completely for at least 24 hours in a dry, well-ventilated area.
– REPROOF the entire garment after cleaning.

DO NOT dry clean • DO NOT machine wash • DO NOT tumble dry (no dryer) • DO NOT use soap or detergent of any kind • DO NOT use solvents or bleach • DO NOT iron or starch • DO NOT force dry or expose to a direct flame • DO NOT expose to direct sunlight for a long period of time (such as rear car window).

Doing any of these will damage or remove the proofing and may void the garment’s warranty.

Reproofing

Most waxed cotton garments will need regular reproofing within a year if worn frequently, or even sooner if you notice that the coat is drying out due to exposure to the elements. Uneven, shiny or dry areas, or where moisture no longer beads, is a good indicator to reproof those specific areas. It is not necessary to reproof the entire garment unless it has been washed.

By reproofing your waxed cotton jacket, you can bring back its original water-resistant finish. On top of prolonging the life of your jacket, reproofing will also revive the fabric’s color and help to prevent holes from forming along the seams of your jacket. Garments can be brought to “as new” condition with an easy application of Australian Outback Authentic Dry Feel Reproofing Cream.

– Be sure that the garment is CLEAN and DRY. Lay it on a flat surface and apply the cream sparingly with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth.
– Try using a hair dryer to WARM the cream on the cloth and on the garment as you apply it. This will make the application easier and more uniform.
– SPREAD CREAM EVENLY, working it into the fabric in a circular motion. DO NOT coat the surface too thickly or it will not be able to absorb it all. Seams and worn areas will require more cream.
– WIPE OFF EXCESS cream and hang garment to dry overnight in a well-ventilated area.
– The next day, spread out any excess oil not absorbed. Apply more cream to areas that still appear shinny or dry.

Special Notes

Avoid contact between waxed cotton and pale-colored leather car seats. As a precaution only, we recommend that you do not wear garments on seats for the first couple of weeks after purchase or after reproofing. Once the natural weathering process begins, the garment will feel dryer and softer and it will then be safe to resume normal use.

Since 1894, Barbour has been making high-quality heavy-duty jackets to help shield boat workers from the worst of the elements. Part of the way that it helps shield its wearer is through a thin wax coating on the jacket. However, this coating doesn’t stay on permanently. Indeed, you’ll have to reproof the jacket every year to keep its maximum effectiveness. Fortunately, the process isn’t that tough.

Instructions

Things You’ll Need

• • • Barbour waxed jacket
    • Barbour wax
    • Pot
    • Hairdryer
    • Sponge
    • Cloth

1. ▪ Newspaper
   Wipe down the outside of the jacket using a sponge and cold water. Do not use warm water nor try to put it in the washer and dryer, as that will permanently damage the jacket.
2. Open the top of the can of wax, and put it into a pot full of boiling water. Do not let the water touch the wax, but simply place the can in the water in order to melt the wax inside it.
3. Dab the wax onto the jacket in small and controlled amounts using a thin piece of cloth such as a dish rag or an old T-shirt. Make sure to take care of creases, cuffs and seams on the jacket. Avoid getting wax on any part that wasn’t originally waxed, such as the collar or the jacket’s lining.
4. Hang your jacket on a hanger. Put newspaper underneath it. Now, blow dry all over the jacket. This will melt away the excess wax and give the jacket an all-new sheen. The newspaper will catch the excess wax and keep it from making too much of a mess. Leave it for a day to let it set.