To re-waterproof your North Face jacket, you primarily need to reactivate or reapply its Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. This usually involves a thorough cleaning followed by applying a specialized DWR treatment, either as a wash-in solution or a spray-on application.
Understanding Your Jacket's Waterproofing
Most North Face jackets utilize a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating on the outer fabric. This DWR causes water to bead up and roll off, preventing the fabric from becoming saturated. Over time, dirt, oils, abrasion, and repeated washing can degrade this DWR, making your jacket "wet out" – meaning the outer fabric absorbs water, which can make you feel damp and reduce breathability.
It's important to remember that the jacket's internal waterproof membrane (like Gore-Tex or DryVent) remains intact, but a compromised DWR can make it feel like the jacket is leaking. Re-waterproofing effectively restores the DWR.
Step-by-Step Guide to Re-Waterproofing
Re-waterproofing your North Face jacket is a two-part process: cleaning and applying the DWR treatment.
Step 1: Pre-Wash Your Jacket Thoroughly
Before applying any waterproofing treatment, it is crucial to clean your jacket. Dirt and oil can clog up the breathable membrane found in many waterproof jackets, making it feel as though water is penetrating through the fabric. A clean surface ensures the DWR treatment adheres properly and works effectively.
How to Wash Your North Face Jacket:
- Preparation:
- Empty all pockets.
- Zip up all zippers (main, pockets, pit zips).
- Fasten any flaps or straps.
- Loosen elastic drawcords.
- Close Velcro cuffs.
- Detergent: Use a technical cleaner specifically designed for waterproof breathable fabrics, such as Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Wash. Avoid conventional detergents, fabric softeners, and bleach, as these can strip the DWR and damage the membrane.
- Washing Machine Settings:
- Wash the jacket separately from other clothing.
- Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold or warm water (check your jacket's care label for specific temperature recommendations).
- Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residue is removed.
Step 2: Apply a DWR Treatment
Once your jacket is clean, you can apply the DWR treatment. There are two main types: wash-in and spray-on.
Method A: Wash-In DWR Treatment
Wash-in treatments are ideal for ensuring an even coating over the entire garment, including less accessible areas.
- Load the Jacket: Place the freshly washed (and still damp) jacket back into the washing machine.
- Add DWR Product: Pour the recommended amount of wash-in DWR product (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In or Grangers Wash + Repel) into the detergent dispenser.
- Run Cycle: Select a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Some products recommend a specific "synthetics" or "delicates" cycle.
- Rinse (Optional): Some wash-in products require an additional rinse, while others do not. Always follow the product's instructions.
Method B: Spray-On DWR Treatment
A waterproof spray will help reproof your jacket to maximise its waterproofing and breathability. Spray-on treatments allow for targeted application and are excellent if only specific areas of your jacket need reproofing. This is also a good option if you want to avoid treating inner linings or specific features with DWR.
- Prepare Work Area: Lay the clean, damp jacket flat on a clean surface or hang it on a hanger.
- Apply Spray: Hold the spray bottle (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On or Grangers Performance Repel Spray) about 6-8 inches from the fabric.
- Even Coating: Spray an even coat over the entire outer surface of the jacket. Pay extra attention to high-wear areas like shoulders, elbows, and cuffs.
- Wipe Excess: Immediately wipe off any excess DWR solution that pools or drips with a clean cloth, as this can leave residue marks.
Step 3: Drying and Activating the DWR
Drying is a critical step, especially for heat-activated DWR treatments.
- Air Dry First: Hang your jacket to air dry in a well-ventilated area for a few hours.
- Tumble Dry (Heat Activation):
- Once the jacket is mostly dry, place it in a tumble dryer on a low heat setting for about 20-30 minutes. The gentle heat helps activate the DWR and bond it to the fabric fibers, enhancing its performance.
- If your jacket's care label prohibits tumble drying, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting, gently warming the exterior of the jacket from a distance.
Wash-In vs. Spray-On DWR: A Comparison
| Feature | Wash-In DWR Treatment | Spray-On DWR Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Via washing machine, coats entire garment | Sprayed directly onto the exterior fabric |
| Targeted | Less targeted, treats all fabric | Highly targeted, ideal for specific areas or outer shell |
| Ease of Use | Generally easier for full garment coverage | Can be more labor-intensive to ensure even coverage |
| Breathability | Can reduce breathability if inner lining is treated | Less likely to affect breathability if applied externally |
| Cost | Often slightly more per application | Can be more cost-effective for spot treatments |
Tips for Maintaining Your Jacket's DWR
- Wash Regularly: Don't wait until your jacket is visibly dirty. Regular washing with technical cleaner helps maintain the DWR by removing performance-inhibiting grime.
- Reactivate with Heat: If water stops beading, try tumble drying your clean jacket on a low heat setting for 20 minutes before resorting to a full re-waterproofing treatment. This can sometimes reactivate the existing DWR.
- Store Properly: Store your jacket in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid Contaminants: Try to avoid contact with insect repellent, sunscreen, and strong chemicals, as these can degrade DWR.
By following these steps, you can effectively re-waterproof your North Face jacket, restoring its ability to keep you dry and comfortable during your outdoor adventures.
