How to Care for Your Wax Jacket as Autumn Approaches

As the golden hues of autumn paint the countryside and the crisp air turns leaves into a crunchy carpet beneath our feet, your trusty wax jacket becomes more than just a garment – it transforms into your faithful ally in the battle against the elements.. 

Picture this: you, braving the British drizzle with a confident stride, your wax jacket steadfastly repelling the rain and embracing the season’s charm. 

Wax jackets are like the unsung heroes of British fashion. They’ve seen more stormy days and adventurous outings than most of us ever will., and they’ve done so with timeless grace. But even these stalwart companions need a bit of TLC to maintain their dashing appearance and reliable performance. Without a bit of care and reproofing, your jacket might lose its ability to fend off the autumn showers and look less dashing than you’d hoped. 

Fear not! With our guide, you’ll be equipped to keep your wax jacket in splendid shape through the rainy months. From giving your jacket a proper scrub to reapplying the essential wax coating, we’ll walk you through every step to ensure your jacket not only survives but flourishes in the autumn.

So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive into the art of wax jacket care. 

Clean Your Wax Jacket: The First Step to Refreshing

Before you can give your jacket the reproofing it so desperately needs (probably), it’s time for a bit of a spring clean – autumn style! 

Brush Off Loose Dirt: Start with a  soft brush – think of it as your jacket’s morning grooming ritual. Gently sweep away the loose first and debris that have clung to your jacket. Pay special attention to the seams and pockets, those sneaky spots are where grime loves to hide. This step is like giving your jacket a fresh start, clearing away the evidence of yesterday’s adventures. 

Spot Clean Stains: Ah, the dreaded stains! For those mischievous marks that refuse to budge, grab a damp cloth and a smidgen of mild soap. Gently dab at the stains, avoid harsh detergents or submerging your jacket in water – this is no ordinary wash. Think of it as a delicate operation: too much water, and you risk stripping away the very wax that makes your jacket a waterproof wonder. 

Rinse Carefully: If your jacket looks like it’s had a particularly muddy encounter, a rinse might be in order. But remember this is not a spa day – cold water only, please. Hot water will turn your jacket’s waterproofing into a soggy mess. Give it a gentle rinse, shake off the excess, and let it air dry. Hang it somewhere that’s not directly in the path of a radiator or under a blazing sun – your jacket needs to dry out at its own leisurely pace, not under the glare of the harsh elements. 
There you have it – the first step in preparing your wax jacket for another season of adventures. With a bit of care, your jacket will be ready to face the autumn drizzle with the same unflappable charm it’s always had.

Reproofing: Restoring the Waterproof Barrier 

Now that your wax jacket is sparkling clean and ready for action, it’s time to give it a bit of TLC to ensure it remains your stalwart defender against the autumn rain. Reproofing is like giving your jacket a fresh coat of armour, recharging its waterproof powers so you can stay dry, no matter how sideways the rain decides to come down. 

Choose the Right Wax: First things first, you need the right kind of wax. Think of this as selecting the finest ingredients for a gourmet recipe. Opt for high-quality wax specifically designed for your jacket – like our very own Wax Cotton dressing, shop it here. A Wax Spray Dressing is like the crème de la crème of jacket care. Expertly formulated to ensure a durable, water-resistant finish that laughs in the face of drizzle and downpours alike.  

Apply in a Well-Ventilated Area: Reproofing isn’t a job for a stuffy room or a tiny closet. Find a well-ventilated space where you can work without inhaling too many fumes. Lay your jacket flat or hang it up – this is your workspace, and it should be as comfortable.

Warm the Wax: Next, it’s time to give your wax a bit of a warm-up. Place the tin in warm water for a few minutes, not unlike letting your favourite teapot warm up before a cuppa. Warm wax is more pliable and spreads with ease, this step ensures the wax penetrates deeply into the fabric, giving it a thorough and even coating. 

Apply the Wax: With a clean cloth or sponge in hand, it’s time to apply the wax. Start with the seams and work your way outwards – these are the crucial areas that need extra protection. Think of it as painting a masterpiece; each stroke should be even and careful. Pay particular attention to high-wear spots like elbows, shoulders, and pockets, where wear and tear are most likely to occur. 

Allow to Soak in: Now, let the wax do its thing. Allow it to soak into the fabric for at least 12 hours. It’s like letting a good stew simmer – patience is key. This soaking period gives the wax time to bond with the jacket and ensures a thorough reproofing. 

Buff the Surface: Once the waxing is dried, it’s time to give your jacket a bit of a polish. Use a soft brush to buff the surface, removing any excess wax and giving your jacket a smooth, finished look. This final step is like the cherry on top – making sure your jacket not only performs brilliantly but also looks the part. 
We know, tough work! Reproofing might seem like a bit of a ritual, but it’s well worth it to ensure your jacket remains a reliable dashing companion through every rainy escapade. So, roll up your sleeves, grab that wax, and get your jacket back to its waterproof best – rainy days, here we come!

Regular Maintenance: Keeping your Jacket in Top Shape

Ah, the art  of keeping your wax jacket in prime condition – it’s a bit like maintaining a classic car, only with fewer engine problems and more tea breaks. To ensure your jacket continues to be your reliable autumn ally, regular maintenance is essential. Here’s some practical steps to help guide you in helping your jacket to look sharp.

Store Properly: Hang your jacket on a broad-shouldered hanger (think of it as giving it a proper, dignified stance) and store it in a cool, dry place. Direct sunlight and damp areas are the archnemeses of waxed fabric – they can cause the wax to degrade faster than a soggy biscuit in a cuppa. 

Avoid Over-Washing: Your wax jacket is a seasoned traveller, not a daily laundromat visitor. Frequent washing can strip away the wax coating. For those occasional splashes and spills, embrace the art of spot cleaning. When it comes to keeping your jacket in tip-top shape, less is more – reproofing after a good clean is the way to go. 

Repair Damages Promptly: Every adventure has its bumps and scrapes. If your jacket suffers a tear or a snag, don’t wait for it to develop into a full-blown wardrobe crisis. Patch up small tears with a matching fabric or waxed material as soon as possible. Think of it as giving your jacket a quick spa treatment – it’s all about preventing minor issues from turning into major repairs. Regular Reproofing: Just as you wouldnt skip servicing your beloved classic car, don’t forget about regular reproofing for your wax jacket. Depending on how often you sport it and the conditions it faces, aim to reproof it every 6 to 12 months. This routine and maintenance ensures your jacket remains water-resistant and continues to perform brilliantly, come rain or shine.

Take on the Season with Confidence

That’s a wrap on keeping your wax jacket in tip-top shape! With these tried-and-true tips, you’ll ensure your jacket remains as reliable and stylish as ever. Proper storage, minimal washing, prompt repairs and regular reproofing will keep it ready to tackle every autumn escapade. 

Now, go forth and embrace the season with confidence, knowing your wax jacket is perfectly prepared for whatever the British weather has in store. Discover our selection of wax jackets and care products at Walker and Hawkes, and get ready to enjoy a stylish and dry autumn, come rain or shine. Here’s to many more adventures with your trusty jacket by your side.