DWR Hydrophobic Coatings Decoded: How to Restore Waterproof Shells Without Compromising Breathability
There is nothing quite like the disappointment of watching a waterproof shell or rain jacket stop beading water and start "wetting out."
When the outer fabric becomes saturated, a breathable waterproof garment can feel cold and clammy, and moisture vapour may not escape as effectively. The result can be an uncomfortable combination of rain outside and condensation inside.
Why Does DWR Stop Working?
Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatments are not permanent. Regular wear, dirt, body oils and other contaminants can reduce their effectiveness over time.
- Keep It Clean: Dirt and other contaminants can affect the water-repellent finish. Regular cleaning, following the garment manufacturer's instructions, can help maintain performance.
- Check the Care Label: Different waterproof fabrics and DWR treatments have different care requirements. Avoid assuming that every technical shell should be washed or dried in exactly the same way.
- Try Reactivation First: On some garments, washing followed by the recommended drying or heat treatment can restore the existing DWR. GORE-TEX, for example, recommends a further period of low-temperature tumble drying to reactivate its DWR on suitable garments.
- Reapply When Necessary: If cleaning and the manufacturer's recommended reactivation method no longer restore water beading, a suitable spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment may be required.
The best approach is not simply to add more waterproofing treatment. Clean the garment first, check the manufacturer's instructions, and only re-treat the DWR when it is actually needed.
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