Even a high-quality rain jacket, such as any Gore-Tex, can lose its water repellency after repeated use. In this article, we will explain the difference between self-maintenance and professional maintenance, which can restore the effectiveness of the durable water repellent (DWR) treatment applied to a rain jacket.
DWR is a chemical treatment that makes outdoor clothing and gear water-repellent. This treatment makes the fabric water-repellent and keeps the wearer dry and comfortable.
DWR is applied to many outdoor gear and is especially effective in adverse weather and wet environments such as hiking, camping, skiing, and mountaineering.
However, DWR is not permanent. As the rain jacket is used repeatedly, the coating on the surface of the fabric will gradually deteriorate due to abrasion. It is also degraded by dirt, detergents, insect repellents, and other contaminants on the fabric.
Deteriorated DWR can be reactivated by DIY methods. The following three patterns are commonly used. Use of spray, use of special detergent for DWR reactivation, and application of heat.
Spray a mixture of solvent and DWR reactivation solution and allow to dry naturally.
This method uses a washing machine to replenish the DWR process.
Use an iron to heat up the fabric and reactivate the DWR treatment. However, be careful not to apply too much heat as it may damage the fabric.
Inexpensive with household equipment and materials.
Easy to handle at home.
Not as water repellent as factory-processed DWR.
Requires frequent reapplication.
May not be suitable for certain fabrics.
Reactivation can restore water repellency to a near-new condition through a process similar to the DWR process performed at the production facility.
Long-lasting water repellency and high performance even in harsh conditions.
Comfortable to wear and high performance.
Through a variety of tests, the DWR process is reproduced as closely as possible to the DWR process at the production facility.
Quality inspections are performed as if the product were shipped by the manufacturer.
Comparison of DIY and professional DWR reactivation
The water repellent layer is stronger and lasts longer.
Effects are not long-lasting and vary widely.
Long-lasting, does not require frequent reapplication. Therefore, initial cost is high, but long-term cost is low.
Materials and products are inexpensive. However, frequent maintenance is required.
Lasts longer and has less overall impact on the environment.
Generally lower environmental impact.
DIY and professional DWR reactivation methods each have different benefits. Professional DWR reactivation process offers high durability and performance, and is ideal for those seeking long-term water repellency. The DIY method, on the other hand, is affordable and convenient.
Whichever method you choose, maintaining the water repellency of your outdoor clothing and gear is essential to maximizing its longevity and performance. Understand that outdoor clothing requires a reasonable amount of effort and expense, and choose the appropriate maintenance method.