Coat Waterproofing: How To Tips And Hacks

Were at the sharp end of fashion journalism here. Obviously you can rely on GLAMOUR for the latest designer news from the catwalk, the trends worth knowing and the pieces worth *adding to cart* when you're shopping, but we are also dedicated to bringing you the best fashion hacks you can actually use. Whether thats

We’re at the sharp end of fashion journalism here. Obviously you can rely on GLAMOUR for the latest designer news from the catwalk, the trends worth knowing and the pieces worth *adding to cart* when you're shopping, but we are also dedicated to bringing you the best fashion hacks you can actually use. Whether that’s insider-approved styling tips, sharing the best TikTok-approved fashion hacks or these borderline genius tips for how to waterproof your raincoat or parka if the rain keeps seeping in, we’ve got your back.

If you’ve been buffeted by Storm Dudley or want to get ready for Storm Eunice, you need to know how to make your coat properly waterproof. Even if this months’ storms are passing you by, let us remind you that April showers will probably still put in an appearance and you don’t want the rain to, literally, dampen your plans. 

These are the 19 best winter coats for women to invest in for 2024Gallery19 PhotosView Gallery

A practical, rain-proof coat is a staple wardrobe purchase (we found the best coats here) but after time the seams and areas around the zips and buttons can start to let the rain in. 

So, what is the best way to waterproof your raincoat? 

  • First up, it’s important to check the fabric of your coat and do a patch test, to ensure that any products you use won’t damage the material.
  • Then, wash your coat - because dirt and oil can impede the re-proofing process and you want to make this as successful as possible!
  • A waterproofing spray is the quickest and cheapest way to stop the rain leaking into your raincoat. Hang the coat outside on a washing line, lay it outside or spread it out on several sheets of old newspaper or cardboard. If you can’t head outside, definitely open all the windows to make sure the area is well ventilated.
  • Start spraying your coat, evenly, quickly and lightly, holding the canister about 6inches away from the garment.
  • Check you’ve covered every part of the coat, especially the shoulder seams, cuffs and fastenings and let it dry. You could do a second coat if you wish, just like with nail varnish two thin coats are better than one thick one.

    • If you have a cotton coat, you could also also use an impregnator for coat waterproofing - a liquid that soaks into the fabric to waterproof it from within (rather than the spray method above, which works on the exterior.) The more absorbent the fabric, the better the treatment will work. But how does it work?

    You need to add the impregnator liquid to warm water, submerge your coat and keep turning it to ensure it’s fully treated. Different brands of waterproofer suggest different lengths of time for the treatment and some suggest heat from an iron or tumble-drier will ‘set’ the waterproofer, if you do it before the fabric is entirely dry.

    33 of the *very* best black coats and jackets to buy now that will be timeless wardrobe staples foreverGallery33 PhotosView Gallery

    One more DIY coat waterproofing method? Oh go on then. If you have a wax jacket that is starting to leak, you can rewax it yourself. You just need a tub of wax and a whole lotta elbow grease. Heat up the wax, in it’s tin, until it’s completely soft and clear then free up your diary. You will be rubbing the warm wax into every part of the coat with a soft cloth, going over the seams particularly thoroughly. It’s a long, tough process, according to netizens, who’ve shared their DIYs but it will prolong the life of your coat, which has got to be a good thing for your pocket and the planet! Sustainable style? We're always here for it.

    For more from Glamour UK Fashion Director at large Alex Fullerton, follow her on Instagram @alexandrafullerton

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