Rewax Your Barbour Jacket Like a Pro: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Possibly one of the best waxed jackets, the Barbour jacket is a symbol of British heritage and timeless style. Durable and iconic, it’s the kind of garment that gets better with age— provided you take good care of it. One crucial aspect of this maintenance is the act of rewaxing.

You may be asking yourself, “Why do I need to rewax my Barbour jacket?” The answer is simple: rewaxing not only adds years to the life of your jacket but also maintains its ability to fend off water. Plus, it restores that crisp, new-jacket sheen that makes it so irresistible. If you’ve found your Barbour’s luster dimming or noticed that it’s not quite as water-repellent as it used to be, chances are it’s in need of a rewax.

In this all-inclusive, beginner-friendly guide, we’ll take you through the A to Z of rewaxing your Barbour jacket. From spotting the telltale signs that your jacket is due for some tender loving care, to listing the necessary supplies, and of course, the step-by-step instructions to complete the rewaxing, we’ve got you covered. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have all the skills you need to keep your Barbour jacket looking and performing its best.

Ready to get those hands dirty? Let’s get started!

Why Rewax Your Barbour Jacket?

You’ve invested in a quality Barbour jacket, and naturally, you want it to last as long as possible. But did you know that regular maintenance, specifically rewaxing, is the secret sauce to ensuring your jacket stays in tip-top condition? If you’re still on the fence about whether you should go through the effort of rewaxing, here are some compelling reasons that might just tip the scale in favor of a good old waxing session.

Extends Durability

First and foremost, rewaxing plays a pivotal role in extending the durability of your Barbour jacket. Think of the wax as a protective layer that shields your jacket from the wear and tear of daily use. The original wax coating will eventually wear thin, and the material underneath becomes more susceptible to damage. By rewaxing, you’re essentially reinforcing this protective layer, thereby prolonging the life of your jacket.

Enhances Water-Resistance

The British weather is as unpredictable as it gets. One moment it’s sunny, and the next, you’re caught in a downpour. Your Barbour jacket is designed to be water-resistant, but over time, this quality diminishes. Rewaxing helps rejuvenate the jacket’s ability to repel water, ensuring you stay dry even when the skies decide to open up. And let’s face it—there’s nothing more uncomfortable than a soggy jacket!

Restores Original Appearance

One of the joys of owning a Barbour jacket is that rich, glossy sheen that it has when it’s new. However, as time passes and the jacket goes through its fair share of adventures, that shine can fade. Rewaxing restores your Barbour jacket to its original glory, making it look almost as good as the day you bought it. So not only are you improving the jacket’s functional qualities, but you’re also maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

There you have it, three irrefutable reasons why rewaxing your Barbour jacket is a good idea. By now, it should be clear that this isn’t just a cosmetic routine; it’s a vital part of keeping your investment looking and performing at its best. So, are you ready to give your Barbour jacket the care it deserves?

When Should You Rewax Your Barbour Coat?

While the benefits of rewaxing your Barbour jacket are numerous, you might still be wondering: “How often should I actually do it?” or “What are the signs that my jacket desperately needs a rewax?” You’re not alone; these are common questions for Barbour jacket owners. Luckily, we’ve got the answers right here.

Signs That Your Jacket Needs Rewaxing

Before we jump into the ideal frequency, let’s talk about the telltale signs that indicate it’s time to rewax:

1. Loss of Sheen: If your jacket has lost its characteristic glossy appearance and appears dull, it’s time to consider rewaxing.
2. Reduced Water-Resistance: Notice water soaking into your jacket rather than beading off? This is a clear sign that the wax layer has worn down.
3. Discoloration: You might spot areas where the jacket’s color looks faded or uneven. These are spots where the wax has likely worn off.
4. Stiffness or Dryness: If the jacket’s fabric feels stiff or dry to the touch, it means the wax coating has deteriorated.

Ideal Frequency for Rewaxing

The timing for rewaxing can depend on how often you wear your jacket and the conditions it’s exposed to. However, here are some general guidelines:

1. Frequent Use: If you wear your Barbour jacket almost daily, consider rewaxing it every 6-12 months.
2. Occasional Use: For those who wear their jackets only occasionally, rewaxing every 12-18 months should suffice.
3. Minimal Use: If your Barbour jacket is more of a fashion statement and seldom faces harsh conditions, you can extend the period to every 2 years.

Remember, these are just guidelines. Always pay attention to the signs your jacket shows to determine when it’s time for a rewax.

By understanding when to rewax, you’re already one step ahead in maintaining your Barbour jacket’s good looks and functionality. Now that you know the when, stay tuned as we delve into the how-tos of rewaxing your jacket in the sections to come.

What You Will Need

Before you dive into the rewaxing process, it’s crucial to gather all the materials and tools you’ll need. This way, you can focus entirely on the task at hand, without having to pause and search for a missing item. Here’s your essential checklist for a successful rewaxing session:

1. Wax: Specialized wax is a must, preferably the one recommended by Barbour or a similar high-quality brand.
2. Soft Cloth: You’ll need a soft, lint-free cloth to apply the wax. A microfiber cloth or even an old, clean t-shirt works well for this purpose.
3. Hairdryer or Heat Gun: A heat source helps the wax to penetrate the fabric more efficiently. Both hairdryers and heat guns work, but be cautious with the latter as they can get extremely hot.
4. Brushes: A set of small to medium-sized brushes is ideal for applying wax in hard-to-reach areas like seams and pockets. Ensure the bristles are soft yet firm to spread the wax evenly.
5. Newspaper or Drop Cloth: Rewaxing can get messy, so it’s advisable to place newspapers or a drop cloth under your work area to protect surfaces from accidental spills.

There you have it—your complete list of tools and materials for rewaxing your Barbour jacket. Having everything in place beforehand ensures that the process will be smooth and efficient.

Step-By-Step Guide to Rewaxing Your Barbour Jacket

Before you apply a fresh coat of wax, your jacket needs to be squeaky clean to ensure even application. You can check out the process of how I cleaned the Filson.

You’ve successfully rewaxed your Barbour jacket! It’s now ready to face the elements once again, looking as stylish and durable as ever.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best of intentions, it’s easy to make a mistake when you’re learning something new. Rewaxing your Barbour jacket is no exception. However, we’ve got you covered. Here are some common pitfalls and the best ways to avoid them.

Over-Application of Wax

• Mistake: Applying too much wax, thinking more is better.
• How to Avoid: Always start with a small amount and work your way up. A little wax goes a long way, and you can always add more if needed. Overdoing it can make the fabric greasy and attract dirt.

Skipping the Cleaning Step

• Mistake: Skipping the cleaning process and directly applying wax over a dirty jacket.
• How to Avoid: Always clean your jacket before rewaxing. Any trapped dirt or stains could become permanent if sealed in with a new layer of wax.

Inadequate Heating

• Mistake: Not using a heat source or using one with too high or low heat.
• How to Avoid: Use a hairdryer or heat gun on a moderate setting to help the wax penetrate the fabric evenly. Keep the heat source moving to avoid burning or melting the fabric.

Ignoring Hard-to-Reach Areas

• Mistake: Missing out on seams, pockets, and other hard-to-reach areas.
• How to Avoid: Use a brush to apply wax to these spots. Take your time and pay attention to the details; these areas need protection too.

By being aware of these common mistakes, you’re already a step ahead in ensuring that your rewaxing process is smooth and effective. Now you can enjoy your rejuvenated Barbour jacket without any hiccups.

Care After Rewaxing: Ensuring Longevity and Durability

Proper care after rewaxing is crucial for maintaining that fresh look and ensuring that your jacket serves you well for years to come. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Store the Jacket After Rewaxing

1. Aeration: Make sure to place your jacket in an area with good airflow to let any lingering wax fumes clear out.
2. Proper Hanging: Utilize a padded hanger to help retain the jacket’s form and avoid any stretching or creasing.
3. Avoid Plastic: Never store your waxed jacket in a plastic garment bag, as it can trap moisture and cause mildew.
4. Room Temperature: Store the jacket in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures can affect the wax, causing it to crack or melt.

Ongoing Care for Your Barbour Waxed Jacket

1. Routine Inspections: Regularly check areas of your jacket that are more prone to wear and tear, like elbows and pocket corners. These parts might require minor rewaxing before the entire jacket does.
2. Spot-Clean Only: If your jacket incurs small spills or stains, simply use a wet cloth for localized cleaning. Washing the entire jacket would remove its wax coating.
3. Heat Awareness: Keep the jacket away from direct sources of heat, such as heaters, since this can melt the wax and create inconsistent patches.
4. Yearly Rewaxing: Depending on usage, you might want to rewax your jacket annually to maintain its performance and look.

By adhering to these aftercare tips, you’re not just preserving your jacket’s newly-restored shine and functionality; you’re also ensuring that it remains a durable, reliable piece in your wardrobe for many years to come.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a complete beginner’s guide to rewaxing your treasured Barbour jacket. It might seem like a meticulous task, but the benefits far outweigh the effort. Rewaxing is not just a chore; it’s an investment in extending the life, durability, and beauty of your jacket. From enhancing water-resistance to restoring its original luster, the advantages are numerous.

We’ve walked you through each phase of the process, from understanding why and when to rewax, to preparing your jacket and workspace, to the actual rewaxing procedure. And let’s not forget the importance of avoiding common mistakes and aftercare to ensure you get the most out of your newly rejuvenated garment.

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