A Barbour waxed jacket is designed to last a lifetime, but it needs periodic maintenance to keep its weatherproofing effective. Reproofing (rewaxing) your jacket once a year — or whenever water stops beading on the surface — restores the wax coating and keeps your jacket performing at its best.
This guide walks you through the complete reproofing process using Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing, available at English Brands.
When Does Your Jacket Need Rewaxing?
Your Barbour jacket needs reproofing when:
- Water no longer beads on the surface and instead soaks into the fabric
- The jacket looks dry or faded, especially on the shoulders, elbows, and seams
- Light-coloured patches appear on areas of high wear
- It has been 12-18 months since the last reproofing
A well-maintained jacket will typically need reproofing once a year. Jackets worn daily in wet conditions may need reproofing more frequently.
What You Will Need
- Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing (200ml or 400ml — both available at English Brands)
- A clean, lint-free cloth or sponge
- A basin of warm (not hot) water
- A hairdryer (optional, but helpful)
- A clean work surface covered with old newspaper or plastic
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Step-by-Step Reproofing Guide
Step 1: Clean the Jacket
Lay the jacket flat and sponge it down with cold water to remove surface dirt, mud, and debris. For stubborn marks, use a soft bristle brush. Allow the jacket to dry completely before proceeding — applying wax to a wet jacket will not work.
Important: Never use soap, detergent, or washing machine. These strip the existing wax and damage the fabric.
Step 2: Soften the Wax Dressing
Place the tin of Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes. The wax needs to be soft and spreadable — similar to the consistency of soft butter. You can also place it near a radiator, but never melt it directly on a heat source.
Step 3: Apply the Wax
Using a clean cloth or sponge, scoop a small amount of wax and rub it into the jacket using firm, circular motions. Work in sections, starting from the top:
- Shoulders and collar — high wear area, apply generously
- Back panel — long, even strokes
- Front panels — around pockets and zip
- Arms — especially elbows and cuffs
- Seams — press wax firmly into all seams, as these are the first areas to lose waterproofing
Apply a thin, even coat. Too much wax will make the jacket sticky; too little will leave it unprotected.
Step 4: Heat and Absorb (Optional but Recommended)
Use a hairdryer on low-to-medium heat, held 6-8 inches from the jacket, to warm each section after applying the wax. The heat opens the fibres and allows the wax to penetrate deeper into the cotton. You will see the wax change from a white/opaque layer to a darker, absorbed finish.
This step significantly improves the quality and durability of the reproofing.
Step 5: Dry Naturally
Hang the jacket on a broad-shouldered hanger in a well-ventilated room (not a cupboard) and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours. The jacket may feel slightly tacky initially — this is normal and will settle as the wax fully absorbs.
Do not use direct heat, tumble dryers, or hang the jacket in direct sunlight to dry.
Step 6: Inspect and Touch Up
After 24 hours, check the jacket for any areas you may have missed. Pay particular attention to seams, creases, and areas of high wear. Apply additional wax to any light or dry patches and allow to dry again.
Storage Tips
- Hang on a broad-shouldered hanger — never fold a waxed jacket, as this creates permanent creases
- Store in a cool, dry place — avoid damp cupboards or hot lofts
- Never store in a plastic bag — the jacket needs air circulation
- Keep away from light-coloured fabrics — wax can transfer to other garments
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Machine washing — destroys the wax coating permanently
- Dry cleaning — solvents strip the wax and damage the fabric
- Using too much wax — creates a sticky, heavy jacket. Thin, even coats work best.
- Applying wax to a wet jacket — the wax will not absorb properly
- Storing folded — creates permanent creases in the waxed cotton
Professional Reproofing
If you prefer not to reproof yourself, Barbour offers a professional reproofing and repair service. Send your jacket directly to their factory in South Shields for expert treatment. English Brands can advise on this service — contact us for details.
English Brands stocks the full range of Barbour care products including Thornproof Wax Dressing in 200ml and 400ml tins. Free UK delivery on orders over £50.