Choosing the best water-repellent impregnation of 2021

In order for clothing to be comfortable for outdoor sports, travel or work, it must not allow water to pass through from the outside, but allow moisture to evaporate from the inside. To do this, water-repellent impregnations for clothing are used, which supply the top layer with additional substances that do not absorb rain or snow. Products are available in the form of a spray, for direct application before use, or as a substance added during washing. The rating of the best water-repellent impregnations for clothing has collected the most popular products of these two groups for treating jackets, raincoats, tents, trousers, textile canopies and other fabric materials.

Terms of use

It is important to know not only what to impregnate the fabric with so that it does not let water through, but also how to use this product correctly.

First you need to choose the right impregnation.

• Decide what exactly you need it for - for clothes, a tent, a backpack, and so on. There are also products on sale that are suitable for all of the above.
• Choose impregnation based on the material - membrane or non-membrane fabric, synthetics, suede, down products, and so on.

Impregnation is available in two forms.

• In the first case, this is a substance that is sold in a jar. It must be dissolved in a certain amount of water. And rinse the material in this liquid. When processing in this way, you don’t have to worry about missing some area of ​​the fabric. However, this method is more labor-intensive and rather inconvenient, so most people choose impregnation in a different form.
• In the form of a spray (aerosol or atomizer) or sponge. Here the substance is already distributed throughout the tissue directly from the container. This method is much simpler and less energy-intensive. True, you will have to apply the product very carefully so as not to miss areas of the tissue.

Advice

Follow the two most important rules when applying impregnation:

• Such manipulations must be carried out with a clean cloth;
• if you use an aerosol, then carry out the procedure outside or in a ventilated area.

Summary

• Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is a treatment used to treat the outside of clothing, footwear, or equipment to make it hydrophobic.
• According to the degree of effectiveness, impregnations are divided into WR (5/80), DWR (10/80–20/80), SDWR (50/80–100/80) - the first number in the ratio indicates the number of washes at which 80% efficiency is maintained impregnation.
• DWR impregnations ensure effective operation of the membrane during rain or high humidity conditions.
• Friction, prolonged exposure to moisture, ultraviolet rays, pollution and frequent washing destroy the water-repellent coating, so the impregnation should be renewed from time to time.
• DWR impregnations vary in their purpose. They are used for both membrane and any other water-repellent, breathable clothing, as well as for insulated clothing and shoes.
• When choosing DWR, you should always adhere to the purpose of this impregnation and strictly follow the instructions for its use.

Leading manufacturers of hydrophobic fabric treatments

Household chemical stores sell a large number of good moisture-proofing compounds.

The list of the best manufacturers includes:

1. Trekko is a Russian company that produces care products for outerwear, shoes and travel equipment.
2. Collonil is a German company on the market since 1909.
3. Tarrago is a brand from Spain.
4. Nanomax is a Russian manufacturer of protective products for clothing and footwear.
5. Salton is a Russian brand that occupies leading positions in shoe cosmetics ratings.
6. Salamander is a German company with a reliable reputation and extensive experience in the market.
7. Saphir is a manufacturer from France.

According to customer reviews, the products of these companies make the fabric waterproof and extend the life of clothing.

Criterias of choice

In order not to spoil your favorite pair, it is important to choose the right water-repellent mixture. Not all copies are universal. Products containing fats should not be used on suede shoes.

There are many items on the market: sprays in cans, wax and cream textures. You can easily choose the most convenient format.

Aerosols are becoming increasingly popular. They are easy to use, often versatile and require less impregnation time. The only drawback of this format is wasteful consumption. You need to choose the most convenient option to use.

It is better to give preference to trusted manufacturers such as Salamander, KIWI, Salton, Collonil, Solemate Shield. The products of these brands are more expensive, but this is justified by their undeniable quality, which provides reliable protection.

This is interesting: How to remove pen ink from clothes at home

What is it used for?

The water-repellent properties of the material can be increased by using a special emulsion. The film that is created on the fabric when applying this composition is waterproof, but air passes through it. In fact, the substances used in such compositions do not literally “repel water”, but attract its molecules weaker than usual.

Modern sportswear, special equipment, and travel equipment already initially have a special water-repellent layer. But after some time it still washes off. Special compounds come to the aid of active people, athletes, and travelers, returning special properties to these clothes. Water again stops being absorbed into the fabric fibers and slides off its surface.

Water-repellent impregnation for clothing is used for the following purposes:

• processing of outdoor curtains;
• impregnation of fabric parts of baby strollers;
• enhancing the water-repellent effect of overalls for small dogs;
• processing of backpacks, tents, and other woven camping accessories;
• impregnation of any clothing: jackets, gloves, pants, caps, raincoats;
• processing of street shoes (both leather and fabric);
• protection from moisture of street ropes for drying clothes.

The item to be soaked must be clean, dry, and previously prepared. If there is dirt on the surface being treated, the protective coating can be completely destroyed. Special products for washing and cleaning such items are gentle on fabric fibers. They are able to preserve the ventilation properties of the material and overall integrity, although they cannot handle greasy and oil stains. To remove stubborn stains, you will have to use a brush and soap to help.

The best water-repellent impregnations in the form of detergent

Such substances are added to the water after the main wash of clothes, so they remain not only in the top layer, but penetrate deep into the structure of the fabric. This promotes more even distribution.

You can process several items at once, but you will need to wait a long time to dry before using.

GRANGER'S CLOTHING REPEL - for climber's clothing

This is the best water-repellent impregnation for climber’s clothing from a global brand with its homeland in the UK. The product comes in a 300 ml container and is added to the washing machine drum without harming the latter.

The substance penetrates well into matter and helps repel water from the surface, as well as maintain “breathing” properties, which is important for active sports. Drum drying is allowed, which speeds up the drying process.

READ ALSO

11 Best Tents for Ice Fishing

Pros:

• Suitable for trousers, sweatpants and jackets;
• restores the water-repellent layer on professional mountaineering clothing;
• simple method of application - in water after washing;
• combines with products created using Gore-Tex and eVENT technology;
• safe for washing machine elements;
• drying is allowed;
• uniform application to fabric in a machine in 2.5 minutes.

Minuses:

• cost from 1000 rubles;
• It is more difficult to calculate consumption when there is a large amount of laundry that needs to be processed.

NIKWAX POLAR PROOF - for wool and thermal velor

This is the best water-repellent impregnation for fabrics that tend to absorb moisture, be it wool or thermal clothing.

Due to their large structure and tall fibers, such materials are predisposed to accelerated absorption of water, but this impregnation makes the threads of fleece, wool and thermal velor “closed” to absorption, and water rolls down.

The product is available in 300 ml bottles and is equipped with a convenient cap with grooves for fingers and easy unscrewing. The cap also serves as a dispenser.

Pros:

• acts where other means are powerless;
• a thin but durable coating that helps water droplets roll into balls on the surface;
• treated items dry faster after washing due to reduced water absorption;
• suitable for special purpose materials Primaloft, Synchilla, Polar Tec;
• simple dilution in warm water;
• The container will last for a long time thanks to the proportion of 2 lids per 1 item;
• Application time in solution is 5 minutes.

Minuses:

• cost from 600 rubles;
• not suitable for washing machines (the action takes place in the basin).

NIKWAX DOWN PROOF - for insulation materials in clothing

This is the best water-repellent impregnation for winter clothing because it affects not only the top layer of the jacket fabric, but also impregnates the down filling, making it impervious to moisture absorption.

The product is designed for down and feathers, giving these materials thermal insulation properties. Ideal for clothing for skiers, snowboarders, and utility workers.

Pros:

• convenient container with embossed dispenser lid;
• a small amount of water is needed (to cover the product);
• 10 minutes for complete absorption of the product;
• after rinsing, the application process is completed;
• Available in two dosages of 150 and 300 ml, which is convenient depending on the volume of things that need to be processed;
• complete environmental friendliness of the substance.

Minuses:

• cost from 600 rubles;
• Tight spinning is not recommended;
• increased product consumption (150 ml for one item).

How to choose a hydrophobic spray, selection criteria

The main factor that you should pay attention to is the composition of the product. The list of ingredients includes mink oil, as well as seal or goose fat. These natural substances are present in the spray in small concentrations. Their function is to create an invisible water-repellent layer.

How to stretch jeans at home

Impregnation for suede

When choosing impregnation for suede, they are guided by the amount of fluorocarbon resins. If they are replaced with cheap silicone, you should not expect high quality. Instead of repelling liquid, the film will impede air movement. The presence of streamlined names in the composition indicated on the label is considered a significant reason to doubt the quality of the product.

There are many varieties of moisture-repellent protective sprays. The manufacturer usually indicates on the packaging the material for which the impregnation is intended. Among the possible options:

• gore-tex;
• ropes;
• cotton;
• down products;
• gloves;
• boots made of nubuck, suede and leather;
• sleeping bags;
• sport shoes.

Hydrocarbon solvents are most often sold in aerosol packages. Mixtures prepared on the basis of water are poured into containers equipped with a mechanical sprayer. Due to the specific ingredients, processing should be carried out in a room equipped with a well-designed ventilation system.

Experts give preference to products sold in tourist and sports stores. Before purchasing, you should ensure the suitability of the product. The date of manufacture of impregnation for membrane garments is indicated on the packaging. The brand is of great importance. The leaders include Twist, DryCare, Nikwax, Salamander, Collonil, Grangers.

HIGHLY FUNCTIONAL FIRST AND SECOND LAYER

POLARTEC® FLEECE

Polartec ® is an original product made from polyester. This fleece is very comfortable to wear and comes in a variety of thicknesses and textures.

This material is mainly used for clothing that provides extra warmth. It is ideal for wearing under a jacket.

Polartec ® means quality. Discomfort is minimal compared to cheaper fleece materials.

8848 uses 3 different Polartec® materials. THIS:

• Polartec® Thermal Pro
• Polartec® Classic Micro
• Polartec® Power Stretch

PILE FLEECE (WITH PILE)

8848 Altitude uses “pile” fleece with a pile (this type of fabric is also called “highloft”) as the warmest, lightest and most compact type of insulation.

WINDSTOPPER®

Windstopper ® products provide wind protection but are not completely waterproof. It works well in situations that require physical activity due to its excellent breathability. The material is light and has low volumetric weight. Windstopper ® is also suitable as a membrane for soft textiles.

Can I do it myself?

You can make water-repellent impregnation yourself. Many tourists use folk recipes for treating tents and other equipment. The basis is alum and quicklime, as well as copper sulfate. However, folk remedies are not suitable for clothing - you will only ruin the thing.

Water-repellent impregnation is necessary for lovers of outdoor activities. It improves protection from rain, fog, and snow. The fabric does not get wet, and a person can stay outside for as long as he likes without feeling damp. Choose a universal impregnation spray from a trusted manufacturer if you don’t know which product to choose. When applying, open windows and keep can away from eyes and sources of fire. Treat the entire front surface. Pay special attention to folds and seams.

Application area

Fire-resistant impregnations are mainly used to treat the workwear of firefighters, workers, metallurgists and representatives of other hazardous professions. But the scope of application of water-repellent agents is wider, and they are used for processing:

• protective clothing;
• jacket fabric;
• tents;
• backpacks and bags;
• belts;
• furniture;
• tablecloths;
• awnings and canopies for the street;
• raincoats.

Water impregnation not only retains moisture, but is also dirt-repellent. Most light and medium dirt is not a problem for such material, since dirt, consisting of large molecules, is not absorbed into the fibers and is easily cleaned off.