How To Care For Your Waterproof Jacket
Waterproof jacket care and maintenance
At Schöffel Country, we take pride in crafting high-quality waterproof jackets that are made to last. But even the most robust outerwear can suffer if not cared for correctly.
Improper washing, drying or storage can lead to misshapen fabrics, worn-out coatings, and reduced performance, ultimately cutting short the life of your investment. With the right care, however, your waterproof jacket can look better for longer and continue to perform season after season.
Below, we explain how to care for your waterproof coats and jackets, and share essential tips on cleaning, drying and storing your jacket properly.
How to properly wash a waterproof jacket
To keep your waterproof jacket performing at its best, it's essential to wash it correctly. Over time, dirt, sweat and oils can build up on the fabric, reducing both its breathability and water resistance.
The golden rule is to always check the garment’s care label. Almost all our waterproof jackets at Schöffel Country are machine washable and easy to care for, but instructions specific to each jacket – including the wash temperature and details on washing solutions – can be found on the care labels.
Standard detergents or fabrics softeners should never be used with waterproof jackets, as they can damage the waterproof membrane. And all zips and fastenings should be closed before washing.
View our other blog for more on how to care for winter jackets.
How to re-waterproof a jacket
Over time and after many uses, even the best waterproof jackets begin to lose their ability to repel rain as the durable water-repellent (DWR) coating wears off.
If water no longer beads on the surface and instead soaks into the fabric, it’s time to re-waterproof your jacket. First, give it a proper clean using a technical wash; dirt and oils can prevent new treatments from bonding effectively. Once clean and damp, apply a reproofing treatment – either a spray-on for targeted application or a wash-in for overall coverage – following the product instructions carefully. Reproofing your waterproof jacket restores its rain resistance, improves breathability, and ensures it’s ready to perform when the weather turns.
How to store a waterproof jacket
Proper storage is key to maintaining the performance and shape of your waterproof jacket when it’s not in use.
Always store it clean and completely dry, as putting away a damp jacket can lead to mildew, odours, and fabric damage. Avoid folding it tightly for long periods, too, as this can cause creases that weaken the waterproof membrane over time. Instead, hang your jacket on a wide, sturdy hanger in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can degrade technical fabrics and coatings.
If you're packing it away for the season, a breathable garment bag offers protection without trapping moisture. Storing your waterproof jacket correctly helps preserve its shape and extend its lifespan.
The Schöffel Country repairs service
At Schöffel Country, we stand behind the craftsmanship, performance, and longevity of every product we make. With over two centuries of heritage, our commitment to quality, innovation, and technical design continues to shape every collection – helping you enjoy the outdoors with confidence.
To reflect this, we offer a comprehensive warranty programme across our range. Sitting alongside this is our repairs service. If your garment is still inside the specified prodeuct warranty period, out team will assess the level of damage and arrange repair if possible.
Some repairs, such as zips, press studs, and buttons, are carried out in house by our team, while others are outsourced to the very highly regarded Scottish Mountain Gear.
