How to Re-Wax a Barbour Jacket
If you're wondering how to re-wax a Barbour Jacket, you're in the right place! A Barbour Wax Jacket isn’t just another coat; it’s a British classic, built to last and designed to handle all kinds of weather. Whether you wear yours on country walks, city strolls, or to the local pub, a Barbour Jacket is a wardrobe staple.
But like any well-loved item, it needs a little care. Over time, the wax coating that keeps your jacket waterproof and looking sharp wears away, leaving the fabric dry and less effective against the unpredictable Great British weather. Luckily, waxing a Barbour Jacket is a simple process you can do at home to restore its durability and keep it looking as good as new.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to re-wax a Barbour Jacket, step by step, so you can keep your favourite Barbour Coat in top condition for years to come.
Why you Should Re-wax your Barbour
A Barbour Wax Jacket is designed to stand up to the elements but over time, the protective wax coating naturally wears away; especially on high-friction areas like the elbows, shoulders, and seams. If you notice your jacket absorbing water instead of repelling it, it’s time for a refresh.
Regularly re-waxing a Barbour Coat helps:
- Restore its waterproof properties
- Prevent fabric from drying out and cracking
- Keep it looking rich and well-maintained
- Extend its lifespan, so it can be passed down for generations
What You Need
Before you start, gather everything you'll need for waxing a Barbour Jacket:
- Wax – Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing. Not all waxes suit every Barbour product. Check the product description, the label inside your jacket, or visit the Barbour website to ensure you're using the correct wax.
- A pan or bowl – for warming the wax
- Hot water – to soften the wax
- A brush – to remove dirt
- A sponge or rag – for applying the wax
How to Re-wax a Barbour Jacket – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Clean and Prep Your Jacket
Start by laying your Barbour Waxed Jacket flat on a clean, dry surface. Use a soft bristle brush to remove any dirt, dust, or dried mud. If your jacket needs a deeper clean, wipe it down with a sponge and cold water. Never use soap or put it in the washing machine, as this will strip away the wax coating.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
While your Barbour Jacket dries, it’s time to prepare the wax. Open your tin of Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing and place it in a bowl or pan of hot (not boiling) water. Leave it for about 20 minutes until the wax softens into a liquid consistency. Keeping the wax warm while you work makes application much easier.
Step 3: Wax Your Barbour Jacket
Now for the fun part—waxing a Barbour! Using a clean sponge, cloth, or rag, work the melted Barbour Wax into the fabric using circular motions. Pay extra attention to seams, creases, and areas that see the most wear. Avoid the inside of the pockets, the lining, and the corduroy collar.
If the wax starts to harden while you're applying it, place the tin back into the hot water to keep it soft.
Step 4: Let It Dry
Once your Barbour Coat is fully waxed, hang it up in a warm, well-ventilated space overnight. Avoid radiators or direct heat, as this can cause the wax to dry unevenly. Be aware that your jacket may feel slightly sticky at first, but that’s normal!
Pro tip: Keep your freshly waxed Barbour Jacket away from leather furniture or car seats until the excess wax fully absorbs!
FAQs
How Often Should You Wax a Barbour Jacket?
Barbour recommends re-waxing your jacket once a year, but if you wear it regularly, especially in harsh weather, you may need to do it more often.
Does the Type of Wax Matter?
Yes! Always use Barbour Wax. Other wax for jackets may not be formulated for waxed cotton and could damage the fabric.
How Long Does It Take to Re-wax a Jacket?
The whole process, including drying time, takes around 24 hours. The actual waxing a Barbour Jacket part? About 30-40 minutes, so perfect for fitting into busy schedules.
How Do You Clean Barbour Wax Jackets?
Stick to a sponge and cold water. Remember, never use a washing machine or dry cleaner as both will strip the wax and ruin the fabric.
Explore Iconic Barbour Jax Jackets at John Norris
If your Barbour waxed jacket needs some care, re-waxing is the best way to maintain its classic look and performance. Need the right supplies? At John Norris, we stock Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing, ensuring your favourite jacket stays in top condition for years to come.
Looking to invest in or upgrade to a new jacket? Explore our selection of iconic wax Barbour Jackets both in-store and online to find the perfect fit for your style and needs.
