Top Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Your Oilskin Jacket
An oilskin jacket is a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends significant time outdoors. The waxed cotton material is naturally water-resistant, durable, and breathable, making it an ideal outer layer for activities like farming, hunting, fishing, or exploring the great outdoors. However, properly caring for an oilskin jacket is essential to maintaining its protective qualities and extending its lifespan. Let's break down some of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to oilskin jacket care and maintenance.
Top Mistakes to Avoid in Oilskin Jacket Care & Maintenance
Mistake #1: Machine washing
One of the biggest errors is tossing an oilskin jacket in the washing machine. The waxed cotton is not meant to withstand the heat, agitation, and detergents of a machine wash cycle. Doing so will strip away the protective wax coating, leaving the underlying cotton fabric vulnerable to moisture. Additionally, the wax can gum up the washing machine's parts.
The proper way to clean an oilskin jacket is with a damp sponge or cloth, cold water, and a mild soap if needed. Gently wipe away any dirt or grime on the exterior. For tougher stains, try rubbing a little bit of pure beeswax on the area. Think of it like hand-washing a delicate fabric - be thorough yet gentle.
Mistake #2: Using heat
Another common misstep is using heat when drying or storing an oilskin jacket. Never put it in the dryer, near a radiator or heat vent, or in direct sunlight.High temperatures will melt the wax right off, again removing that critical outer layer that repels moisture and wind. Oilskin dries relatively quickly on its own, so the best approach is to hang it on a sturdy wooden hanger and let it air dry indoors at room temperature. Avoid wire hangers which can distort the shape.
Mistake #3: Storing improperly
How and where you store an oilskin jacket matters just as much as cleaning and drying it correctly. Avoid tossing it in a heap on the floor or stuffing it in the back of a closet. Doing so can lead to permanent creases or a misshapen garment. An oilskin jacket should always be hung up on a robust hanger that can support its weight. Opt for wide wooden or thick plastic hangers, not thin wire ones that will leave marks in the shoulders.
Ideally, store the jacket in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Some people swear by keeping their oilskin in a 100% cotton garment bag to protect it from dust and abrasion when not in use. This allows it to breathe and maintains the integrity of the cotton and wax.
Mistake #4: Neglecting reproofing
Over time and with frequent wear, the wax coating on an oilskin jacket will naturally wear away, especially in high-friction areas like the elbows, cuffs, and front closure. This leaves the cotton fabric underneath susceptible to absorbing water. Oilskin enthusiasts call the process of reapplying wax "reproofing" and it's an essential part of long-term maintenance.
A good rule of thumb is to reproof an oilskin jacket at least once a year, or whenever you notice the fabric starting to look or feel dry. The reproofing process involves working a thin, even layer of special wax dressing all over the exterior of the jacket. This is best done with bare hands to really work the wax into the cotton fibers. After application, hang the jacket up to dry and "cure" for 24-48 hours before wearing it again.
Avoid the mistake of reproofing too often, as this can oversaturate the fabric and lead to a heavy, sticky feeling. Aim for that just-right balance - a jacket that feels slightly waxy to the touch but isn't stiff or greasy.
Mistake #5: Ignoring rips and tears
It's not uncommon for an oilskin jacket to develop small rips or tears, especially if you wear it during strenuous outdoor activities. Some people make the mistake of ignoring these, but it's important to address them promptly before they have a chance to grow larger and cause more damage.
For a temporary fix in the field, you can rub a little beeswax or reproofing wax into the edges of the fabric to seal it up. But when you get home, you'll want to patch it properly from the inside with a product like Tenacious Tape. You can also take your jacket to an outdoor gear repair specialist for professional mending. Many manufacturer warranties even cover repairs for a specified period.
By promptly patching up any damage, you'll maintain the structural integrity and water-repellency of the oilskin fabric much better than if you allow rips and holes to linger untreated. It's a small step that can add years to an oilskin jacket's usable lifespan.
The Takeaway
An oilskin jacket is a rugged, functional piece of outerwear that can provide decades of use if cared for properly. By avoiding these common mistakes - machine washing, heat exposure, careless storage, reproofing neglect, and ignoring damage - you'll be well on your way to maintaining your trusty oilskin for many outdoor adventures to come. With just a little know-how and some regular love and care, this classic jacket will be a staple of your kit for years.
