Applying DWR to non wet proofs

Mike M

07/01/2007 at 09:38

many apologies if this has been discussed before, but can a DWR finish be applied to non waterproof type clothing.
I have several pairs of polycotten trousers (craghoppers kiwi) which I think are great for general walking, but not much use at keeping the water out. Now, I hate wearing waterproof overtrousers and baulk somewhat at paying £90+ for a pair of paramos or similar so was thnking of using one of those wash in DWR products on them. Would this work? Obviously I realise it won't be as good as the "real thing", but even if just keeps most of the rain out it'd be a bonus.

DandyMountainMan

07/01/2007 at 10:07

Use the Nikwax cotton proof. Bare in mind that washing with ordinary detergent will strip this proofing off, so you will subsequently need to use soap flakes, Tech wash or the like.

captain paranoia

08/01/2007 at 13:02

Well, strictly, detergent won't strip the DWR, but it will negate its effect. But yes, you can add DWR to any fabric that will take the treatment. If it's already been detergent washed, give it a couple of soap washes to remove detergent residue before applying the DWR treatment.

Don't expect waterproof performance, though; it will only be water resistant, and, depending on how open the weave is, raindrops may still force their way into the fabric.

"Cunning" Duncan

08/01/2007 at 13:37

I Nikwaxed my fabric brief-case, and some trainers. No idea if it makes a difference, though.

DandyMountainMan

08/01/2007 at 14:36

So how does the detergent affect the DWR then? I'd got in into my head it washed the DWR out much like it would ordinary dirt?

DWR'ing my Kiwis didn't make them waterproof, but it certainly helped move the point at which you would want to put on overtrousers. Well worth a punt I'd say.

Mike M, you might like to look at the Paramo Fuera] trousers, which are rather cheaper. Not waterproof either, but pretty good at repelling modest rain and cutting out the wind. Light enough to wear in summer, unlike the Cascadas. Sadly without all those lovely pockets the Kiwi's have.

peewit

08/01/2007 at 14:43

Anyone tried this with Craghoppers Kiwi lined trousers?

Mike M

08/01/2007 at 17:41

thanks all, think I'll give it a try (nowt to lose and all that). Now re this soap thing, mrs m says you can't use soap in a washing machine as it lathers too much, is this correct?

Ray !!!!!

08/01/2007 at 17:50

i use grannies snowflakes in my machine all the time and its ok.dont go mad though as foam will leak out.2 egg cup amounts will be ok.was ok for me anyway.i used about 4 the first time i did it and some foam did leak out but not that much.

Parky Again

08/01/2007 at 17:55

dissolve the soapflakes in hot water first to avoid any "snotty" bits on your clothes.

kiwi lined trousers are ok to nikwax. the lining feels a bit strange around the knees for a while until it rubs off. i haven't re-proofed them as i think the lining provides a reasonable barrier betwwen you and the rain anyway.

captain paranoia

08/01/2007 at 19:17

DandyMM, traces of detergent bind to the fabric, and the two effects 'fight' each other; the DWR tries to increase surface tension, so preventing water absorption, but the detergent tries to reduce the surface tension, encouraging absorption. Result: a 1:1 draw. Or thereabouts.

The detergent residues can usually be removed by a soap wash.

Note that Paramo suggest a dry clean to strip Nikwax from their items, it the event that you want to 'start from scratch' with your proofing.

I've used Nikwax on a number of non-waterproof items, such as trousers, windshirts, etc. and find it works pretty well.

DandyMountainMan

08/01/2007 at 21:17

Aha! I see, thanks.

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