Reproofing Your Oilskins
Why Reproof Your Oilskin?
Oilskin clothing is an investment - if you look after it properly it can last for years, if not decades. Oilskin is perfect for cold, wet, and windy conditions. The best feature of oilskin is its water-repellent ability, so reproofing it keeps it as waterproof as ever. Over time the water repellent agent in oilskin (the oil or wax) begins to diminish, which is why reproofing is required from time to time. Reproofing not only extends the waterproof life of the oilskin, but also restores it so that it feels like new again.
How to Use Thomas Cook High Country Oilskin Coat Dressing & Styx Mill Reproofer
Remove any dust and dirt from the jacket by hosing the outside of the jacket or vest. Wipe over with a damp cloth and leave to dry. Try not to get the inside wet.
To melt the wax, place the tin in a saucepan and fill with water to come about halfway up the side of the tin. Place the saucepan over heat until the water boils. The wax will slowly turn a golden colour as it melts.
It is best to do this next step outdoors as melted wax is messy. Hang the garment so it is easy to reach the entire surface. With a thick paintbrush, start at the hood or collar and apply the wax to the oilskin, working downwards until the garment is completely covered. Make sure to get under any shoulder and pocket flaps as well. Hang to dry.
To finish the reproofing, heat needs to be applied to set the wax into the fabric and give the garment a smooth finish. Lay the coat or vest on a flat surface and use a hairdryer on a hot setting to carefully work over the garment and set the wax into the oilskin. A rag dipped in very hot water and wiped over the oilskin will also do the trick. If using a rag, refresh it with hot water frequently.
How to Use B.K. Smith Australian Oilskin Reproofer Spray
Remove any dust and dirt from the jacket by hosing the outside of the jacket or vest. Wipe over with a damp cloth and leave to dry. Try not to get the inside wet.
Hang the coat or jacket so it is easy to reach all of the outside surface. We recommend doing this outside so any overspray or drips do not make a mess inside. Hold the spray bottle approximately 25 cm from the oilskin and completely wet the surface. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
B.K. Smith Australian Oilskin Reproofer restores the water repellency of oilskin clothing and accessories. Their Australian-made reproofer comes with an easy-to-use spray applicator that keeps your oilskin products at optimum quality, including coats, clothing, footwear, camping gear and other outdoor equipment. It is non-greasy, antibacterial, and helps prevent mould and mildew.
B.K. Smith's Reproofer has been rigorously tested in laboratory trials, showing a substantial improvement in resistance to water penetration. The results also indicated that regular reproofing is more effective than waiting until the fabric has significantly lost its water resistance.
Use these steps to look after your oilskin and it will last for years or decades to come.