How to Clean a Barbour Wax Jacket: A Complete Guide

Barbour wax jackets are a popular choice for outdoor wear due to their durable waxed cotton fabric and ability to withstand various weather conditions. However, over time, dirt and grime can build up on the jacket, making it look worn and discoloured. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly clean and maintain your Barbour wax jacket to keep it looking like new.

How to Care for a Barbour Wax Jacket

Caring for a Barbour wax jacket is relatively simple, but it does require some specific steps to ensure the wax jacket is properly cleaned and maintained. Here is a general guide on how to care for your Barbour wax jacket :

1. Brush off any loose dirt or debris from the jacket using a soft-bristled brush or lint roller.
2. Spot clean any stains using a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents as they can damage the wax coating on the jacket.
3. If the jacket needs a more thorough cleaning, it can be hand washed or dry cleaned. However, it’s recommended to take it to a professional cleaner who has experience with waxed cotton fabrics.
4. Hang the jacket to dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
5. To re-wax the jacket, use a Barbour wax dressing or a wax-specific product that is suitable for use on cotton fabrics. Follow the instructions on the product for the best results or take a look at our Barbour re-waxing guide .
6. Store the jacket in a cool, dry place, preferably in a breathable garment bag to prevent mildew.

Can you wash a Barbour Wax Jacket?

Yes, it is possible to wash a Barbour wax jacket, but it should be done carefully to avoid damaging the wax coating on the jacket. It is recommended to take the jacket to a professional cleaner who has experience with waxed cotton fabrics. If you do wish to wash it at home, hand washing the jacket in cold water with a mild detergent is the best method. Avoid using a washing machine or hot water, as they can damage the wax coating.

Once washed, rinse the jacket thoroughly in cold water to remove all soap residue and hang to dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources. After it’s dry, apply a coat of Barbour wax dressing or a wax-specific product that is suitable for use on cotton fabrics to restore the jacket’s water-resistant properties.

How to Clean Barbour Wax Jacket Lining

To clean the lining of a Barbour wax jacket, you can follow these steps:

1. Start by brushing off any loose dirt or debris from the lining using a soft-bristled brush or lint roller.
2. Spot clean any stains using a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents as they can damage the fabric of the lining. Gently rub the stain with a cloth and soap, then pat dry with a clean cloth.
3. If the lining is removable, take it out of the jacket and wash it separately. If the lining is not removable, use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the lining with a mixture of mild detergent and cold water.
4. Rinse the lining thoroughly in cold water to remove all soap residue.
5. Hang the lining to dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not wring or twist the lining, instead gently press out the excess water.

How to Get Creases Out of a Barbour Wax Jacket

Here are a few ways to get creases out of a Barbour wax jacket:

1. Hang the jacket on a hanger and steam the creased areas using a steamer or a hot shower. The heat and steam will help to soften the wax and relax the creases.
2. Use a warm iron on a low heat setting. Place a cloth, such as a cotton towel, over the creased area and gently press with the iron. Avoid using high heat as it can melt the wax and damage the jacket.
3. Place the jacket in a warm, sunny spot. The heat from the sun can help to soften the wax and relax the creases.
4. If the creases are still present after trying the above methods, you can try using a hair dryer on a low heat setting to heat and soften the wax, then gently smooth out the creases with your hands.
5. If the creases are too deep, a professional cleaner who has experience with waxed cotton fabrics may be able to remove them.

How to Get Smoke Smell Out of Barbour Jacket

Here are a few ways to remove smoke smell from a Barbour jacket:

1. Air out the jacket. Leave the jacket outside in a well-ventilated area for a few hours, or hang it in a room with an open window. The fresh air will help to dissipate the smoke smell.
2. Use odour neutralising products. Sprinkle baking soda or charcoal on the jacket, leave it for a few hours, then shake off and brush off the products. Alternatively, you can use odour neutralising sprays or sachets specifically designed for clothes.
3. Wash the jacket. If the smell persists, you can try washing the jacket in cold water with a mild detergent and adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Avoid using hot water as it may set in the smell.
4. Dry the jacket in the sun. Hang the jacket in a sunny spot to dry, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can help to neutralise odours.
5. Have it professionally cleaned. If the above methods do not work, you can take the jacket to a professional cleaner who has experience with removing odours from fabrics.

How to Clean a Mouldy Barbour Jacket

Cleaning a mouldy Barbour jacket can be challenging, as mould can be difficult to remove and can damage the fabric of the jacket. Here are some steps to help remove mould from a Barbour jacket:

1. Brush off any loose mould with a soft-bristled brush or lint roller.
2. Mix a solution of 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the affected areas of the jacket, making sure to saturate the fabric thoroughly.
3. Gently scrub the mouldy areas with a soft brush or sponge. Be sure to reach all the crevices and seams.
4. Rinse the jacket thoroughly with cold water to remove all the vinegar and mould.
5. Hang the jacket to dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not wring or twist the jacket, instead gently press out the excess water.
6. Once the jacket is dry, treat it with a mould inhibitor solution, such as a solution of tea tree oil and water or a commercially available mould inhibitor solution.
7. Store the jacket in a cool, dry place, preferably in a breathable garment bag to prevent mildew.

Do I Need a Barbour Wax Care Kit?

A Barbour wax care kit is a set of products specifically designed to clean, maintain and restore the wax coating on a Barbour wax jacket. It typically includes a wax dressing, a sponge or brush, and detailed instructions on how to use the products. The wax dressing is a product that is applied to the jacket to restore the jacket’s water-resistant properties and revive the jacket’s original colour. The sponge or brush is used to apply the wax dressing evenly to the jacket. Using a Barbour wax care kit is an effective way to keep a Barbour wax jacket in top condition and prolong its life.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Barbour wax jacket will be properly cleaned and maintained, keeping it in top condition for many years to come. Remember that if your jacket is heavily affected by mould, it may be best to replace it. And it’s also important to keep in mind that some creases, odours and stains may not completely disappear. However, a professional cleaner who has experience with waxed cotton fabrics may be able to remove them.

The Barbour Wax Jacket is a Timeless Classic

A Barbour wax jacket is a timeless and durable piece of clothing that requires proper care and maintenance to keep it looking like new. From cleaning and restoring the wax coating to removing creases, smoke smell and mildew, a Barbour wax jacket care kit, and following the proper steps, will ensure that your jacket is properly cleaned and maintained. Remember that it’s important to take the jacket to a professional cleaner if the jacket is heavily affected by the mould, stains or odours, or if you are not sure on how to proceed. By following these steps, you can ensure that your Barbour wax jacket will be a reliable and stylish companion for many years to come.

Take a look at all of our Barbour Care Kits.