Reproofing Your Oilskins

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 it's water-repellent ability, so reproofing it ensures that it will stay as water-proof 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 get at the entire surface. With a thick paintbrush, start at the hood or collar and apply the wax to the oilskin, working downwards to the bottom until it is covered completely. Ensure to get under any shoulder and pocket flaps as well. Hang to dry.

To finish off the reproofing, heat will need to be applied to set the wax into the fabric and give the garment a smooth, shiny 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 washed over the oilskin will also do the trick. If using a rag, ensure to 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 that any overspray or drips don't make a mess inside! Hold the spray bottle 25cm 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 ensures all your oilskin products remain at optimum quality whether they're coats and clothing or footwear, camping, and outdoor gear. It's non-greasy, antibacterial, and prevents mould and mildew.

B.K. Smith's Reproofer has been rigorously tested in a series of laboratory trials which show a substantial improvement in the resistance of water penetration to oilskin. The results also indicated that it is more effective to reproof fabric regularly rather than waiting for it to have a severely reduced resistance to water penetration before reproofing.

Use these steps to look after your oilskin and it will last for years or decades to come. 

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