5 Things to avoid while maintaining your wax jacket

I'm going to hazard a guess that you've landed on this page because you either own a wax jacket or you're seriously considering investing in one. And whilst I'm making assumptions, here's my second: you're absolutely intent on looking after it properly so that one day, your grandchildren can stomp through autumn puddles wearing the very same jacket.

With that in mind, I reckon it's only fair that I give you a proper heads-up about some crucial things to avoid with maintaining your wax jacket, because trust me, these mistakes can spell disaster for your beloved jacket.

1. Never, ever chuck your wax jacket in the washing machine

This is the cardinal sin, really. The hot water will dissolve the protective wax coating, partially if you're lucky, completely if you're not, which means you can wave goodbye to all those brilliant water-repellent qualities. What's more, the cotton fabric itself can suffer damage from all that moisture, and that's something you absolutely want to avoid. Your jacket deserves better than a spin cycle, I promise you. If you're after tips on how to properly clean your jacket, you'll want to read this article for the full lowdown.

2. Keep it away from high temperatures

Here's the thing about wax: it melts. And when it melts, it migrates, which means certain areas of your jacket suddenly lose their protection and might start letting water through. So after you've been tramping through the woods all day, hang your jacket on a sturdy hanger well away from radiators, and absolutely miles away from open flames. If the sun decides to make a late afternoon appearance, don't be tempted to hang it in direct sunlight either. Your jacket's probably quite dark in colour, which means it'll absorb more heat. Plus, you don't want it fading, do you? Unless, of course, you're deliberately trying to achieve that lovely weathered patina look at breakneck speed.

3. Don't fold it when you pack it away for summer

When you fold your jacket, and particularly if you do it repeatedly, you risk creating permanent creases that can lead to extra wear and tear in those specific spots. Instead, hang it up on a proper hanger in your well-ventilated wardrobe and whisper sweet nothings to it occasionally. Your jacket will thank you for it.

4. Steer clear of soap and chemicals

This might seem rather obvious, but I'm mentioning it anyway because it's genuinely important. Wax is surprisingly vulnerable stuff. Any form of soap or cleaning products will damage the wax coating, and in the worst-case scenario, leave you with stubborn stains that simply won't budge. So give all that a wide berth, won't you?

5. Don't skip the maintenance

The lifespan of your gorgeous wax jacket rests entirely in your hands. When the fabric starts looking a bit dry and the water no longer beads up nicely on the surface, it's time for a fresh coat of wax – actually, it's time just before that point, if we're being honest. The wax doesn't just keep things waterproof; it also protects against wear in those high-friction areas like elbows, cuffs, and shoulders. It keeps everything supple and in tip-top condition. Neglect this, and you're shortchanging both yourself and your jacket.