Worried about your dirty Barbour jacket? Don’t be! This famous British coat can last many years – maybe even longer than you’d expect – if you take good care of it. Whether it’s been sitting unused and getting dusty, or it’s showing signs of wear from all your outdoor fun, there are simple ways to clean it without causing damage.
According to Steve Buck, managing director of Barbour, “With proper care and attention, a Barbour wax jacket can last for many years, becoming a trusted companion that only gets better with age.”
Let’s learn how to keep your jacket looking great and lasting longer, while staying away from cleaning mistakes that could harm it. Think of it as giving your faithful outdoor friend the care it deserves.
Timeless British Outerwear
Three generations of country pursuits, rainy city commutes, and royal outings have established Barbour jackets as perhaps the ultimate symbol of timeless British outerwear.
With their durable waxed cotton designs (available in 6oz and 8oz weights) and practical features like corduroy collars and reinforced seams, we’re talking about garments designed for both practicality and elegance.
Sylkoil variants particularly exemplify that all-weather versatility we’ve come to expect from this heritage brand. To maintain their quality, regular cleaning and conditioning is essential for preserving the durability and appearance of these classic jackets.
Let’s talk about proper cleaning techniques for your Barbour jacket.
We’ll cover what you should and shouldn’t do when maintaining these classic waxed jackets, walking through the step-by-step process that preserves their unique weatherproofing qualities. Proper care ensures the preservation of unique character and value, making it essential for all Barbour owners. I think most Barbour owners don’t realize how simple it can be to care for these investment pieces at home, and with the right approach, your jacket will continue looking great for years to come.
Things to Do When Cleaning a Barbour Jacket
Properly cleaning a Barbour jacket requires attention to detail to maintain its distinctive waxed cotton finish and extend its longevity.
The process involves gentle handling and specific techniques that preserve the jacket’s waterproof qualities while effectively removing dirt and odors.
- Brush off loose dirt – Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove surface debris before any wet cleaning begins.
- Clean with cold water – Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth using cold water only, turning collars and sleeves for complete coverage.
- Avoid scrubbing motions – Use gentle wiping motions to protect the wax coating from damage.
- Spot treat with white vinegar – Apply to stains with a damp cloth, limiting treatment to under ten minutes.
- Address the inner lining – Dampen a cloth with white vinegar to neutralize odors or remove mildew from the interior.
- Rinse treated areas – Follow vinegar treatments by wiping with a clean, damp cloth to remove residue.
- Dry properly – Hang the jacket in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Turn out pockets and collars – Guarantee even drying throughout all areas of the jacket.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning a Barbour Jacket
Caring for your Barbour wax jacket properly is essential to maintain its signature weatherproofing and extend its lifespan.
Improper cleaning methods can permanently damage your investment and compromise the jacket’s functionality, which is why understanding what to avoid is just as important as knowing the correct cleaning techniques.
- Soap and detergents: These strip away the protective wax coating that gives your Barbour jacket its water-resistant properties, leaving the fabric vulnerable to moisture.
- Machine washing: This aggressive cleaning method removes the essential waterproofing layer and can damage the fabric structure, potentially ruining your jacket permanently.
- Hot water: Using warm or hot water melts the wax coating unevenly and can cause it to penetrate deeper into the fabric rather than remaining on the surface where it provides protection.
- Heat sources and tumble drying: Excessive heat can melt and redistribute the wax coating improperly, potentially creating permanent creases or damaging the fabric’s integrity.
- Dry cleaning: The harsh chemicals used in dry cleaning processes break down the wax coating and can deteriorate the fabric, making this method completely unsuitable for waxed jackets.
Steps
Properly cleaning your Barbour jacket is essential to maintain its distinctive waxed finish and extend its lifespan.
The key to successful cleaning lies in using gentle techniques that preserve the wax coating while effectively removing dirt and odors.
Unlike regular clothing, Barbour jackets require special care to avoid damaging their water-resistant properties, which means avoiding harsh detergents, hot water, and machine washing that would strip away the protective wax layer.
Step 1: Lay the jacket flat and use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove loose dirt and debris from the exterior.
Step 2: Dampen a cloth or sponge with cold water and wipe down the exterior, being careful to use gentle motions without scrubbing.
Step 3: Turn up the collar and cuffs to clean these areas thoroughly, guaranteeing no dirt remains in the folds.
Step 4: For the interior lining, dampen a cloth with white vinegar and gently wipe to clean and neutralize odors.
Step 5: Allow the vinegar to work for no more than ten minutes, then wipe down with a clean damp cloth.
Step 6: Turn out all pockets and collars to guarantee they dry properly.
Step 7: Hang the jacket in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Step 8: Allow the jacket to dry completely, which may take several hours or overnight.
Step 9: Inspect for any remaining stains and address as needed while continuing to avoid soap, detergents, and hot water.
Final Thoughts
While owning a Barbour jacket represents a significant investment in quality outerwear, the care it requires shouldn’t feel overwhelming.
With regular maintenance and proper cleaning techniques, your jacket can last for decades—perhaps even become a family heirloom.
Taking proper care of your Barbour jacket guarantees it remains a reliable companion for decades.
Remember that gentle hand cleaning with cold water, avoiding soaps and detergents, and careful attention to problem areas like collars and sleeves will maintain the jacket’s character without compromising its waterproof qualities.
The annual reproofing ritual using Thornproof dressing isn’t just maintenance—it’s an investment in your jacket’s longevity.
By following these time-tested methods rather than resorting to modern shortcuts like machine washing or dry cleaning, you’re preserving both the function and heritage of this classic garment.
With minimal effort and the right approach, your Barbour can weather countless storms alongside you.
Embrace these traditional care techniques, and your waxed jacket will continue to develop a unique patina that tells the story of your adventures while providing reliable protection for years to come.
