How to Re-Wax a Barbour Jacket: Step-by-Step Guide

Barbour waxed jackets are iconic pieces of countrywear—known for their rugged style, weather resistance, and longevity. But to keep your Barbour looking its best and performing well season after season, it’s essential to re-wax it regularly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to re-wax your Barbour jacket at home, using Barbour Wax Thornproof Dressing.

Why Re-Wax Your Barbour Jacket?

Barbour waxed jackets are crafted from waxed cotton, offering excellent protection from wind and rain. Over time, the wax coating wears off—especially in areas like the shoulders, elbows, and seams. Re-waxing restores this layer, extending the life of your jacket and keeping it water-resistant.

Barbour recommends re-waxing your jacket once a year, depending on wear.

What You'll Need:

Barbour Wax Thornproof Dressing
A soft cloth or sponge
A bowl of hot water
A hairdryer (optional)
An old towel or newspaper to protect your surface

Step-by-Step: How to Re-Wax a Barbour Jacket

1. Clean Your Jacket

Before re-waxing, clean your jacket with cold water and a sponge to remove dirt and debris. Do not use hot water, detergents, or machine washing—this can damage the fabric and remove the remaining wax.

Let it dry naturally at room temperature.

2. Soften the Wax

Place the tin of Barbour Wax Thornproof Dressing in a bowl of hot water for about 20 minutes. This softens the wax, making it easier to apply. The consistency should be smooth and easy to spread.

3. Apply the Wax

Using a soft cloth or sponge, apply the wax in small sections. Work the wax into the fabric with circular motions, paying extra attention to seams, creases, and worn areas.

Avoid overloading the fabric—too much wax can make the jacket feel sticky.

4. Even Out the Wax

Once applied, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting to melt the wax into the jacket for a smoother finish. This helps achieve an even coating and improves the water-repellent effect.

5. Let It Cure

Hang your jacket in a warm, dry place overnight to allow the wax to set and absorb. Avoid direct heat or sunlight.

6. Buff if Needed

If the jacket feels tacky, you can gently buff it with a clean cloth to remove any excess wax and smooth the finish.

Watch the Re-Waxing Process

For a visual guide, watch Barbour’s official re-waxing video:
🎥 How to Re-Wax Your Barbour Jacket

When to Re-Wax or Repair

Annual Re-Waxing: Once a year for regular wear.
Spot Repairs: Touch up high-wear areas as needed.
Professional Re-Waxing: Barbour offers a re-waxing and repair service if you prefer expert care.

Final Thoughts

Re-waxing your Barbour jacket is a simple but essential part of its care. With just a bit of time and the right tools, you can keep your jacket looking sharp and performing well for decades. It’s part of what makes owning a Barbour such a timeless investment in country style.

Shop Country Clothing Online

Looking for Barbour jackets or re-waxing supplies? Browse our full collection of country clothing and outdoor essentials at
👉 Allweathers.co.uk