How to Rewax a Waxed Cotton Jacket
Oct 15, 2026
Waxed cotton is brilliant stuff. Wear it enough and it'll pick up a few marks, soften up and start looking like it's actually been somewhere.
But it does need looking after. Eventually the wax finish starts wearing thin, especially around the cuffs, elbows and seams. You'll notice the rain sitting differently on the fabric. Sometimes it starts soaking in where it used to bead off.
That's usually the point to get the wax out.
We know the idea of rubbing warm wax all over your favourite jacket, particularly one you've spent a few hundred quid on, can feel a bit daunting. So we've filmed the process properly. Give it a watch before you get started.
How do you know when your jacket needs rewaxing?
There's no fixed timetable. If your jacket gets worn most days and sees a fair bit of weather, once a year is a decent starting point. A jacket that spends more time on a hook might go longer.
Look for dry-looking patches and areas where the finish has worn away. If rain stops beading on the cotton, that's another clue. Check the cuffs, seams and elbows first. They tend to take the most punishment.
Watch how to rewax your jacket
Here's the full job using our Old Faithful No.01 wax treatment. We show you how to prepare the jacket, work the wax into the cotton and finish it off.
What you'll need
Get yourself a soft brush, a clean sponge or cloth, a bowl of hot water, a hairdryer and something to protect the table. You'll also need a suitable wax treatment. We're using Old Faithful No.01.
Check your jacket's care label first. Different waxed cotton finishes can need different products, so make sure the treatment is suitable for your particular garment.
How to rewax a waxed cotton jacket
1. Give it a brush
Brush away loose dirt and dried mud. If the care instructions allow, wipe any stubborn marks with a damp sponge and cold water. Let the jacket dry completely before you start waxing. Avoid detergents and machine washing unless the maker specifically recommends them.
2. Warm the wax
Stand the open tin in hot water until the wax softens enough to apply. Keep water out of the tin, and don't put it directly on a hob or over a flame.
3. Work it into the cotton
Use the sponge to apply a little wax at a time, working in sections to get an even finish. Give the cuffs, seams and any worn areas some attention. Go gently. You can always add more.
4. Apply a bit of heat
Use a hairdryer on a gentle setting to warm the waxed areas and help the treatment settle into the cotton. Keep it moving rather than concentrating the heat in one spot.
5. Wipe down and leave to dry
Wipe off any obvious excess with a clean cloth, then hang the jacket in a well-ventilated place. Let it dry thoroughly before wearing it or putting it against other clothing.
A few things worth knowing
Will rewaxing change the colour?
It can. Fresh wax often makes the cotton look darker, particularly where the old finish has worn away. Try a small, inconspicuous area first if you're unsure.
Can I use any wax on my jacket?
No. Waxed cotton comes with different finishes, and they don't all want the same treatment. Check your garment's care instructions before you start.
Will rewaxing make my jacket waterproof?
Rewaxing helps restore the fabric's water resistance. It won't fix a hole or a failed seam, and it won't turn a waxed cotton jacket into a technical waterproof shell.
Keep the old stuff going
There's something satisfying about taking a jacket you've worn for years and giving it a bit of attention. The old creases and marks stay. You just get it ready for more weather.
Take care of your sh*t. It'll take care of you.
Old Faithful No.01
Our 250ml annual wax treatment, made to help restore and maintain the water resistance of compatible waxed cotton clothing and kit.
