How do you care for a wax jacket?

Do you own a (Barbour) wax jacket? Then you’ll know how important proper care is. But how can you tell when your  jacket needs a fresh wax treatment? And what’s the best way to do it? In this article, we cover everything you need to know about re-waxing your jacket!

By Pascal·08-24-2026·Calculate reading time
How do you care for a wax jacket?
With the right care, a wax jacket will last for decades. Discover what makes a wax jacket so special and how to re-wax it step by step.

What exactly is a wax jacket?

A wax jacket is impregnated with a layer of wax, which makes the jacket water-repellent, dirt-repellent and windproof. This is ideal for people who enjoy walking outdoors in nature. Purchasing a Barbour wax jacket is a long-term investment. Some men wear such a jacket for as long as 10 to 20 years!

How do I re-wax my wax jacket?

Are you planning to re-wax your Barbour jacket? A good choice! Take your time and make sure you have cleaned the jacket beforehand. Use a cloth and some mild natural soap to clean the jacket. Check that all dirt and mud traces have been removed. Now you can get started! Watch the video below for a step-by-step explanation:

My wax jacket smells (after re-waxing)

A wax jacket can have a characteristic smell, especially when it is still new or has recently been re-waxed. Some people find the smell unpleasant, while others actually associate it with the ruggedness of the jacket. The smell usually diminishes over time, especially if you wear the jacket regularly and expose it to fresh air. If the smell remains strong or is bothersome, you can air the jacket outside for a few days or hang it in a well-ventilated space.

Can I have my wax jacket rewaxed by someone else?

If you would rather not do it yourself, you can also enlist the help of Barbour. You can hand in your jacket at one of our Suitable branches to have it waxed by Barbour's Repair & Reproofing service in Germany. The jacket is then expertly given a new layer of wax at a fixed rate and subsequently sent back to you. Do bear in mind that you will be without the jacket for a few weeks. You can also turn to Repair & Reproofing if you want to have a part of your Barbour jacket repaired or replaced.

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