CARING FOR YOUR WAXED COTTON PIECES
ken chow
The sun has finally arrived and it looks like blue skies and hot summer days are finally here to stay. Thank you Mother Nature.
Now that your waxed cotton winter outerwear is being swapped for tank tops and T's, your winter waxed cotton outerwear is probably stored at the back of your closet. Before it goes away into hibernation, here are a few little tips that can help you extend the wear of your waxed cotton pieces.
It is good practice to keep your pieces clean and free of bacteria and dirt. There are varying degrees to caring for your pieces.
Degree 1:
If your waxed cotton coat is a newer piece (i.e. you purchased it this past AW season), it is probably in good condition and free from irremovable stains.
If this is the case, you'll be happy to know that waxed cotton likes to sunbathe in the sun. The heat from the sun will serve as a disinfectant to bacteria and dirt accumulated over the AW season. Simply lay your piece flat on a clean surface in the sun (2-3 hours on back, 2-3 hours on front). Follow this sunbathing session with a 2-3 hour session inside at room temperature before hanging it back up in your closet.
Degree 2:
If you've had your piece for more than one season, it might be advisable to do some pressure washing of your coat with the garden hose. Make sure to pay close attention along inner sleeve seams, as this area can accumulate the most dirt because it is the most abrasive. Hang your garment in a well-ventilated room overnight upon cleaning. Proceed with sunbathing session as described in Degree 1, the following day.
Degree 3:
If you notice visible stains, you might need to use a gentle detergent and spot wash the concentrated area with a lint-free cloth. Upon spot washing, pressure-wash the entire coat with the garden hose. Since you are cleaning the shell, it is advisable to flip the coat inside out, and give it spray-over with a liquid detergent and hose off. Proceed with allowing coat to dry overnight in well-ventillated area. Because the coat was exposed to detergent, the final step would be to reproof the entire garment after cleaning.
Reproofing:
Be sure that the garment is clean and dry. Lay it on a flat surface and apply the wax sparingly with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth. Try using a hair dryer to warm the wax on the cloth and on the garment as you apply it. This will make the application easier and more uniform. Spread the wax evenly, working it into the fabric in a circular motion. Do not coat the surface too thickly or it will not be able to absorb it all. Seams and worn areas will require more wax. Wipe off excess wax and hang garment to dry overnight in a well-ventilated area.
The next day, spread out any excess oil not absorbed. Apply more wax to areas that still appear shiny or dry. Proceed with a sunbathing session as described in Degree 1.
We do offer a cleaning and reproofing program. Email info@kranedesign.com to inquire about pricing and the process.