All Your Nikwax Questions Answered

As one of the leading providers of cleaning and reproofing products for outdoor gear, Nikwax know a thing or two about looking after your gear. Set up by Nick Brown, a keen walker and outdoor enthusiast, over 40 years ago, they've perfected their products to keep your outdoor gear performing at its best for longer.

With everything from boot cleaning and reproofing to garment care and specialist down wash, they have products designed for your every need. But what should you be using and when? Below we answer some of your burning question about using Nikwax. 

Nikwax is a leading British brand specialising in waterproof wash liquid and clothing waterproofing spray solutions. Founded by Nikwax Limited, the company has become synonymous with reliable rain gear waterproofing and fabric care for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to maintain a Nikwax analogy jacket, a classic Nikwax coat, or simply want to keep your favourite Nikwax jacket in top condition, Nikwax products are formulated to protect and prolong the life of your gear.

Nikwax waterproofing treatments use advanced elastomer technology to coat fibres and leather with a flexible, water-repellent layer. This keeps your gear dry, breathable, and ready for whatever the British weather throws at you.

Nikwax waterproofing products are engineered to bond with fabric and leather fibres, creating a network of elastic, water-repellent molecules. Unlike traditional waxes or harsh chemicals, Nikwax waterproofing wax for leather and fabric treatments are water-based, environmentally friendly, and non-flammable.

When you apply Nikwax waterproof wash or waterproof spray Nikwax, the active ingredients form a durable, breathable barrier. This means water beads up and rolls off, while moisture vapour from your body can still escape—keeping you dry and comfortable inside and out.

With a range of products from Nikwax Limited, it’s important to pick the right one for your needs:

• Nikwax Tech Wash: The best waterproof washing detergent for cleaning and reviving water-repellent fabrics. Use Tech Wash Nikwax to remove dirt and restore breathability before re-proofing.
• Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In: The best wash-in waterproofing for coats and jackets. This Nikwax wash in waterproofing product gives an even coating to all fibres, zips, and threads.
• Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On: A waterproof jacket spray for targeted protection. Perfect for touch-ups and hard-to-reach areas.
• Nikwax Waterproofer: For garment waterproofing and leather care, ensuring your gear stays protected in all conditions.

Choosing between Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In and Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On can be confusing, but understanding the key differences will help you get the best results for your outdoor gear.

Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In is designed for use in your washing machine. By immersing your garment in a wash-in treatment, you ensure a complete and even coating of waterproofing to all fibres, zips, threads, and hard-to-reach areas like behind zips and pocket flaps. This method is ideal for garments without wicking linings, as it guarantees you won’t miss any part, providing comprehensive waterproofing all over your jacket or trousers.

Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On, on the other hand, is applied directly to the outside of your garment after washing. This waterproof spray allows you to target specific areas that may need extra protection, such as under heavy straps or on frequently exposed panels. It’s also perfect for quick touch-ups or when you’re on the go, as you don’t need a washing machine. Spray-On is especially useful for garments with wicking linings, as it avoids saturating the lining and maintains the garment’s breathability.

How to use Nikwax Tech Wash is one of the most common questions we receive. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check the Care Label: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Prepare Your Machine: Remove any detergent residue and non-washable parts from your garment.
3. Add Tech Wash: Use the recommended amount of tech wash for your machine type and water hardness. For top-loading machines, add 150ml for 1–3 garments or 250ml for 4–6 garments. For front-loading machines, use 100ml for up to 2 garments.
4. Wash as Normal: Set your machine to a gentle, warm cycle (30°C is ideal).
5. Air Dry or Tumble Dry: Follow the care label for drying instructions.

Tech Wash Nikwax is non-detergent, biodegradable, and safe for all waterproof, windproof, and fleece clothing—including Gore-Tex, Windstopper, and Nikwax analogy jacket fabrics.

Whether you choose Nikwax direct wash in or waterproof spray Nikwax, the application process is straightforward:

• Wash-In Waterproofing: Add Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In to your washing machine after cleaning with tech wash. This ensures a complete, even coating.
• Spray-On Waterproofing: After washing, apply Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On to the outside of your garment. Hold the bottle 15cm away and spray evenly. Wait 2 minutes, then remove excess with a damp cloth. Air dry or tumble dry on low if the label allows.

Nikwax waterproofing products do not require heat to activate, making them quick and easy to use.

• Always clean your gear first with tech wash before re-proofing.
• Never use regular detergent on waterproof fabrics.
• Check your water hardness and adjust the amount of tech wash or waterproof wash accordingly.
• Re-proof your gear at least once a year or when water stops beading on the surface.
• Store Nikwax products in a cool, dry place—do not allow them to freeze.

With this guide, you’re ready to tackle any Nikwax question and keep your outdoor gear performing at its best. Whether you’re maintaining a Nikwax analogy jacket, a classic Nikwax coat, or just want to ensure your rain gear waterproofing is up to scratch, Nikwax Limited has you covered.

When it comes to keeping dry in the great outdoors, GORE-TEX® is one of the most trusted names in waterproof, breathable technology—and Nikwax is the go-to choice for maintaining and revitalising these high-performance fabrics. Understanding how these two work together can help you get the most from your rain gear waterproofing and ensure your gear stays reliable, season after season.

GORE-TEX® jackets and trousers are engineered with a unique membrane that allows sweat vapour to escape while keeping rain out. However, the outer fabric of GORE-TEX® garments relies on a factory-applied Durable Water Repellency (DWR) coating to keep water beading off the surface. Over time, dirt, oils, and general wear can degrade this DWR, causing the fabric to absorb water and reducing breathability—sometimes by up to 70%. When this happens, you may notice your jacket feeling clammy or heavy, even though the GORE-TEX® membrane itself is still waterproof.

Nikwax products are specifically designed to care for technical fabrics like GORE-TEX®, eVent®, and other waterproof, breathable materials. Here’s how Nikwax helps maintain and restore your GORE-TEX® gear:

• Nikwax Tech Wash: This waterproof washing detergent is formulated to clean technical fabrics without damaging the DWR or leaving behind residues. Regular use of tech wash Nikwax removes dirt and oils that can clog the fabric, helping to restore water repellency and breathability.
• Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In or Spray-On: When your GORE-TEX® jacket starts to lose its water repellency, Nikwax waterproofing treatments like TX.Direct can be used to re-proof the fabric. These wash-in and spray-on solutions add a new layer of DWR, reviving performance and keeping you dry and comfortable.
• No Heat Required: Unlike some other waterproofing spray brands, Nikwax treatments do not require heat to activate. This makes them safer and more convenient for home use, and means you can simply air dry your gear after treatment.