Every wax jacket has a story.
We help it continue.
Traditional craftsmanship.
Professional care for Barbour and other premium wax jackets.
Our motivation
In today's throwaway society, we believe quality should be preserved, not replaced. Every jacket we restore contributes to a more sustainable world and allows its story to continue.
How to care for a wax jacket: The complete guide to cleaning, reproofing and storing Your Wax Jacket
Professional, traditional wax jacket care and restoration by Waxjassen Onderhoud
A well-cared-for wax jacket can last for decades
A quality wax jacket is not a garment you replace after just a few seasons. Renowned brands such as Barbour, Belstaff, Dubarry and other makers of waxed cotton jackets have built their reputation on durability, craftsmanship and timeless style. With the right care, a wax jacket can last for decades, developing more character with every year of wear.
In our workshop, however, we regularly receive jackets that have suffered unnecessary damage. Washing a wax jacket in a washing machine, using household detergents or applying the wrong treatment can strip away the protective wax finish and, in some cases, cause permanent damage to the fabric.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain how to care for your wax jacket properly, helping you keep it in excellent condition for years to come. We'll also show you when professional cleaning, reproofing or repairs are the best option to preserve its appearance, performance and longevity.
Why does a wax jacket need maintenance?
A traditional wax jacket is made from durable waxed cotton, treated with a protective wax finish. This finish is what gives the jacket its unique combination of practicality and timeless character. It provides:
- excellent protection against rain;
- reliable resistance to wind;
- the distinctive appearance that wax jackets are known for;
- long-lasting protection for the cotton fabric
Over time, however, every wax jacket is exposed to everyday wear and the elements. Regular use gradually affects the protective wax finish through:
- rain and moisture;
- sunlight and UV exposure;
- dirt and dust;
- friction from backpacks;
- seat belts and shoulder straps;
- natural body heat.
As a result, the wax coating slowly wears away. This is a completely natural part of owning and enjoying a wax jacket.
How often should a wax jacket be maintained?
How do you know when your wax jacket needs maintenance?
Can a wax jacket be washed in a washing machine?
How do you clean a wax jacket?
When should a wax jacket be reproofed?
Don't overlook minor repairs
How should you store a wax jacket?
How should you store a wax jacket?
More frequently asked questions
Not sure about the condition of your wax jacket?
Send your wax jacket to our workshop for a professional assessment. We'll carefully inspect your jacket and advise you on any maintenance or repairs it may need, helping you enjoy it for many years to come.
Do you have a question?
We're happy to help. Before getting in touch, please take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions page. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, simply complete the form below and we'll respond as quickly as possible, usually within one working day.
What Our Customers Say
"I'm extremely impressed with the service and customer care provided by Peter. He took the time to answer all my questions thoroughly and offered honest, professional advice throughout the process.
My wax jacket was professionally cleaned, rewaxed and finished with a dry-look treatment. It now looks almost as good as new and has already proved its worth during a walk with the dog in heavy rain. Where I would normally start to feel damp after a while, I stayed completely dry.
Thanks to the expert craftsmanship of Peter and his team, my jacket is ready for many more years of use. Peter also recommended having the jacket professionally maintained on a regular basis to achieve the best results and help prevent wear to the cotton fabric. Highly recommended!"
Ruud Frenzel
"Peter has given my old Barbour Border jacket a whole new lease of life. He even managed to completely remove the lingering smell of cigarette smoke, something I never thought would be possible.
The service was outstanding from start to finish, including shipping my jacket back to France. If you're looking for a specialist to professionally clean, repair or rewax your wax jacket, I couldn't recommend them more highly."
Laurens de Roon
"Just before autumn 2024, I brought in quite a collection of jackets, Barbour jackets used by hunters, including one that was over 20 years old. They no longer smelled fresh, some were damaged and all of them needed reproofing.
Peter treated every single jacket with true professionalism. They were cleaned, repaired and rewaxed with great care. When I got them back, they looked as though they had just come out of the shop.
Absolutely delighted with the result. Cherish this craftsman!"
H Wijgerse
"A little while ago, I noticed that my Barbour wax jacket had started to develop a musty smell and the wax finish had begun to dry out due to my own lack of maintenance. I was actually considering replacing it until I came across Waxjassen Onderhoud.
After reading Peter's website, I decided to get in touch for some advice. I sent a message through the website and, to my surprise, received a reply the very same day inviting me to visit his workshop. Peter took the time to explain the process and the options for my jacket, leaving me with complete confidence in his expertise.
When I collected my jacket, I could hardly believe it was the same one. It had been beautifully rewaxed and looked immaculate. I've already received several compliments from colleagues about my 'new' jacket, even though I've owned it for years!
Peter is a true craftsman who clearly takes great pride in his work. As a lovely finishing touch, he even included a beautiful lapel pin with my jacket. Highly recommended!"
Benthe Braakman
"I never thought my 30-year-old Barbour jacket could look this good again. It was restored with exceptional care and craftsmanship. I couldn't be happier with the result. Highly recommended!"
William Uricchio
"Fantastic service! My Barbour jacket, after more than 25 years of wear, was looking rather tired. Thanks to Peter's expert craftsmanship, it now looks as good as new. Professional, efficient and reasonably priced. If I could give six stars, I would!"