Claybourn Oilskin Garment Care

Our oilskin garments are built for durability, function, and protection from the elements. With the right care, your Claybourn coat or jacket will last for many years. Please follow the guidelines below to help prolong its life and performance.

Cleaning

  • Always follow the care label instructions attached to your garment.
  • Do not wash with detergent or hot water — this will remove the oil and wax, which are essential to the waterproofing.
  • For light dirt, simply brush off or sponge down with cold water.
  • For heavy soiling, hand wash gently in cold water.
  • If a complete clean is required, use recommended oilskin detergent. Please note that soap or detergent will strip the waterproofing qualities, so the garment will need reproofing afterwards.

After washing:

  • Rinse thoroughly (hanging on a clothesline and hosing down is ideal).
  • Hang in a well-ventilated area until fully dry.
  • Do not dry with radiators, naked flame, or artificial heat.
  • Once completely dry, reproof with Claybourn Reproofer Wax.
  • Do not machine wash, dry clean, starch, or iron.

Removing Mould:

  • Brush off as much surface mould as possible.
  • Sponge diluted vinegar onto affected areas.
  • Hand wash in lukewarm water with oilskin detergent.
  • For shearling-lined garments, use a wool detergent.
  • Rinse thoroughly, hang on a strong coat hanger, and dry in a shaded, airy location.
  • Hose off any excess soap and allow time to fully air out — this may take a while to remove the musky smell.
  • Once clean, reproof your garment, as washing will have removed some of the protective oils.
  • For garments heavily affected by mould, wash the entire coat in a diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 20 parts water) to kill mould throughout.

Important: Always store oilskin garments in a dry, ventilated space. Never leave in
cupboards or plastic bags for long periods, as this can cause mould.

Reproofing

With wear, the oil and wax finish will dry out. Regular checks will ensure longevity and protection. Claybourn offers a Reproofer Wax designed specifically for our oilskin fabrics.

Claybourn Reproofer Wax (Tin):

  • Suitable for reproofing entire oilskin garments.
  • One 400ml tin will treat a full-length riding coat.
  • Wax compound must be heated and melted before use.
  • Only use genuine Claybourn Reproofer Wax — substitutes may damage the fabric.
  • Do not use leather care products, as oilskin requires different treatment.

Directions for Use:

  1. Place the unopened tin in hot water (lid removed) to liquefy the wax. Do not microwave.
  2. Lay the garment flat and apply wax evenly with a soft brush or sponge. Pay attention to high-wear areas (shoulders, seams, pockets, sleeves, knees).
  3. After application, hang the garment in the sun on a warm day or use a hairdryer on a low setting to help the wax penetrate for a smooth finish.
  4. Hang on a strong hanger and leave to cool before wearing.

    Storage & General Care

    • Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
    • Do not keep in a cupboard or plastic bag for long periods, as this encourages mould.
    • If mould develops, hang in full sun for a couple of weeks. If needed, wash with pure
      soap and reproof.
    • Be mindful — the oil and wax proofing may transfer onto furniture, fabrics, or other
      garments. Avoid contact with porous materials.
    • Do not stitch through or repair the outer fabric unless essential. If repairs are made,
      reproof the area to maintain waterproofing.

    Storage

    • Always store Claybourn oilskin garments in a cool, dry place.
    • We sell special storage bags for oilskin cloths