Nikwax Cotton Proof Review

Nikwax Cotton Proof

But it still does provide better protection than not using anything at all, especially if you are planning on being out in the rainy or snowy environment.

Nikwax Cotton Proof User Manual

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What is Nikwax Cotton Proof

By now, you’re probably familiar with Nikwax’s line of waterproofing sprays and washes. They offer protection against water, stains, and dirt on all sorts of materials like Gore-Tex, down, synthetics, cotton, wool, and even leather. But what exactly is Nikwax Cotton Proof?

Nikwax Cotton Proof is a waterproofing agent designed specifically for use on cotton fabrics. When applied to cotton fabric, it creates an invisible barrier that repels water and helps to prevent stains. It is also effective at repelling dirt, oil, and other contaminants.

Nikwax Cotton Proof can be used on both new and existing garments. It is completely safe for use on all colors of fabric, including dark colors. This is important because some waterproofing agents can cause fading or bleeding of dark-colored fabrics. In the same way, you can safely apply it on delicate fabrics such as silk and wool.

Choose the size that best suits your needs. Nikwax Cotton Proof can be purchased online or at most outdoor retailers. [1],[2],[3]

How to Use Nikwax Cotton Proof

Nikwax Cotton Proof is also easy to apply, and you can do it yourself at home in just a few minutes. Simply follow the instructions on the bottle, and you’ll be good to go. There are actually two ways that you can go around applying Nikwax Cotton Proof to your garments: while machine washing or by hand.

Machine Washing

Machine wash method is the simplest and most effective way to apply Nikwax Cotton Proof. Machine washing will ensure that the waterproofing spray is evenly distributed over the entire garment.

Clean the clothing with Nikwax Tech Wash

Prior to waterproofing, it is recommended that you clean the garments with Nikwax Tech Wash.

Nikwax Tech Wash is a gentle, yet effective, cleaner that will remove any dirt, oils, or other contaminants that may be on the fabric. This step is important because it ensures that the waterproofing spray will be able to bond properly with the fabric. This must be done in a separate cycle from the waterproofing process. If the garment is new, simply follow the instructions on the care label.

All this must be done in a separate cycle from the waterproofing process.

Place the maximum of three items into the washing machine

After the washing machine has been emptied, add your garments to be waterproofed. It is recommended to wash up to three items at a time. This ensures that the garments have enough room to move around and allows the spray to evenly distribute over the fabric. If you are washing more than three items, it is best to do them in separate batches.

Wait for washing machine to fill

Now, simply wait for the washing machine to fill. This is an important step because you don’t want to let the washing agent go to waste. If you add it before the machine is full, then it will pump out the Nikwax Cotton Proof before it has a chance to evenly distribute it. Which will lead to poor results.

Make sure the washing machine’s detergent dispenser is clean and empty

After the washing machine has filled, check to make sure that the detergent dispenser is clean and empty. This is important because you don’t want your garments to be contaminated with any leftover detergent. Excessive detergents will leave a residue that will attract dirt and water, which will defeat the purpose of waterproofing your garments.

If there is any detergent remaining in the dispenser, simply remove it with a damp cloth. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to add the agent into the empty dispenser.

To machine wash your garments with Nikwax Cotton Proof, you need to pour the appropriate amount of product to your washing machine’s detergent dispenser according to the instructions on the bottle. The amount you need to add is based on the size of your load and amount of water you use. Don’t forget to shake the bottle well before using Nikwax!

Once you’ve added the Nikwax Cotton Proof, close the detergent dispenser and run your machine on a heavy soil cycle. Choose a temperature that is appropriate for the garments you’re treating. For most fabrics, Nikwax can be used in cool or warm water. If you’re not sure what cycle to use, simply refer to the care label and wash them as you normally would.

After the cycle is finished, remove your garments from the machine and hang them up to air dry. Do not put your garments in the dryer, as this could damage the fabric. You might notice that fabric will dry quicker than usual. This is normal and simply means that the Nikwax Cotton Proof is working!

Nikwax Cotton Proof can also be reapplied as needed, depending on how often you wear the garment and how exposed it is to water and other contaminants. If you want the waterproofing to stay for longer, you should always machine wash your garments with Nikwax Nikwax Cotton Proof. As we already mentioned, it’s important to avoid using detergents or fabric softeners together with Nikwax, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the agent.[1],[2]

Applying by hand

If you don’t have a washing machine, or if you’re only waterproofing a few items, hand washing is another option. The process is very similar to machine washing, but there are a few key differences.

First, as with machine washing, you’ll want to clean your garments beforehand with Nikwax Tech Wash in order to remove any impurities. Again, this should be done in a separate cycle.

Next, immerse the clothing item by item in at least 1.5 gallons of hot water in a sink or basin and add Nikwax Cotton Proof in quantities according to the instructions on the bottle. Dip each item of clothing into the mixture, making sure that it’s completely saturated

After adding Nikwax Cotton Proof, agitate the garments in the water for at least 5 minutes to ensure that the product is evenly distributed.

Then, rinse your garments thoroughly with clean, hand-hot water until the suds are gone and no product residue remains.

Once you’ve rinsed your garments, you can either air dry them or put them in the tumble dryer on a low heat setting.

Assuming you’ve read and followed the directions correctly, you should have no issues with using Nikwax Cotton Proof.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start waterproofing all of your clothing. First, it’s important to note that Nikwax Cotton Proof is not a detergent, so you’ll need to clean your garments before applying the product. Second, while Nikwax Cotton Proof is effective at waterproofing cotton clothing, it will not make the fabric completely water repellent. This means that if you’re planning on being in heavy rain or standing in water for long periods of time, your clothes will still eventually begin soaking water. [1]

Advantages of Nikwax Cotton Proof

There are many different types of waterproofing agents available on the market today. Some are made specifically for certain materials, while others can be used on multiple types of fabrics. Nikwax Cotton Proof falls into the latter category. It can be used on any type of cotton fabric, including shirts, pants, jackets, and hats. If you are a camping lover or someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, Nikwax Cotton Proof can also be used on tents!

But what makes it stand out? Let’s go over the benefits of this product in detail.

It’s easy to apply

One of the best things about Nikwax Cotton Proof is that it’s very easy to apply. You can either machine wash your garments with the product or hand wash them, depending on your preference. And because it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals, you don’t have to worry about damaging your clothing.

It keeps your clothing breathable

Waterproofing agents are known for making fabrics less breathable. This can be a problem, especially in hot and humid climates. But Nikwax Cotton Proof is different.

This is important for cotton as cotton is a naturally breathable fabric.

This is achieved through the use of water-repellant TX. 10 molecules. TX. 10 is a polymer that is applied to the surface of the fabric. These molecules form a barrier that repels water but still allows moisture to escape from the fabric, making it breathable.

The TX.10 molecules are small enough to penetrate the fabric without clogging up the pores. This means that your clothing will still be able to “breathe” even after it has been treated with Nikwax Cotton Proof.

Protects your cotton items from getting soaked

Nikwax Cotton Proof is a waterproofing agent. This means that it will help to keep your clothing from getting soaked. Waterproofing agents create a durable water repellent (DWR) finish on your cotton fabric. This means that your clothing will be better protected against rain, snow, and even sweat. And because it’s invisible, you don’t have to worry about it changing the look or feel of your clothes.

This barrier is created by the TX. 10 molecules that we mentioned earlier. When these molecules come into contact with water, they swell up and form a seal around the fabric fibers. This prevents water from being able to penetrate the fabric and soak through to your skin.

Nikwax Cotton Proof can also be used on tents!

Tent fabrics are usually made from cotton, so Nikwax Cotton Proof can be used to protect them as well. This will help to keep your tent dry and protected from the elements.

Keep in mind that the Nikwax water-proof treatment won’t be as strong as a traditional waterproofing agent. But it will still provide some protection against the elements and help to keep your clothing breathable.

Environmentally friendly

An amazing thing about Nikwax Cotton Proof is that it is environmentally friendly. Nikwax Cotton Proof is completely free of fluorocarbons (FCs). FCs are a type of chemical that is often used in the manufacturing of waterproof products. However, they have been shown to be harmful to both the environment and human health. Nikwax Cotton Proof is also biodegradable. It means that it will eventually break down and disappear completely, without harming the environment.

What’s more, all Nikwax products are water-based, so you can feel good about using them because it will not pollute the environment or harm any animals or plants. [1],[2],[3],[4]

Cons of Nikwax Cotton Proof

Now that we’ve talked about the pros of Nikwax Cotton Proof, let’s take a look at some of the cons.

Pricey

One of the biggest drawbacks of Nikwax Cotton Proof is the price. It is a bit on the expensive side, especially when you compare it to other waterproofing products on the market. A 300ml bottle costs $13 and it has enough agent for up to six washes.

This might not seem like a lot, but it can add up quickly if you have a lot of clothing that you need to waterproof. And because Nikwax Cotton Proof is water-based, you will need to reapply it more often than other waterproofing agents.

But you have to remember that you get what you pay for. In this case, you are paying for a high-quality, environmentally friendly product. And protecting your valuable clothing is still cheaper than having to replace it.

It doesn’t last as long as some other waterproofing agents

Another con of Nikwax Cotton Proof is that it doesn’t last as long as some other waterproofing agents. This is because it is water-based and it will eventually wash away.

So, if you are looking for a long-term solution, you might want to consider another waterproofing agent, but you might sacrifice breathability in return. But if you don’t mind reapplying it every few washes, then Nikwax Cotton Proof is a great option.

It doesn’t last as long as some other waterproofing agents

Another con of Nikwax Cotton Proof is that it doesn’t last as long as some other waterproofing agents. This is because it is water-based and it will eventually wash away.

So, if you are looking for a long-term solution, you might want to consider another waterproofing agent, but you might sacrifice breathability in return. But if you don’t mind reapplying it every few washes, then Nikwax Cotton Proof is a great option. [2],[3]

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FAQ

How does Nikwax cotton proof work?

Nikwax Cotton Proof is a waterproofing spray that you can use on cotton fabrics. It works by creating a water-repellent barrier on the fabric that will help to keep you dry in wet weather conditions.

Nikwax essentially leaves the waterproofing treatment on fibers that cotton is made of, rather than just sitting on the surface like most other waterproofing treatments.

Nikwax Cotton Proof can be applied to both wet and dry fabrics, and it is recommended that you reapply the treatment every few washes or whenever you notice that the water-repellent properties of your fabric have diminished.

Is Nikwax breathable?

Yes, Nikwax is breathable. This means that it will allow your cotton clothing to release sweat and moisture vapor while still providing protection from the elements.

One of the biggest concerns with waterproofing sprays is that they can make fabrics less breathable. But Nikwax Cotton Proof actually helps increase a fabric’s ability to release moisture vapor, making it more comfortable to wear in warm weather.

Is Nikwax silicone based?

No, Nikwax Cotton Proof is a water-based product. This means that it is much more environmentally friendly than silicone-based products and will not damage your gear.

Nikwax Cotton Proof is also biodegradable, so you can feel good about using it without harming the environment. Silicone-based waterproofing sprays can actually damage your gear by clogging pores and preventing breathability. Which Nikwax does not do.

How often should you use Nikwax?

This really depends on how often you wear your cotton garments and in what conditions. If you’re constantly out in the rain or washing your clothes frequently, you’ll need to reapply more often. We recommend every two to three washes, or as needed.

Nikwax also has a handy guide on their website that can help you determine how often to waterproof your gear.

Related Video: Nikwax Cotton Proof Product Overview

Conclusion

All in all, Nikwax Cotton Proof is a great product that does what it promises, protecting your cotton items from water, as the water will bead up and roll right off. Because of its water-based structure, Nikwax is environmentally friendly and helps preserve the breathability of cotton fabrics. However, depending on how often you expose your garments to water or wash them, the treatment may not last as long as some other waterproofing agents out there, so keep that in mind when making your purchase decision. Thanks for reading our Nikwax Cotton Proof review!

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References:

1. https://www.nikwax.com/en-us/products/cotton-proof/
2. https://road.cc/content/review/234720-nikwax-cotton-proof
3. https://www.raymears.com/Bushcraft_Product/1189-Nikwax-Cotton-Proof-300-ml/
4. https://bikeportland.org/2018/03/09/keep-it-waterproof-a-guide-to-getting-more-out-of-your-gear-269900