Cotton is a natural fibre; as such it is renewable, biodegradable and can be produced sustainably. It is highly versatile and can be made into many fabrics, each with different properties. Additionally, cotton can be blended with synthetic fibres, such as polyester, to combine the desirable properties of both materials.
Cotton fabrics are breathable, absorbent and strong. They are used to make clothing and outdoor equipment, but they are not naturally water-repellent.

When cotton gets wet, it stays wet...

Cotton is highly absorbent and retains water, so it takes a long time to dry after becoming wet. This is why it is important to ensure that cotton outer clothing and equipment do not absorb water, as this will cause an increase in weight and reduce their breathability.
To prevent water absorption by cotton textiles, durable water-repellency (DWR) can be added by using Nikwax Cotton Proof™.

Your cotton items may absorb water simply because they are dirty. Try cleaning them first using Nikwax Tech Wash® and if they are relatively new or recently re-treated, the durable water-repellent (DWR) layer will be restored simply by cleaning. But when items are well used, you will need to add DWR using Nikwax Cotton Proof™, and this should be done after first cleaning with Nikwax Tech Wash®.

How to use...

Nikwax Cotton Proof™ has been specially designed and optimised for cotton, polycotton and canvas to provide durable water-repellency (DWR) whilst maintaining breathability. If your item is made from waxed cotton, make sure you use Nikwax Wax Cotton Proof™ for best results.

Nikwax Cotton Proof™ has been specially designed and optimised for breathable cotton, polycotton and canvas materials; it leaves a flexible water-repellent finish on individual fibres that allows moisture vapour to pass through, thereby maintaining breathability, extending the life of your equipment and optimising performance in wet weather.

How to use

Use Nikwax Cotton Proof™ in the washing machine...

For best results, always wash the item(s) first using Nikwax Tech Wash in a separate wash cycle. There is no need to dry the item(s) before treatment. Shake well before use. Follow the care label instructions.

1. Remove all detergent residue from the detergent dispenser.
2. Place clean item(s) in the washing machine (maximum 3 items).
3. Use 50 ml for 1 item, 100 ml for 2 items and 150 ml for 3 items.
4. Wash according to the care label instructions.

Air dry or tumble dry on low if the care label permits.
To maintain water-repellency always wash with Nikwax Tech Wash. Do not use standard detergents.

Nikwax Cotton Proof™ can be applied by hand...

For best results, always clean the item(s) first using Nikwax Tech Wash. There is no need to dry the item(s) before treatment. Shake well before use. Follow the care label instructions.

Wear gloves

1. Immerse clean item(s) in 6 litres of hand-warm water in a sink or bowl.
2. Use 50 ml for 1 item and 100 ml for 2 items.
3. Stir, leave for 5 minutes and then stir thoroughly.
4. Rinse in cold water until the water runs clear.

Air dry or tumble dry on low if the care label permits.
To maintain water-repellency always wash with Nikwax Tech Wash. Do not use standard detergents.

For use on tents, dilute Nikwax Cotton Proof™...

For best results, always clean the tent(s) first using Nikwax SolarWash®. There is no need to dry the item(s) before treatment. Shake well before use.

Wear gloves

1. Erect the tent OR protect the work surface and lay the clean item on a flat surface.
2. Add 1 part product to 9 parts water and mix well*.
3. Apply the diluted product evenly to the outside of wet or dry fabric using a brush or sponge (ensure the product penetrates the fabric surface). For large items, apply in sections.
4. During treatment of the fabric, remove excess product with a damp cloth.
5. After a few minutes, check and remove excess product with a damp cloth**.
6. Carefully check that no areas have been missed.

*Approximately 50 ml of product before dilution covers 3 m² of fabric. Coverage is approximate and depends on the condition of the fabric being treated.

**Staining may occur on the fabric if excess product is not wiped off. Test on a hidden area first.

Permanent water-repellency (DWR) will develop as the fabric dries. Allow the item(s) to dry completely before packing.

To maintain waterproofing always clean with Nikwax SolarWash®. Do not use standard detergents.
For treating synthetic tents use Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof®.