Water-repellent impregnations, or What is DWR. What is DWR? Water-repellent impregnation for nylon clothing

Everyone has at least once encountered a situation where comfortable, practical and inexpensive shoes become unusable after the first winter or spring rains. Water, snow, frost and especially chemicals that are mercilessly sprinkled on sidewalks cause severe damage to leather, suede and textile materials. Unfortunately, buying more expensive boots will not change anything, since aggressive substances can corrode even metal. The same goes for clothes - white stains constantly form on trousers, and stains from raindrops remain on jackets.

You can correct the situation and save a decent amount of money if you purchase such specialized products as: water-repellent impregnation for shoes and clothes.

How water repellents work

First of all, let's look at the types of surfaces that water gets on:

Hydrophilic. In this case, moisture spreads over the material, occupying the maximum possible area.
Hydrophobic. When water hits such a surface, it does not spread, but takes on a hemispherical shape. Thanks to this, less moisture is absorbed.

If we talk about shoes made of nubuck, suede, leather and other materials, they are not only hydrophilic, but also have a porous surface. Pores (or capillaries) literally “suck” water, so boots must be soaked with special products.

If you use cheap water repellents, they simply form a protective film on the surface. Because of this, the pores become clogged and the person’s leg does not “breathe.” Therefore, it is better to choose a higher quality hydrophobic spray that covers each pore with a protective layer, reducing its diameter, but does not interfere with breathability. This type of treatment is often called super hydrophobic coating.

If we talk about the types of water repellents, today you can find water repellents on sale that cost from 50 to 3,000 rubles.

Types of water repellents

The form of release of products that form a waterproof film is very diverse:

Creams. Such compositions are divided into two categories: thick and liquid. The first type of product contains solvent, wax, animal fat and coloring components. They are only suitable for leather shoes. Liquid cream (or emulsion) is recommended for use in warm weather. This water-repellent liquid contains a smaller amount of solvents (which are sometimes completely replaced with water) and protects shoes to the least extent. Liquid products are often used to obtain shine rather than to protect the material.
Water repellent spray. Products of this type are suitable for almost all materials. Water-repellent sprays are used for shoes and clothing. Such compositions are easy to apply and have a wide spectrum of action. Unlike creams and liquids, aerosols have a longer shelf life.
Impregnations. Compositions of this type penetrate deep into the material and protect it for the longest time from the harmful effects of atmospheric phenomena. You need to choose a water-repellent impregnation for clothes and shoes based on the type of fabric: for suede, products with fluorocarbon resin (forming a kind of epoxy coating on the surface) are suitable; for smooth leather, it is better to give preference to silicone compounds; for other materials, fluorine-containing water repellents.

It rarely happens that a person wears clothes and shoes exclusively from one material, so preference should be given to an aerosol (spray), which is suitable for both suede shoes and leather jackets.

Speaking about the best means, let's look at the most popular ones.

Best Water Repellent Spray Brands

Most often, stores buy products that are “heard of,” however, this does not mean that there are no other equally high-quality analogues on sale. Let's consider the main compositions with the best characteristics.

Collonil

Collonil Nanopro water-repellent spray costs about 1,300 rubles. This product is suitable for smooth leather, velor, fur, nubuck and any textiles. The Collonil composition was developed using modern nano-technologies. Particles of the “drug” envelop the material and form a protective moisture-resistant film on it. Collonil is most suitable for use in the off-season, but it cannot handle chemicals and salt.

It is also worth noting the rather pungent odor of the aerosol. Because of this, using Collonil indoors is not recommended. The spray is not sold in every city, so if you want to purchase it, it is better to immediately start searching for Collonil on the Internet.

Salamander

Salamander Universal SMS shoe spray is very popular among consumers due to its relatively low cost from 300 to 500 rubles, as well as its wide range of applications (Salamander aerosols treat not only clothes and shoes, but also umbrellas, as well as “breathable” Gore materials -Tex). However, if you have ever used products from this brand, then you most likely noticed a rather strong and pungent odor. The manufacturer does not hide this information and strongly recommends applying the aerosol only outdoors or in a ventilated area.

Drywall

The “Drywall” product, costing 1,990 rubles, is a universal water-repellent spray that is suitable for both natural and artificial fabrics of any type (including Gore-Tex materials and membrane shoes). The composition has a long validity period (up to 3 months). The main advantage of the Drywall spray is the absence of toxic components in the protective aerosol. In addition, nano impregnation for shoes does not contain oil, wax, acrylic, paraffin and solvents. The appearance of things does not change even after repeated treatment with a water repellent.

Drywall for shoes forms a transparent water-repellent coating that does not clog the pores of the material, so “your skin will breathe.” Thanks to these properties, the water repellent can be used both in winter for skiing, and in hot weather.

If you do not want to use a water-repellent spray, then you can choose a high-quality impregnation.

The best brands of water-repellent impregnations

Among the best products used to impregnate fabrics, it is worth highlighting the following:

Water-repellent impregnation Woly Sport. This impregnation in aerosol packaging was also developed using modern nano-technologies. The product costs about 400 rubles. Woly Sport is suitable for all types of fabric, but is most often used for sports shoes and Gore-Tex materials.
Olvist. The main advantage of Olvist water-repellent aerosol impregnation is its fairly low cost (200 - 250 rubles). The product is suitable for textiles, smooth and fleecy leather.
Textile Protect water-repellent impregnations. The product of this brand is available in a bottle with a spray bottle and costs about 2,000 rubles. This water repellent is a specialized compound that is used to treat not only shoes, but also sails, covers and awnings. However, applying Textile Protect to clothing is not recommended.
Nikwax. Impregnation costs from 300 rubles. The product is available for different types of material. For example, a special water repellent Nikwax Down Proof has been developed for down jackets.

When purchasing any composition, try to consider why exactly you need a water repellent. When it comes to Gore-Tex fabrics, try to choose sprays or impregnations that indicate this type of material in the instructions.

It is also worth considering some features of caring for shoes and clothing treated with protective compounds.

Features of the use of water repellents

Before you start using a water repellent, you need to consider several nuances:

Impregnations for clothing are added to water, into which the jacket or trousers are then dipped. Shoes cannot be treated this way. Therefore, the easiest way is to buy a spray that can be easily applied to any thing.
To ensure that the protective coating remains on your clothes as long as possible, try to wash items by hand.
Before applying any product, it is necessary to rinse and dry the item being treated thoroughly.
The maximum effect from the water repellent can be expected within a day. It is better not to wear impregnated shoes for 24 hours after treatment.

If you accidentally drop ketchup or grease onto the treated surface, you can remove the stains with a regular paper napkin.
Products that form water-repellent coatings on the surface are not recommended for use on bedding and underwear.

In custody

Many people don’t even think about why water repellents are needed and what useful function such compounds perform. Thanks to these tools, you can increase the service life of your shoes several times and save on buying a new pair of shoes. All that remains is to choose a high-quality spray or impregnation, and forget about problems such as stains or dirt stains.

Hello my dear readers! In spring, we are increasingly faced with changeable weather; a few minutes ago the sun was shining, but now it’s raining. In the spring and autumn months, water-repellent spray for clothes is especially relevant. We'll talk about it today. Do you have your own favorites? If yes, write in the comments.

During a long journey, our clothes, shoes and equipment get dirty and lose their “magical” properties. To restore them, the manufacturer recommends using a special detergent and impregnation agent.

A new jacket or shoe has already been treated with factory impregnation. Its presence is easy to check; just sprinkle a few drops of water, and they will certainly roll off. This happens thanks to Durable Water Repellent. This is a hydrophobic coating, which increases the tension on the surface of the material (rather than the membrane), and water beads up rather than penetrating further into the fiber.

This water-repellent outer surface provides another layer of insulating air. And, what is also important, impregnation prevents condensation from appearing on the inside of clothing, while helping the membrane work.

Water-repellent liquid - what is it?

This is a solution or emulsion of substances in which the percentage of surface tension (STN) is low. What happens to fabrics when they are treated with such a composition?

The solvent (manufacturers most often use water), together with substances (or emulsions) dissolved in it, gets onto the fabric, thereby softening its surface. Then the water contained in the solvent evaporates, and the surface of all fibers contains thin layers of water-repellent substances (they do not evaporate). As a result, you get a fiber whose surface attracts water much less - it collects in drops and is less drawn by the force of surface tension into the pores of the fabric.

Aqua armor and its types:

According to the method of application, aqua armor is conventionally divided into the following groups:

Impregnations that are added to water, and then completely immerse the desired item in the resulting solution and leave it there for several hours. I think it’s clear that this group of impregnations is not suitable for shoes. Such aqua armor can be purchased in regular containers of different sizes with a lid.

Pros: very dense impregnation, does not allow moisture to pass through;

Cons: you will have to arm yourself with a basin (washing machine), water and time for drying. If you want to wash things, then it is more rational to combine washing and impregnation - wash/rinse first and immediately, before the items are dry, treat them with impregnation.

Impregnations that are applied to the item being treated with a spray (spray, aerosol) or sponge.

Hydrocarbon solvent impregnations can be purchased in aerosol packaging, and water-based ones - in a bottle with mechanical sprayers or with a foam sponge. They are easy to use - spray on the surface you plan to treat, or apply the product to a sponge and apply it to the surface.

Impregnation with a hydrocarbon solvent should be applied exclusively to a dry surface and it is advisable to do this outdoors or indoors if it is well ventilated, otherwise there is a risk of poisoning from solvent vapors. Water-based impregnation is applied to any surface (wet or dry), but it is better to apply it wet. Such impregnations are most often purchased before a trip.

Water-repellent impregnation: the rule of the three “Ps” - hem, wash, soak

Impregnation for tents

It is a liquid, paste or aerosol, thanks to which the water-repellent characteristics of an awning or tent are restored. They differ in functionality and composition from impregnations for products with a fabric membrane. By the way, most manufacturers do not write what components are included in their impregnations. This is considered a trade secret.

Despite this, many impregnations for tents contain polyurethane or silicone, which increase the water resistance of the fabric. Some manufacturers offer users to purchase not only water-repellent, but also fire-resistant impregnation - it will prevent your tent from catching fire, although it will not save you from the appearance of small burns in places where the fire was directly affected.

Impregnations for membrane fabrics

I can confidently say that only our people know how to “kill” a thing made of membrane fabric so quickly. Everyone washes their snowboard jackets with a simple powder, which will certainly clog all the pores and destroy the water-repellent layer. Then the jackets are “cooked” in a washing machine for several hours in hot water, despite the instructions, which indicate that the membrane should be washed only at temperatures no higher than 40 degrees.

It is best to do this manually, and if in a washing machine, then only in a gentle mode. And then such negative comments appear on the Internet, where they write that the membrane is nonsense.

And even those who already know that membrane clothing is washed with a special detergent and soaked after all washes still confuse everything. Like the guy who once told me over lunch how he ran into a sports store shouting that he bought impregnation from them, treated things with it, and they became like rubber boots. Their impregnation ruined a $400 jacket! He shouted and shouted, and then it turned out that he had purchased impregnation not for membrane fabric, but one that he liked in a jar, and it is only suitable for tents.

To avoid accidents, read the instructions before using detergent and impregnation for outdoor equipment and membrane clothing!

Each individual material needs its own impregnation and detergent

There is impregnation for shoes - for leather products, for suede boots, for extreme shoes, there is a hydrophobic spray for various fabrics - from Gore-Tex to cotton products, there are products for down jackets and sleeping bags, and for thermal socks. All impregnations differ in composition and properties; they are used strictly for their intended purpose, in order to avoid spoiled items. If it is written that this product is suitable exclusively for washing a down jacket, then it should be used for down products, and whatever one may say, it will be useless for a synthetic jacket.

You need to be especially careful when washing and impregnating Gore-Tex items. It is precisely because of the special film, in which there are many holes (pores), they are so small that steam and no drops of water pass through them - the clothes have wind- and waterproof properties.

But in some cases (heavy rain or snowfall), something like a dense water film appears on the surface of the material, which does not allow any evaporation to pass through. To avoid this, all products using such a membrane are impregnated at the production stage with special protective compounds DVR, which envelop the fabric fibers, and then “like water off a duck’s back.” But over the years, such a protective layer is wiped off, and washing partially “kills” it. That’s when impregnation is needed, which restores the properties of the fabric and, accordingly, extends the life of clothes, shoes and equipment.

Reviews on the Internet

Before writing this article, I read quite a few reviews, many of which were extremely positive.

According to users, the best impregnations are water-based. If we compare them with products that contain exclusively chemical solvents, “water impregnations” do not affect the fabric structure in any way, they can be used without harm to the environment, and they are applied not only to dry, but also to wet clothes.

However, this only applies to the membrane. If, for example, you want the jacket in which you do yoga in the morning to not get wet in the rain, use any aerosol impregnation on the market.

And since their smell is not significantly different, the main thing is that everything suits you.

Nano reflector - a great tool or a publicity stunt?

Honestly, I wanted to ask you this question, my dear readers. Have you all probably seen an advertisement on TV or on the Internet where a guy pours dirt on a car, and it remains clean like after a wash?

It turns out that the company that produces Nano reflector has made a whole line for motorists, for shoe and clothing owners, and also protection for building materials. Have you tried this product?

If yes, write to me, it will be very interesting to read your reviews, because I can’t write anything about this yet.

Nano reflector stands out:

The most universal composition for clothing and shoes.
The fastest polymerization after application (up to forty minutes).
Its functionality. From the very beginning, the spray was developed as a care product for expensive products, thanks to it, it preserves color, water permeability and softness of the material.
Contact angle up to 140°.
Moisture resistance of 9 thousand mm. water column.
Protection from exposure to water, dirt, and reagents found on the street.
Application stages. The spray does not need to be pre-mixed and applied in stages.
Superhydrophobic coating, which does not create a yellowish or white coating.
Modification of the fabric fibers themselves. If we compare the product with cheaper analogues, it does not create a film, but the fabric fibers themselves are modified, imparting hydrophobicity and resistance to long-term exposure to the aggressive outside world.

Aliexpress or other online store

Where do you buy goods? The opinion of my friends was divided into several camps: someone buys everything at Aliexpress

others on Ebay, and others on Amazon. I can say that the choice here is entirely yours, I will not write which portal I like best, and where I order things, so as not to read in the comments about possible advertising.

Below I will describe several popular products that have received the most positive reviews on the Internet.

Surely this manufacturer of water-based products is known all over the world. The company specializes in imparting water-repellent effects. The history of the company is associated with mountaineer Nicholas Brown, who invented the first shoe impregnation in 1977; 6 years later, impregnation based on the water-repellent elastomer Nikwax TX.10i entered the market. The company's impregnations may not lose their effectiveness even after several washes.

A company from England has been working on the production of high-tech water-repellent impregnations for clothing, shoes and travel equipment since 2003. Storm is part of Germany's largest private chemical company, Rudolf Chemicals. Those who have products with Gore-Tex, Sympatex and eVent membranes should opt for the product.

Friends, I hope you found this article useful, if so, don’t forget to share it on social networks and subscribe to. In the comments, please write a list of topics that you want to discuss in the near future. See you soon! Agent Q was with you.

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Reading time: 6 minutes

In order for a jacket or down jacket to look decent for a long time, you need a water-repellent impregnation for clothing. It will preserve the appearance of the product and prevent moisture from penetrating inside. This is true during winter snowfalls, spring and autumn rains, and morning fogs. Residents of cities with a humid climate cannot do without this product.

Types of impregnations

Hydrophobic impregnation comes in three types depending on the method of application:

1 Add to the washing machine along with a special detergent. After washing, the product must be ironed with steam. Typically these compounds are used for membrane materials. 2 Machine washable without drying or ironing. Suitable for many sports and membrane fabrics. 3 In the form of a spray, it is used for shoes and workwear that cannot be washed in the usual way. This method is more convenient, but it needs to be updated frequently. The spray product is not durable enough.

Fabric impregnation comes in the following types:

WR is applied to the front side of the product. Clothes will not get wet, drops of moisture will roll down the protective composition. The material will not become damp in very humid climates; the impregnation will not allow fine steam or fog to enter.
PU processes the inside of the item. Polyurethane impregnation will not allow liquid to pass through, but the outside of the fabric will get wet.
DuPoint - Teflon-based composition, version of WR solution. Teflon impregnation is used not for simple clothing, but for things that are used in special conditions. These are tents, furniture, outerwear.
PD is applied to the reverse side. In addition to water repellency, it makes the material stronger. Usually it is combined with other types.
Silver is used on the outside. An additional quality is that it protects the canvas from the sun and prevents the dye from fading.
Ultra Foil is applied from the inside. With its help, a strong protective shiny film is obtained.

Silicone impregnation is expensive and is only used for tents, not clothing. It is less effective than polyurethane and is difficult to apply.

DWR impregnation is used for membrane clothing. It will protect the item from moisture. Membrane fabrics are initially needed to absorb liquid, but not allow it to reach the body. At the same time, the person will sweat a lot, and the clothes will become heavy. Therefore, sports, military, and tourist clothing made of membrane are impregnated with this product.

DWR impregnation is water soluble. This happens slowly, but wash such items with a suitable detergent.

By composition

Hydrophobic impregnation for clothing is divided into two types according to its composition:

Based on hydrocarbon solvents. They contain solvents and fluorocarbon resins. It is a compound of fluorine and carbon, usually Teflon. Trichloroethane is usually used as a solvent. They are applied only to a dry surface. It is recommended to do this in front of an open window or outside to avoid poisoning. They have quite a strong smell. Hydrocarbon compounds are harmful to humans and the environment, but they dry out quickly.
Water impregnation is not so dangerous and does not have a particularly pronounced odor. To avoid dissolving when exposed to moisture, it is usually produced in the form of an emulsion. Does not contain harmful solvents that are dangerous to nature and humans. Convenient for use on a hike. The product is applied to a dry or wet surface. The second option is more effective.

The best means

Top water-repellent impregnations:

Nikwax water-based moisture protection spray. A harmless, environmentally friendly product, suitable even for treating sports jerseys. Protects against moisture, but allows air to pass through. There are containers of 150, 300 and 500 ml. Convenient dispenser and protective mechanism. A water-repellent spray is suitable for fabrics made of nylon and cotton fibers, for ski suits with various insulation. Among the disadvantages - the cost is about 500 rubles for a small bottle; the need to use gloves and spread the liquid with a sponge on clothing.

Fabric spray for different types of materials Salamander, made in Germany. Suitable for shoes too. Made on a hydrocarbon base with photocarbon polymer. Can be used on suede, leather, textiles. This impregnation is dirt and water repellent. Prevents the appearance of salt, snow and water stains. You can buy 300 ml for 250 rubles.

Dry Care spray is suitable for leather, suede, velor and various fabrics. It is applied to a clean and dry surface. Combines dirt- and water-resistant properties. Contains no silicones. The product from a Russian manufacturer costs 500 rubles per bottle.

How to use water-repellent impregnations:

Hand washing is recommended to ensure long lasting protective coating. Before using the product, the item must be clean and grease-free. Dry or wet - this is indicated on the packaging.
To properly protect the fabric from rain, snow or any other moisture, it is recommended to wait a day after using the impregnation. During this time, it is better not to wear the item.
A grease or food stain can be blotted with a paper napkin if it gets on an area that has already been treated.
How water-repellent impregnation is washed off: with frequent washing, under constant exposure to weather conditions, this process occurs faster. Then re-application will be required.
Products containing harmful substances are used outdoors or near an open window. Many impregnations cannot be used near open flames. This should be taken into account when processing an awning or tent.

How to treat the fabric so it doesn't get wet? It depends on the material and its purpose. What works for a tent may not work for a leather jacket. If you don’t want to think again, it is recommended to choose a universal remedy.

In some cases, during the final finishing of textile materials, it is necessary not only to improve the performance properties and increase sanitary and hygienic indicators, but also to give the fabrics specific properties, such as the ability to repel water, resist oil and other contaminants, be fire-resistant, bactericidal, and resistant to rotting. These types of finishes are called special. Special fabrics and fabrics for technical purposes are most often subjected to this treatment. Household fabrics are processed much less frequently.

Water-repellent fabric treatment

There are two ways to give hydrophilic fibers the ability to repel water:

1. A continuous film of substances with hydrophobic properties, rubber, polyvinyl chloride, etc. is applied to the surface of the fabric. The film covers the pores of the fabric, making it both air and waterproof. More often this method is used in the manufacture of technical fabrics, raincoats, various capes, etc.

2. The surface of individual threads and fibers is blocked, the pores of the fabric are not closed. The fabric repels water while maintaining breathability. Water rolls off the fabric in drops without wetting its surface. With water-repellent impregnation, it is impossible to achieve complete waterproofness.

Waterproofing impregnations are most often a water-based emulsion to which polymer wax has been added. The wax has a high concentration of paraffins, which are characterized by a low surface tension coefficient. There are impregnations based on resins, silicones, polymers and solvents.

Labeling fabrics with water-repellent properties

Water-repellent impregnation (WO)- protection from moisture, allows sweat vapor to pass through, retains moisture from the outside.

Waterproof impregnation (OW)– protection from moisture

Combined light-resistant impregnation with increased water resistance (SKPV)– protection from moisture and light exposure.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)– a fairly dense coating on the inside of the fabric, which gives the material waterproof properties. PVC has high fire resistance, low electrical and thermal conductivity, and is resistant to chemicals.

Polyurethane (PU)– colorless impregnation, applied to the inside, imparts waterproof properties. The impregnation is resistant to organic solvents, grease, sweat, but has a low degree of protection from ultraviolet radiation. The degree of water resistance and rigidity of the material depends on the thickness of the polyurethane layer.

Polyurethane milky (PU milky)– has a white color, properties similar to PU.

Polyurethane ultra (PU ultra)– the PU layer is larger to improve water resistance and moisture resistance.

Polyurethane foam (PU foam)– impregnation is sprayed onto the fabric.

Polyurethane 3times (PU3)– application of a triple layer of PU.

Polyurethane with silicone (PU/SI)– applied in three versions – outside, inside and silicone treatment on both sides. Silicone prevents water from penetrating the fabric fibers. Impregnation protects against moisture and ultraviolet radiation, increases the service life of the fabric, and the fabric has increased tensile strength. The main disadvantage is the high cost compared to PU; it cannot be combined with fire resistance.

Polyamide (PA)– gives the fabric waterproof and airtight properties, is not washed off with water, and has increased resistance to organic solvents, sweat and grease.

Silver coating– gives waterproof properties, protects against ultraviolet radiation, provides a thermos effect (preserves temperature), prevents the migration of fluff, and is an addition to PU and PA.

Impregnation with water repellent (WR)– applied to the outside of the fabric, imparts water-repellent properties. Impregnation maintains the breathability of the material.

Calendering cire– gives the fabric airtightness.

Polyurethane milky- applied inside and outside the fabric, reduces the degree of transparency of the fabric. Used as a lint-retaining agent.

Oil- and dirt-repellent impregnation of fabric

This impregnation reduces the ability of the fabric to absorb dirt, both in the form of oils and in the form of emulsions and aqueous solutions of various substances. This is partially achieved at the stage of finishing the fabrics with preparations that give them the effects of low shrinkage, low removability and water repellency.

Dirt-removing impregnation (GRU)– allows you to easily remove dirt.

Oil-water-repellent impregnation (OWRO)– protects against oil and water contamination.

Oil-oil-water-repellent impregnation (OMWO)– does not allow water, oil, petroleum products to penetrate, maintains the vapor permeability of fabrics.

Fire retardant impregnation of fabric

Textile materials are all flammable. Chemical and cellulose natural fibers burn most quickly. Protein fibers are more resistant to fire. Synthetic fibers generally melt and shrink when heated, and burn strongly when ignited.

Principles of fire protection

1. A chemical is applied to the fabric, which, when decomposed during combustion, releases non-flammable gases.

2. A non-flammable film is formed on the fabric, which during combustion will protect the material from contact with air.

3. Increasing the fire resistance of the fiber due to the chemical transformation of its functional groups

It is possible to use several methods of fire protection, the so-called. combined method of fire protection. The method of fire protection is indicated - OP (fire retardant impregnation).

Biocidal impregnation of fabric

Biocidal Finish (B&O) textiles is the finishing of fibers with biocidal agents that give the fabric antimicrobial, antiallergic and repellent properties.

Antimicrobial impregnation (AMO)– prevents bacteria, fungi and viruses from multiplying; textiles play the role of a protective barrier for the skin from pathogenic microorganisms.

Antifungal impregnation (PGO)– a type of AMO, inhibits the growth of mold and microorganisms on fabric.

Anti-putrefactive impregnation (AGO)– protects fabric from rotting caused by microorganisms upon contact with soil and water.

Anti-allergenic impregnation (PAO)– protects fabric from microscopic dust mites, has a preventive effect.

Repellent impregnation (RO)– gives the fabric the ability to repel blood-sucking insects that are carriers of infections.

Fans of active recreation (climbers, snowboarders, people who go hiking) know how much attention needs to be paid to the choice of equipment - clothes, shoes, tents. But not everyone pays attention to manufacturers’ recommendations for treating materials with DWR. And the advice applies not only to ordinary fabrics, but also to membrane ones. What water-repellent impregnation for fabric is is clear, but due to ignorance of the principle of its operation, many simply underestimate the importance of this product. It is also often misused. At best, this makes the application of the substance simply useless. At worst, it can ruin the fabric. Let's figure out how DWR works.

Why is impregnation needed?

It is clear that impregnation is necessary to protect against water. But what exactly is the danger of getting wet fabrics?

When the fibers absorb water, all the voids in the fabric are filled with it. Because of this, there is no way for the fumes to escape. A person in such wet clothes begins to sweat heavily.
Problems also arise with thermal conductivity - in wet clothes you freeze much faster.
Filling all the spaces of the fabric with water causes another problem - the fabric becomes heavier several times.

And all these problems are typical even for membrane fabric - the top layer may not withstand the onslaught of moisture.

Principle of operation

To understand how fabric impregnation works, let’s delve a little deeper into chemistry and physics courses.

Let's imagine a drop of water that is in zero gravity. The molecules of the drop in this state, located at the edges, tend to join the molecules that are in the center. That is, the drop reduces the area it occupies and does not spread, but gathers into a small ball. The force of attraction between molecules that are located at the boundary with a substance in another phase is called surface tension.

But the situation looks different when drops of water fall on solid bodies - for example, on fabric. Fabric molecules attract water molecules. And this attraction may be stronger than what exists between the molecules of the drops. Because of this, the surface of the material eventually gets wet.

That is, the task of water-repellent impregnation is not to literally repel drops of liquid from the material. The principle of its operation is different - it consists of substances that have weak surface tension. Weak compared to liquid. Because of this, water molecules overcome the forces that attract them to the surface of solids and tend to the center (as in the described example with weightlessness). Drops of water collect in a ball, and the fabric does not get wet.

Compound

There are two main substances that have the necessary water-repellent properties.

Teflon. Its surface tension coefficient is very low - no more than twenty. So it is resistant to both water (which has a rating of seventy-two) and fats.
Silicones. Their coefficient is slightly higher, but also far from the tensile force of water.

All impregnations that provide waterproofness are divided into two types:

hydrocarbons;
aquatic

The former, as a rule, contain Teflon (the original name is polytetrafluoroethylene). The main advantage of such impregnations is that they dry quickly.

But hydrocarbon compounds have several disadvantages:

Due to the solvent in the composition, they have an unpleasant odor.
This same substance makes the products hazardous to the environment.
They can only be applied to dry material.
It is better to treat equipment with them outdoors. Or in a room that can be left empty for a long time for ventilation.

Impregnations from the second group - water-based - have much more positive properties.

They do not contain hazardous substances, so they do not harm the environment.
They are applied to both dry and wet materials. The second option is even preferable.
These products do not have an unpleasant odor.

They also contain silicones.

Types of impregnations

But the main element of the composition is not the only basis for classifying impregnations. Due to the prevalence and importance of this product, specialized impregnations appear that have a specific purpose.

Impregnations for ordinary breathable fabrics. They are applied to clothes.
Impregnations for membrane fabric. They provide water- and dirt-repellent properties of the outer layer of the material. But this substance does not affect the windproof function and the ability of the membrane to transmit water vapor.
Impregnations for non-breathable fabrics. They are suitable for application to backpacks or tents.

Terms of use

It is important to know not only what to impregnate the fabric with so that it does not let water through, but also how to use this product correctly.

First you need to choose the right impregnation.

Decide what exactly you need it for - for clothes, a tent, a backpack, and so on. There are also products on sale that are suitable for all of the above.
Choose impregnation based on the material - membrane or non-membrane fabric, synthetics, suede, down products, and so on.

Impregnation is available in two forms.

In the first case, this is a substance that is sold in a jar. It must be dissolved in a certain amount of water. And rinse the material in this liquid. When processing in this way, you don’t have to worry about missing some area of the fabric. However, this method is more labor-intensive and rather inconvenient, so most people choose impregnation in a different form.
In the form of a spray (aerosol or atomizer) or sponge. Here the substance is already distributed throughout the tissue directly from the container. This method is much simpler and less energy-intensive. True, you will have to apply the product very carefully so as not to miss areas of the tissue.

Follow the two most important rules when applying impregnation:
Such manipulations should be carried out with a clean cloth;
if you use an aerosol, then carry out the procedure outside or in a ventilated area.

Famous manufacturers

Let's look at the most popular water-repellent impregnations.

With Woly Sport impregnation you can protect all your equipment. It is universal and suitable for any materials (even membrane fabrics) and products (not only for clothes, but also for suede shoes). Available in cans. Refers to hydrocarbon impregnations. Has no color. It costs about four hundred rubles.
Holmenkol Hightec Proof is a special impregnation only for membrane fabrics. The peculiarity of its composition allows the material to maintain high breathability. Protects the fabric not only from water and dirt, but also from fat. Features long-lasting protection. The cost is approximately a thousand rubles.
Nikwax TX Direct Spray-on is an impregnation that is also designed specifically for membrane fabrics. It is suitable specifically for breathable materials, so it is worth using it for clothing. Can be applied to wet or damp fabric. Enhances the breathability of the material. The price is approximately six hundred rubles.

Conclusion

Water-repellent impregnation is a must-have product for any person who enjoys outdoor activities. The absence of such protection on the fabric deprives it of breathability (which leads to increased sweating) and makes the material very heavy and unable to protect you from the cold.

Based on their composition, there are two types of impregnations - hydrocarbon and water-based. It is worth giving preference to the latter - they are safe and can be used on both dry and wet materials.

In stores you can find a wide variety of impregnations in a wide price range.