When you’re headed out on a camping or boating trip, the last thing you want to worry about is a heavy rainstorm cutting through your rain jacket. Sure, you can spend a ton of money on a waterproof raincoat – but over time, that coat is going to lose its ability to repel water. Even worse, it might start to fade in color as it does so.
A good way to combat this is to use a waterproof spray that can keep not only water, but also dirt, oil, and other messes off your clothing. The best waterproofing spray will not only be useful on your clothing, but can also be used as a tent or shoe protector spray, allowing you to keep all of your gear safe, dry, and effective.
Not sure what to look for? We’ll walk you through some helpful tips when it comes to buying a waterproof spray for fabric of all kinds – and give you our top recommendations, too.
What to Look for in a Waterproofing Spray
Material
First and foremost, consider what kinds of material your new waterproofing spray can be used on. Not all sprays are made the same – in fact, not all can be used on the same kinds of materials.
Although there are sprays out there for just about any kind of gear, you need to make sure you invest in the right kind of waterproofing spray for the material you intend to use it on, such as Gore-Tex, leather, or suede.
Even if you purchase a waterproofing spray that allegedly is safe to use on your desired type of fabric, always make sure you test it first on a small patch.
Changes to Clothing
The only change you want your waterproofing spray to make is an improvement in water repelling properties, right? Unfortunately, there are countless waterproofing sprays on the market that not only discolor your garments or equipment but can also leave behind an unpleasant odor. Some even affect the breathability of your clothing!
To avoid this, make sure you check the description and reviews listed for a product. You should not’ be able to notice any differences in color or odor after applying the waterproofing spray, but sometimes, these alterations happen because of user error. Therefore, it’s important that you also carefully read the instructions before applying.
Safety
Last but not least, remember that waterproofing sprays contain chemicals. Even the best waterproofing sprays are going to have some chemicals in them, so it’s important that you read the label carefully to make sure they aren’t going to leave behind a strong odor – or worse, harm your skin.
Why You Need a Waterproofing Spray
Investing in a good water repellent spray is a good idea. Not only will it improve the longevity of your new gear, allowing you to wear or use it season after season, but it can also restore the water-repelling abilities of your older gear, too.
Plus, many waterproofing sprays offer additional benefits, too. Some have coatings that can last for up to a year, while others offer protection against UV rays. If these kinds of features matter to you, make sure you seek them out when purchasing your next bottle of waterproofing spray.
Our Top 3 Picks
Don’t have a lot of time? Here are our top three picks of the best waterproof sprays so you can get back out there sooner.
- Kiwi Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellent
- Grangers Clothing Waterproofer For Outerwear
- 303 High Tech Fabric Guard Trigger Sprayer
The Best Waterproofing Sprays to Keep You Warm and Protected:
1. Kiwi Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellent Spray
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably already heard of the Kiwi brand. This company is one of the best when it comes to waterproof spray for shoes as well as waterproof spray for other kinds of clothing, too.
A well-known brand, Kiwi offers a superb Camp Dry spray. This one can be used to revamp the water-resistant properties of your favorite jacket, or it can offer long-lasting protection to new items, too.
Designed for heavy-duty applications, this spray includes silicone and a variety of other ingredients. It’s designed with outdoor lovers in mind, consisting of a unique blend of ingredients that work in harmony to keep your gear dry.
Pros:
- Comes in an aerosol can for easy application
- Scent-free once dried
- Does not affect color, breathability, or flammability of a fabric
Cons:
- Not designed for everyday clothing with its heavy-duty formula
2. Grangers Waterproof Spray
Another reputable brand when it comes to water repellent sprays is Granger’s. Since 1937, this company has produced a variety of products specifically for outerwear and similar clothing. This spray can be used on any kind of fabric, including natural and synthetic ones.
With a scent-free, water-based formula, this water-repellant spray is both pleasant to use and environmentally friendly. It’s recommended by a variety of outerwear manufacturers, as it can be used on soft shell, down, fleece, and even Gore-Tex. It does not affect the color or scent of your clothes, either.
Pros:
- Recommended by top outerwear manufacturers
- Comes in a cost-effective bottle
- Environmentally-free formula does not have harsh chemicals
Cons:
- Bottle can be difficult to spray from
3. 303 Products High Tech Fabric Guard Sprayer
303 Fabric Guard is, without a doubt, one of the most popular and best waterproofing sprays on the market. It not only restores fabrics to their former vibrancy, but also guards against water saturation. Excellent for products that have been left out in the rain and lost some of their luster, this product has a unique chemical composition.
Not only can this spray work to repel water, but it can also keep oil-based liquids and other chemicals at bay. A single bottle goes a long way, making it a good choice for your dollar.
Pros:
- Protects against water saturation
- Can be used on all kinds of fabrics
- Unscented formula that doesn’t leave behind any marks
Cons:
- Must dry for at least six hours before use
4. Bickmore Waterproofing Spray For Leather
The name of this waterproofing spray really says it all – it “guards more!”. The bottle of this spray has fun packaging and promises heavy-duty value. Designed to safeguard all of your most precious outdoor gear, it can not only keep water away but also dirt and stains.
If you are looking for a waterproof spray for fabric of all kinds, this is the one. It can be used on just about any kind of fabric without ruining its integrity. It produces a protective layer that reduces any scuffs that can arise with daily use.
Pros:
- Does not reduce clothing’s breathability
- Has a non-aerosol applicator for easy application
- Protects against mud, water, and stains
Cons:
- Not much product inside the can
5. Nikwax TX Direct Spray-On Waterproofing
Nikwax TX Direct Spray-On Waterproofing Spray is one of the best if you need to get your old raingear back to its former level of waterproofing. This waterproofing spray can restore a water repellency without ruining a piece of clothing’s color or breathability, and is incredibly versatile – it can be applied to both the inside and outside of a garment.
With a unique protective layer that is both comprehensive and secure, this spray treats every single fiber of your clothing. After you apply this spray to your clothing, it does not need to be tumble-dried in order to cure. All you need to do is air-dry your garment!
Pros:
- Can be used on all kinds of synthetic fabrics
- Water-based formula is easy to use at home
- Environmentally-friendly formula is biodegradable
Cons:
- Odor can be strong immediately after you treat your clothes
6. Star Brite Waterproofing Marine Fabric Cleaning Supply
The Star Brite Waterproofing Spray has superior UV protection and water-repelling capabilities. This spray can be used on all kinds of outdoor textiles, with a vibrancy that protects it against all kinds of dullness and damage.
This unique product isn’t designed just to keep water at bay, but also to repel UV rays. It can be used on all kinds of outdoor gear, including tents, clothing, sail covers, patio covers, backpacks, and more.
Pros:
- Single bottle provides extensive amount of coverage
- Does not alter flammability, look, or feel of a fabric
- Restores color vibrancy
Cons:
- May be too harsh to use on some natural fibers
7. Scotchgard Outdoor Water Proof Spray For Shoes
Scotchgard is another top brand when it comes to water-repelling outdoor gear. A powerful blend of ingredients, this formula can be used on just about any type of outdoor gear with ease.
When you use this water shield, you will benefit from an added layer of protection against the elements. You can use less spray and enjoy a more long-lasting effect, plus it can be used on any kind of fabric. This includes suede, leather, cotton, polyester, nylon, and polypropylene. This means that you can use it on just about any kind of equipment or outerwear.
With a redesigned formula designed to last longer, you won’t have to worry about applying the Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield every time you head outside. Instead, you’ll just need to apply it once per season.
Pros:
- Efficient to use – only requires one application per season
- Does not compromise a material’s structural integrity
- Quick-drying formula
Cons:
- Not a lot of coverage per can
8. Atsko Silicone Water-Guard Spray
The Atsko Silicone Water-Guard is one of the most versatile waterproofing sprays on the market. It can easily be used on any kind of outdoor gear and wear, including footwear, clothing, camping equipment, and sports gear.
Water simply won’t be able to stick to a surface – it will simply glide right off. It contains silicone and is safe to use on a variety of materials. It does not affect the integrity of the object or garment, instead simply helping it repel water. You can use this spray frequently, as it is incredibly versatile.
Pros:
- Can be applied to just about any kind of fabric
- Easy to apply
- Can repair damaged waterproof objects back to their former water repellency
Cons:
- Takes up to 48 hours to dry and nearly three days to cure once applied
9. Rust-Oleum NeverWet Boot and Shoe Waterproof Spray Paint
You might recognize the Rust-Oleum name as a popular paint and stain brand, but Rust-Oleum also manufactures a fantastic boot and shoe spray known as NeverWet. This spray is best used on footwear, but you could also use it to waterproof other gear, too.
Free from silicones and other harmful substances, this spray can be applied to all kinds of fabrics, including canvas, leather, and suede. It’s designed to repel water as well as mud, dirt, ice, and other kinds of stains. With a clear appearance, this spray is healthy to use and has a scent-free application.
Pros:
- Scent-free and free from chemicals
- Repels all kinds of liquids and stains
- Can treat leather, suede, and other difficult to treat materials
Cons:
- Can take up to 48 hours to dry
10. Texsport Polyurethane Waterproof Spray for Tents & Backpacks
This waterproof seam sealer is the perfect choice for someone hoping to give their outerwear and outdoor gear some more protection against the weather. It can be used on any kind of synthetic fabric and while it isn’t designed to waterproof – instead, it simply seals seams – it also provides protection against UV-related fading.
With a user-friendly design, the Texsport Seam Sealer lets you wash and use your tent as usual. It doesn’t require extra hassle when it comes to keeping the protective layer intact.
Pros:
- Can be used on any synthetic outdoor material
- Odorless once dried
- Includes non-toxic ingredients
Cons:
- Can’t be used on natural fibers
11. Simple Shine Premium Water Repellent Spray and Stain Protector
This waterproofing spray is designed with designer goods in mind. It can easily guard against water damage, helping to keep any kind of fabric looking great. It’s safe to use on any garment, as it does not cause color fading, darkening, or any other kind of discoloration.
Simple Shine is unique because it can be used on leather, too. It applies clear and without any lingering residue. It prevents damage not only from water, but also dirt, salt, and oil.
Pros:
- Does not change color of garment
- Dries without a residue
- Comes with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Cons:
- Some customers complain about the spray bottle leaking
12. Dry Guy Outdoor Gear Waterproofing
This waterproofing spray is a liquid concentrate that can not only prevent your favorite outdoor fabrics from becoming saturated and faded, but can also improve and preserve their breathability.
With a coverage area of 300 square feet per bottle, this spray is truly one of the best.t although it has a slight odor, it will actively work to soften your fabrics. It can be used on all kinds of modern textiles and is environmentally friendly.
Pros:
- Improves breathability of clothes
- Large coverage area
- Softens your clothes
Cons:
- Causes some color change in your clothes
13. CRC MaryKate Fabric Waterproof Spray
Another one of the best waterproofing sprays for you to consider is this option by CRC. a premium-grade heavy-duty waterproofing solution, ti not only adds a waterproofing layer to new clothes but can restore the former repellency of old synthetic and cotton fibers, too.
With no added color or dyes, this spray can be used on clothing, convertible tops, boat covers, tents, footwear, and more. It’s perfect for use on marine-grade fabrics, too.
Pros:
- Comes in an economical size
- Can be used on synthetic fabrics and cotton
- Adds and restores water repellency to all kinds of fabric
Cons:
- Does not come with a spray applicator
Stay Dry with the 13 Best Waterproofing Sprays
When it comes to staying dry and comfortable on the trails, the best waterproofing spray can definitely make a huge difference. Not only will your gear and clothing stay dry, but you will too. A good waterproofing spray adds a new level of security and durability to your trip. Save time and money by investing in one of our top picks.
