Quality horse blankets can last upward of 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance, and re-waterproofing is one of those. Re-waterproofing a blanket will save you money as you won’t have to buy a new blanket as quickly; the average lifespan of a blanket not maintained property could last five years as a maximum. Once a year, usually at the beginning or end of winter, wash your blanket and re-waterproof it. A quality re-waterproofing treatment should last one year. Below are the steps for re-waterproofing your blanket.
Steps for Re-Waterproofing Your Winter Horse Blanket
The steps for how to re-waterproof your waterproof turnout blanket are easy! If you use a cleaning service for your blankets, many will throw in waterproofing with their charge. But for the many of us who don’t, it is a foolproof method. Wash your blanket and dry it thoroughly in the sun. (Waterproof blankets should not be put in the dryer, as they can harm the fabric). Once dried, there are two methods to re-waterproof your horse blanket.
The steps for both ethods are listed below:
Steps for Spray Re-Waterproofing your Horse Blanket:
- Use the blanket waterproofing spray in a well-ventilated area.
- While not necessary, gloves will keep any dripping off your hands, and a mask will keep the spray away from your face.
- Spray the blanket all over the outside. Make sure you get every part of the horse blanket.
- Leave the blanket to dry for 24 hours.
- It’s recommended to do multiple coats for the most effective re-waterproofing. Repeat the spraying and 24-hour drying multiple times if you can.
- Once you finish all the coats, test the waterproof effectiveness by pouring water on the horse blanket. Do this while the blanket is laid out flat. Your blanket is ready if the water beads up and stays that way for a few minutes. Otherwise, do another coat of the spray using the method listed.
Steps for Re-Waterproofing Your Horse Blanket Using a Wash-In Solution:
- Hand Washing Method: sponge the re-waterproofing solution evenly onto your freshly washed blanket. You may need a few coats for this.
- Washing Machine: After your blanket has been washed, start a new cycle, this time on a warm wash cycle/synthetic setting. Pour the solution in and press start. You may need to do a rinse cycle as well. Then hang up your blanket to dry.
- Using the water test works here too! Try it to make sure your horse blanket is completely re-waterproofed.
7 Horse Blanket Care Products for Washing and Waterproofing
Schnieders carries various horse blanket care products for washing and waterproofing in our horse blanket accessories section. Below are seven great products we carry to keep your blanket in great condition season after season.
- Schneiders Blanket Wash
- Schnieders Odor Eliminator
- Nikwax Rug Wash
- Schneiders Spray on Blanket Re-Proofer
- Nikwax TX Direct Spray On
- Revivex Instant Waterproofing
- Nikwax Synthetic Rug Proof
An extra-strength formula that is environmentally friendly, phosphate-free, and biodegradable. It will not compromise waterproofing either. Schneiders Blanket Wash is a detergent that does it all in any water temperature; it even brightens colors.
Schneiders Odor Eliminator's patented formula will keep your blanket clean and rid them of urine smells, mold, mildew, and more. It’s environmentally safe and can be used as a wash-in or spray-on.
Nikwax Rug Wash cleans your blankets while extending the life of your horse blanket through water repellency, insulation, and breathability.
Schneiders Spray on Blanket Re-Proofer extends the life of your waterproof blankets by revitalizing water repellency, causing water to bead and run off. A 32oz bottle treats four average-sized blankets.
Nikwax TX Direct Spray On is easy to use for all textile garments and equipment with its water-based waterproofing formula. It overcomes the problem of “wetting out” while helping the horse blanket's breathability.
Revivex Instant Waterproofing instantly revitalizes waterproofing with an easy-to-use spray. The silicone-free formula is non-sticky, repels water, dirt, and stains, and is safe for leather, suede, and horse blankets.
Nikwax Synthetic Rug Proof is a wash-in solution for horse blankets and rugs that adds repellency and revives breathability to blankets. It’s perfect for all canvas, synthetic, and cotton fabrics.
Waterproofing your horse blanket is an easy way to protect your investment in horse blankets for years to come. It’s an easy annual process that will have your horse dry and happy in all kinds of wet weather.
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