Agriculture is an industry often associated with strong smells. This includes everything from fertiliser to chemicals and all kinds of animals. It’s something to get used to, but it doesn’t mean ignoring some smells, particularly from waterproofs. We want to have a closer look here specifically at raincoats. There is a risk they can start to smell if you don’t look after them properly. Worse, it could damage them.

Why do they start to smell?

Raincoats, whether they are thin jackets for light showers or thick coats for downpours, have to put up with a lot. They have a continuous cycle getting wet and drying off. As a result, it is easy for smells to develop. This is especially likely if you don’t dry them properly each time. For example, if you leave them crumpled or piled up with other clothes, it can lock in the moisture and create that damp smell.

Another issue is the jackets have to deal with sweat and body oils. They accumulate inside with each wear. If you’re doing anything strenuous and sweating more, such as farming, it gets worse. This can become bad smells if you don’t wash and clean the raincoats.

Finally, storing coats incorrectly can lead to smells. The UK is famous for the bad weather and we generally need different waterproofs for specific seasons. This includes thin light garments for spring and summer plus thicker ones for autumn and winter. If you put them away incorrectly after use, including cramming them in a cupboard or wardrobe when they are still damp, they will probably be smelly when you take them back out in the future.

What to do?

Taking care of your raincoats properly is one of the best ways to reduce the chance of bad smells. Start by ensuring you dry them fully after every wear. Hang them in an open space with good ventilation. Make sure they aren’t hemmed in by other coats or it can lock in moisture.

Cleaning and good upkeep is very important for all kinds of waterproofs. It will help them to last longer and reduce the chance of bad smells. It’s crucial to check the manufacturer guidelines for washing. If you can put them in a washing machine, ensure you use the right settings. Even more importantly, make sure you select a suitable detergent or cleaner to protect the waterproof coating.

After washing, you must dry the garments properly. Air drying is generally best, but make sure they can dry relatively quickly. Some may be able to go in a tumble dryer, but again it is vital to check manufacturer guidelines.

When you put raincoats away, make sure they are dry before you store them. If you’re hanging them in a cupboard or wardrobe, it’s a good idea to ensure there is good ventilation. You may even want to invest in a dehumidifier to prevent moisture problems; it can help reduce the chance of any clothes in the wardrobe developing a musty smell.

Talk to us about waterproofs

JS Hubbuck Ltd provides a great selection of products to help people in various weathers. We have jackets, footwear, and more, perfect for farming, hiking, shooting, and other activities. Clients can shop with us and get help to find the perfect garments for any needs.

So, if you want some help choosing waterproofs, get in touch today. We can discuss materials, sizing, and more.