Nikwax rug proof - best application method?

Tiddlypom

Tiddlypom

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I've always used Nikwax rug proof on my Rambo lite turnout rugs. I sponge it on a clean, wet rug (as advised in the destructions), and tbh the results have been good.

I now have the option of applying the proofer in our new large capacity home washing machine (being careful to choose a day when the OH is out..). The rugs fit in the drum with room to spare. Is machine washing better/worse/the same as application by hand for effective proofing?

Or indeed method 3, hand wash, in which the rug is soaked in diluted rug proof for a couple of hours then rinsed off thoroughly.

Any advice would be most welcome :).
 
Firstly I've never been keen on the idea of using the machine one, I've read a number of posts that confirm unless you ensure your machine is absolutely clear of any previous powders ect it doesn't always work well (I think they say you have to run empty cycles first.

I've always used a big spray bottle (the sort that you pump to get pressure first and then you can spray it directly onto the rug in an even and consistent spray, I've yet to have a rug fail even in torrential downpours so seems to work very well.
 
Thanks, both. I can make sure beforehand that the machine is detergent free by cleaning out the dispenser, and then running a high temperature so-called 'hygiene wash'.

Just seems odd putting the whole rug through the proofing wash, rather than just treating the outer shell, which seems to be more logical. The washing machine method is less hassle, though :D.
 
Have never reproofed horse's clothes myself, but when doing my own, the washing machine method has always worked well. It's got to be less hassle than faffing around with sponges and spray bottles, surely?
 
Do not do it in the washing machine!!! Sponge or spray it on the outer, you can wash them in tech wash to clean but if you wash it in the proofer all you will achieve is a waterproof inside of the rug. Not breathable at all. I know the manufacturer states that you can use in a machine but I would always spray and apply by hand. I use this method for all outdoor gear, walking, skiing and rugs and it's works fine. Tumble dry on a low setting afterwards to bond the cover together and you'll be fine. I worked in an outdoor shop for years and this is the best method I've found.
 
Would also suggest spraying on. I washed a very smelly lightweight turnout last week and sprayed on Gold Label Universal Rug Proof the following day - it had a really good testing yesterday in steady rain for most of the day. Horse was lovely and dry and the rain was beading off the rug - very impressed.
 
I have always done mine in the machine without any problems but I am now thinking maybe I won't in future. My main reason is, the last time I did it the re proofer was all around my drum for weeks to come even after running an expensive cleaner through. By the time you add up all the costs it is just as cheap to send them away to be done. I think the spraying idea is a good one and may do that in future. I have only ever had one rug leak with nickwax so that's not bad going, it was a pretty old rug, but just did it again and it was fine and is still in use.
 
marmalade88 said:
Do not do it in the washing machine!!! Sponge or spray it on the outer, you can wash them in tech wash to clean but if you wash it in the proofer all you will achieve is a waterproof inside of the rug. Not breathable at all. I know the manufacturer states that you can use in a machine but I would always spray and apply by hand.
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Thanks, I agree that proofing the inside of the rug seems like a bad idea, but it seems to be what the professional rug cleaners do. Spraying the proofer on instead sounds good, it will surely drive the proofer into the shell better than if I just sponge it on. I will give it a go, I've got 6 - 8 rugs to deal with.

Thanks for all the responses.
 
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