Waxed cotton is cotton that is impregnated with paraffin at the weaving stage, and the finished material is re-treated with wax. Such procedures make the fabric waterproof and not blown by cold winds. It becomes stiffer and holds its shape better.
The history of fabric creation goes back centuries. Back in the 15th century, sailors tried to give water-repellent properties to fabric. They lubricated their canvas sails with oil and fish oil. Since the 18th century, sails made of canvas were replaced with linen, which were lighter, and they began to be treated with linseed oil.
In 1850, Egyptian cotton impregnated with linseed oil began to be used for this purpose. This option was better, but still the material remained heavy and rough. The development and search for the ideal fabric to protect against water and wind continued.
Since the early 30s of the 20th century, Barbour has developed a lightweight cotton fabric that is pleasant to the touch and meets all the required parameters.This made it possible to use waxed fabric in outerwear, giving it protective properties.
Barbour produces clothing made from five types of waxed cotton:
- Soft waxed cotton for everyday wear (6 or 8 oz weight).
- Fleecy (8 oz density).
- Waxed cotton for maximum protection. It is the most popular (6 oz density).
- Lightweight cotton used for walking jackets (4 oz).
- Heavy waxed cotton - for fishing and hunting (weight 8 oz and above).
Today, waxed clothing has become an element of style. It's not cheap. They make raincoats, jackets, jeans, backpacks, bags, covers, and hats from waxed cotton. The fabric is dense, has increased resistance to various atmospheric influences and is very attractive in appearance. Clothes made from this material are worn with pleasure by members of royal families and ordinary people.
Our youth are very fond of waxed jeans - what kind of jeans are they and how to care for them?
These are jeans made from waxed cotton. Usually produced in one color. Colors can be very diverse. They are distinguished by a peculiar matte shine that shimmers in daylight. In addition to beauty, such jeans also have water-repellent qualities, dirt-repellent properties, and protect well from wind and any weather.
Compared to regular jeans, the fabric on them is softer and thinner.
How to care for waxed jeans
- Waxed jeans cannot be washed in a washing machine; the impregnation will simply wash off. Since the product is made of dirt-repellent material, it will be enough to simply wipe the dirty areas with a damp cloth. You can use special products sold in stores to care for such products.
- If creases have formed on your jeans, direct a stream of warm air from a hair dryer to this area.
- You can restore damaged waxing by using wax and a hair dryer.
You need to heat the wax and jeans with a hairdryer.
Apply wax to damaged areas.
Warm this area again with a hairdryer and carefully level it with your hands.
Leave for a day to dry.
Waxed cotton is an interesting alternative to leather (natural and artificial).
Thanks to its properties:
- light weight;
- good breathability;
- waterproof;
- wind resistance;
- good heat retention.
This fabric has firmly entered our lives and has gained popularity both among supporters of the classic style, and among bikers and informals.