How to Make Your T-Shirt Waterproof

If you want to make your T-shirt waterproof, you can use the solutions listed in this guide to get the job done. Yes, there are quite a few useful methods to use, and I’ll tell you which one worked best for me.

People usually look for methods to waterproof outdoor gear such as boots, rain jackets, boat covers, and so on. They often focus on their outer garments.

But you can also make your T-shirt water-repellent.

Why should I wear waterproof T-shirts?

Waterproof T-shirts are not only liquid-proof but also stain-repellent. You can either buy a ready-made hydrophobic T-shirt or use a special solution to waterproof one that you already own.

As you can see, apart from the obvious main advantage of being liquid repellent, a waterproof T-shirt is also stain-proof.

This characteristic is extremely important when it comes to white T-shirts.

I’ve had tens of white tees that I really liked but had to trash them due to permanent stains.

Had I waterproofed them, I would not have had this problem.

How Do I Waterproof T-shirts?

Method 1: Use a waterproofing spray for cotton

Most T-shirts are generally made of cotton, while others, like gym or hiking T-shirts, are made of nylon or polyester.

In this guide, I’ll focus on cotton T-shirts only.

A good cotton waterproofing spray can make your T-shirt water-repellent while maintaining fabric breathability. The good news is that you can use these sprays for denim as well.

So, this solution works for both your cotton T-shirts and jeans.

Don’t forget to apply a coat of seam sealer on all of your T-shirt’s seams. Roll the sealer over the seams to ensure water can’t get inside through the seams.

So, if the question “Can you waterproof cotton?” was on your mind, the answer is ‘Yes’. Use a dedicated spray for cotton, and you’ll get the job done.

| Read more: Can I wash waterproof clothes?

Method 2: Use wax

The second method involves using wax and takes more time than the first one.

Grab a bar of wax, rub it on your T-shirt, and then let it dry.

This works pretty well, but if you want excellent results, use a hairdryer.

This method worked best for me, and it’s actually my go-to method whenever I need to make my T-shirts waterproof.

So, start by heating up the first half of your T-shirt using a hairdryer. Heat up the wax as well, but not too much. You want it to be soft, not liquid.

Now, rub the wax on the T-shirt in long strokes, making sure the strokes don’t overlap. Once you’ve applied this coat of wax, use your fingers to even it out.

During this phase, the wax may get cold and become a bit sticky. If this happens, apply heat to the respective area.

Repeat the process until your T-shirt has been coated in wax.

Now, apply heat to the entire surface of the T-shirt again to make sure that the wax has covered all the hard-to-reach areas. It’s time to let the T-shirt dry for a few days.

It may take up to 4 or 5 days for the wax to dry completely, depending on the thickness of the coat that you applied.

Excess wax will turn white, and you’ll usually find it around the seams.

Now, it’s time to go to the next step.

Use a clean shoeshine brush and brush off the excess wax. Don’t brush too hard; you only want to remove the excess wax, not the wax that you do need.

Keep in mind that wax may alter the color of your T-shirt.

You may sometimes get dark spots due to excess wax, but that shouldn’t be a problem if you prefer a distressed look.

By the way, you can also use wax to waterproof straw hats.

| Read more: Does Waterproof Also Mean Windproof?

Method 3: Use Grangers Clothing Wash and Repel detergent

While I haven’t personally used this method, I read that some have satisfactory results. So, all you need to do is put your t-shirts in the washing machine and add Grangers Clothing Wash and Repel detergent.

This product is specially formulated to restore the water-repellent coat of outdoor fabrics. It has a low impact on the environment, so that’s another advantage.

Although this detergent was primarily formulated for technical fabrics, many outdoor enthusiasts confirmed it also works for making T-shirts water repellent as well.

So, there you have three solutions on how to make your T-shirt waterproof. If you’ve used other methods, share your ideas with the community in the comments below.

| Read more:

Can you dye waterproof fabric?

Last updated in October 2021 to add additional information.