{"id":5756,"date":"2023-09-01T06:05:00","date_gmt":"2023-09-01T06:05:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/?p=5756"},"modified":"2023-07-20T10:30:15","modified_gmt":"2023-07-20T10:30:15","slug":"should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/","title":{"rendered":"Should I Wash Waterproof Fabric Before Sewing?"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/waterproof-outdoor-oxford-pu-fabric\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-5764 \" src=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/4-3-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"Should I Wash Waterproof Fabric Before Sewing?\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/4-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/4-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/4-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/4-3.jpg 1120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Should I Wash Waterproof Fabric Before Sewing?&#8221; is a question we get a lot and for good reasons.<\/p>\n<p>In this blog post, we will answer that question and explain why.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_62 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#What_are_Waterproof_Fabrics\" title=\"What are Waterproof Fabrics?\">What are Waterproof Fabrics?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Should_I_Wash_Waterproof_Fabric_Before_Sewing\" title=\"Should I Wash Waterproof Fabric Before Sewing?\">Should I Wash Waterproof Fabric Before Sewing?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Removal_of_Chemicals\" title=\"Removal of Chemicals\">Removal of Chemicals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Pre-Shrinking\" title=\"Pre-Shrinking\">Pre-Shrinking<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Precautions_when_Washing\" title=\"Precautions when Washing\">Precautions when Washing<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Manufacturers_Instructions\" title=\"Manufacturer&#8217;s Instructions\">Manufacturer&#8217;s Instructions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Use_Gentle_Detergents\" title=\"Use Gentle Detergents\">Use Gentle Detergents<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Gentle_Washing_Cycle\" title=\"Gentle Washing Cycle\">Gentle Washing Cycle<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/should-i-wash-waterproof-fabric-before-sewing\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_Waterproof_Fabrics\"><\/span><strong>What are Waterproof Fabrics?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Waterproof fabrics are textiles that have the incredible ability to repel water and keep you dry, no matter the weather. They are specially designed to protect you and your belongings from moisture in various situations.<\/p>\n<p>The design of waterproof materials holds the key to their effectiveness! These fabric are treated or coated by manufacturers with unique materials that create a strong water barrier.<\/p>\n<p>Waterproofing involves covering a fabric with a layer that prevents water molecules from penetrating while yet enabling air and moisture vapour to escape. This implies that you keep dry without experiencing internal suffocation.<\/p>\n<p>Do you want to know more about Waterproof Fabrics? Read our blog post <a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/what-is-waterproof-fabric\/\">&#8220;What Is Waterproof Fabric?&#8221;<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/water-repellent-printed-outdoor-upholstery-fabric-abstract-floral\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-5763 \" src=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/3-4-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/3-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/3-4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/3-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/3-4.jpg 1120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h1 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_I_Wash_Waterproof_Fabric_Before_Sewing\"><\/span>Should I Wash Waterproof Fabric Before Sewing?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Yes, it is generally recommended to wash waterproof fabric before sewing as it serves several purposes and can greatly contribute to the success of your sewing project. Here is why:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Removal_of_Chemicals\"><\/span>Removal of Chemicals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Waterproof fabrics often undergo a manufacturing process that involves the use of chemicals and washing them, helps to remove any residual chemicals that may be present.<\/p>\n<p>This step is particularly important if you have sensitive skin or allergies as it minimizes the risk of skin irritation.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pre-Shrinking\"><\/span><strong>Pre-Shrinking<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Washing the fabric before sewing helps to pre-shrink it.<\/p>\n<p>Why is this important? Because if the fabric is made from natural fibers such as cotton or linen, as they have a tendency to shrink when washed.<\/p>\n<p>The goal is to ensure that your finished project will maintain its shape and size even after subsequent washes.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/waterproof-outdoor-oxford-pu-fabric\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-5765 \" src=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/5-2-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/5-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/5-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/5-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/5-2.jpg 1120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Precautions_when_Washing\"><\/span>Precautions when Washing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Manufacturers_Instructions\"><\/span>Manufacturer&#8217;s Instructions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Always refer to the manufacturer&#8217;s guidelines or contact the shop you have bought the fabrics from, on washing and caring for the specific waterproof fabric you are using.<\/p>\n<p>Having these instructions ensures the fabric&#8217;s performance.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Gentle_Detergents\"><\/span>Use Gentle Detergents<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Use mild detergents that do not contain harsh chemicals or additives and completely avoid using bleach, fabric softeners, or strong detergents, as they will damage the fabric&#8217;s waterproof coating.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gentle_Washing_Cycle\"><\/span>Gentle Washing Cycle<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Choose a gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine to minimize any potential damage to the fabric.<\/p>\n<p>Also important, try to wash the fabric in cold water to avoid weakening the waterproof coating.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>We advise everyone to wash waterproof fabric before sewing even if it isn&#8217;t mandatory, as it offers significant benefits.<\/p>\n<p>Washing removes chemicals, softens the fabric, and allows you to test its durability, but if you do so, please, it is essential to follow the manufacturer&#8217;s guidelines and take precautions to maintain the fabric&#8217;s waterproofing properties.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div style=\"border: 2px solid #000; border-radius: 5px; padding: 10px;\">\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/is-polyester-waterproof\/\">Is Polyester Waterproof?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/most-stretchable-waterproof-fabrics\/\">Most Stretchable Waterproof Fabrics<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/what-is-waterproof-fabric\/\">What is Waterproof Fabric?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/guide-to-making-your-own-gear\/\">Guide to Making Your Own Gear<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Visit us at <a href=\"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/\">UK Fabrics Online.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you have any questions, email us or leave a comment here.<\/p>\n<p>Hope you enjoy this one.<\/p>\n<p>Thank you!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp; &#8220;Should I Wash Waterproof Fabric Before Sewing?&#8221; is a question we get a lot and for good reasons. In this blog post, we will answer that question and explain why. &nbsp; &nbsp; What are Waterproof Fabrics? &nbsp; Waterproof fabrics are textiles that have the incredible ability to repel water and keep you dry, no [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":5762,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[29,102,103,14],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5756"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5756"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5756\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5767,"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5756\/revisions\/5767"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5762"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5756"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5756"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ukfabricsonline.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5756"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}