Raincoats

I find that my raincoat is really more than just a raincoat.  It has become this multi-functional item in my wardrobe that also works well on cool days and for a nice evening out.  I actually have two, but my favorite one is a knee length traditional black London Fog coat.  But I’ve seen, and actually have been tempted to purchase, more trendy options.  Today’s raincoats come in a variety of fabrics and colors and often sport special trims like fur and suede.

Your raincoat, just like any other garment, has special cleaning needs too.  While some raincoats can be laundered at home, others must be dry-cleaned.  Before cleaning your raincoat, be sure to read the manufacturer’s care label.  Here are a couple more things to keep in mind with regards to your raincoat:

·         Most traditional raincoats are made of tightly woven smooth cotton or cotton blend fabrics.  Brushed cotton is sometimes used to create a softer, more natural look.  This fabric tends to show abrasion more readily during wear than the more traditional options. If you have a brushed cotton raincoat, keep an eye on areas around the collar, cuffs, elbows, and seams as they may become chafed or develop light areas with continued use.  The wear may appear more prominently on darker color coats.

·         Waterproofing and water repellent finishes are not the same thing.  Raincoats that go through the waterproofing process during manufacturer get a rubber coating applied to the reverse side of the coat.  Water repellent coats receive a finish on the outside of the coat.  Over time this finish gets weak and needs to be reapplied, and A Cleaner World can actually reapply water repellent for you.

·         Rainwear is often made more fashionable by treating the outer fabric with urethane coating, giving the garment a very smooth, slick leather-like appearance. These coatings are often hard to distinguish from real leather unless extensive testing is done.

·         Always make sure your raincoat is completely dry before putting it away.  Wet or damp clothes that are put away may mold.  Clothes made of cotton or other organic materials make great food sources for mold and mildew to live on.