Do horse blankets need to be re-waterproofed? A complete guide.

You bought a quality turnout blanket to keep your horse dry through rain and snow. But after a season or two, you notice something concerning: water isn't beading up and rolling off like it used to. Instead, it's soaking into the fabric, leaving your horse damp and uncomfortable.

The short answer is yes. Horse blankets absolutely need to be re-waterproofed periodically. No blanket stays waterproof forever, and understanding when and how to restore that protection can save you money while keeping your horse comfortable.

Why waterproofing fails over time

Even the best turnout blankets lose their water-repellent properties with use. This isn't a manufacturing defect. It is simply the nature of waterproof coatings and how they interact with the real world.

Several factors contribute to this gradual breakdown:

Washing takes a toll. Every time you clean your blanket, especially if you use regular laundry detergent, the waterproof coating degrades slightly. Harsh detergents strip away the protective layer that keeps water out. Even proper washing with specialized cleaners slowly wears down the treatment over time.

UV exposure weakens fabrics. Sunlight doesn't just fade colors. It breaks down the chemical bonds in waterproof coatings, making them less effective at repelling moisture.

Physical wear matters. When your horse rolls, scratches against fences, or simply moves around in the pasture, the fabric rubs and flexes. This mechanical stress gradually wears away the waterproof treatment, especially at high-friction points like the shoulders and along the spine.

Dirt, sweat, and ammonia accumulate. Body oils, sweat, and urine residue from your horse gradually break down waterproof coatings. These substances can actually wick moisture through the fabric if left unchecked.

Waterproof coatings are sacrificial layers designed to protect the underlying fabric. They wear out so your blanket doesn't have to. Even Kensington's winter turnouts, built with durable construction and backed by a lifetime guarantee, benefit from periodic re-waterproofing to maintain peak performance.

Signs your horse blanket needs re-waterproofing

Knowing when to re-waterproof is just as important as knowing how. Watch for these telltale indicators:

The bead test fails. The simplest check is to spray or pour water on your blanket's surface. If it beads up and rolls off, the waterproofing is working. If it soaks in or spreads across the fabric, it's time to re-proof.

Your horse has wet spots after rain. Check your horse's back after they've worn the blanket in wet weather. Dampness along the midline and croup (the high point of the hindquarters) indicates water is penetrating the fabric.

The blanket feels heavier after getting wet. A properly waterproofed blanket will shed water and remain relatively light even in downpours. If your blanket feels noticeably heavier after rain, it's absorbing moisture.

There's a musty smell. Trapped moisture leads to mildew and odor. If your blanket smells musty even when dry, water has been getting in and creating conditions for bacterial growth.

Dark patches appear where moisture soaks in. Visual inspection can reveal problems. Look for dark, discolored areas on the fabric after rain exposure. These spots indicate water absorption.

How often should you re-waterproof horse blankets?

The general rule among equestrian professionals and experienced horse owners is to re-waterproof at least once a year. But timing matters as much as frequency.

Spring is ideal. The best time to re-waterproof is in the spring, when you're cleaning and storing blankets for the off-season. This ensures they're ready to go when winter weather returns, and it protects them during storage.

Heavy use requires more frequent treatment. If your horse lives outside 24/7 or you wash blankets frequently, you might need to re-proof twice a year. Blankets used only occasionally may stretch to 18 months between treatments.

Climate affects longevity. Blankets used in wet, rainy climates lose waterproofing faster than those in dry, cold regions. UV exposure in sunny areas also accelerates coating breakdown.

For detailed cleaning and maintenance guidance, refer to Kensington's blanket care guide, which covers the full spectrum of proper blanket maintenance.

What you'll need to re-waterproof your blankets

Before you start, gather the right supplies. Using the wrong products can actually make things worse.

Cleaning supplies

• Specialized blanket wash: Nikwax Rug Wash, Orvus WA Paste, or Rambo Wash

• Alternative: Colorless mild dish soap (Dawn works in a pinch)

• Tools: Stiff brush for pre-cleaning, hose with gentle spray, mesh laundry bag

Waterproofing products

You have two main application methods to choose from:

Popular spray options:

• Schneiders BlockAide: $34.99 for 32 oz, treats 3-6 blankets, lasts 3x longer than competitors according to manufacturer claims

• Dry Guy Waterproofing Spray: $14.88 for 16 oz, treats 1-2 large blankets, PTFE/Teflon/silicone-free

Wash-in options:

• Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In: $15.70-$160.60 depending on size, PFAS-free since 1977

What NOT to use

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Regular laundry detergent (strips waterproof coatings)

• Fabric softeners (coat fibers and reduce breathability)

• Bleach (destroys fabric and coatings)

• Hot water (damages waterproof membranes)

• Power washers (blast away protective coatings)

Step-by-step guide to re-waterproofing horse blankets

We will break down the actual process. Take your time with each step. Rushing leads to poor results.

Step 1: Clean the blanket thoroughly

You cannot apply waterproofing to a dirty blanket. Residue blocks the treatment from bonding to fibers.

Start by removing loose dirt and hair with a stiff brush. Pay special attention to areas where mud cakes on, like along the bottom edge and around leg straps. Then flip the blanket and brush the interior lining to remove accumulated horse hair.

Once brushed, hose down the blanket with gentle water pressure. Avoid power washers. The high pressure can blast away the waterproof coating you're trying to preserve.

Wash using your specialized blanket cleaner on a gentle cycle with cold water, or hand wash in a large tub. If using a machine, place the blanket in a mesh laundry bag to contain straps and buckles.

Rinse completely. Any soap residue left behind will interfere with the waterproofing treatment. If your machine has an extra rinse option, use it.

Step 2: Dry completely

This step requires patience. Applying waterproofing to damp fabric leads to streaks, uneven coverage, and poor adhesion.

Hang your blanket on a fence, clothesline, or blanket bar in a well-ventilated area. Position it to allow air circulation on both sides. A sunny, breezy day works best.

The blanket must be completely dry before proceeding. Any residual moisture will compromise the treatment.

Step 3: Apply waterproofing treatment

For spray-on application:

Hang your dry blanket vertically. Shake the waterproofing spray well (contents often separate). Hold the bottle 6-12 inches away from the fabric surface.

Apply in smooth, overlapping passes, working systematically across the blanket. Pay special attention to seams, stitching, and high-wear areas like the shoulders and along the spine where water contact is heaviest.

Apply two light coats rather than one heavy coat. Let the first coat soak in for a few minutes before applying the second. This creates a more durable, even barrier.

For wash-in application:

Follow the product instructions for adding the waterproofing treatment to your washing machine's rinse cycle. This method treats the entire blanket evenly and is less labor-intensive than spraying.

Step 4: Let it cure

Allow the treated blanket to dry and cure for a full 24 hours. This curing period is essential for the waterproofing chemicals to bond properly with the fabric fibers.

Once dry, perform the water bead test before putting the blanket back into service. Spray water on the surface and verify it beads up and rolls off. If water still soaks in, apply another light coat to the affected areas and cure again.

Testing your waterproofing

Don't skip the testing phase. It's better to discover problems now than during a downpour when your horse is counting on protection.

The simple bead test: Lay the blanket flat and spray water across the surface. Watch how the water behaves. Properly treated fabric will show water forming beads that roll off. If water spreads out and darkens the fabric, the waterproofing needs improvement.

The trash can method (more rigorous): For a thorough test, find a large round trash can that simulates a horse's barrel. Place it on its side in a wheelbarrow, then cover the top area with flattened brown paper bags. These will show distinct watermarks if leakage occurs.

Center the blanket over the trash can and wait for a 24- to 48-hour rain period, or simulate with a sprinkler. Check the paper bags afterward. No water spots means your blanket is truly watertight.

If testing reveals problems, don't despair. Simply reapply waterproofing to the affected areas and test again. Sometimes high-wear zones need extra attention.

When to repair vs. replace your blanket

Re-waterproofing makes sense when your blanket is structurally sound but has lost water repellency. However, there comes a point when replacement is the smarter choice.

Re-waterproofing is worth it when:

• The fabric is intact with no major tears

• Seams are still strong

• The blanket fits well and functions properly

• You're looking at roughly $25-50 for treatment vs. $150-300 for a new quality blanket

Replace the blanket when:

• Large tears run along the spine or back where water makes direct contact

• The waterproof layer is permanently compromised (water soaks through even after multiple re-proofing attempts)

• Fabric shows significant degradation, cracking, or insulation breakdown

• Repair costs approach or exceed replacement cost

For minor repairs like replacing broken buckles or worn leg straps, replacement parts can extend the life of an otherwise sound blanket.

Quality matters here. Kensington's lifetime guarantee reflects our confidence in construction that, with proper maintenance, can serve your horse for many years.

Keep your horse dry with proper blanket maintenance

Re-waterproofing isn't complicated, but it does require attention to detail. The key points to remember:

• Clean and re-waterproof at least once a year, ideally in spring

• Always use specialized blanket wash, never regular detergent

• Test waterproofing after treatment with the bead test

• Know when to repair versus replace

Proper maintenance extends your blanket's lifespan significantly while ensuring your horse stays dry and comfortable through whatever weather comes your way. A dry horse is a warm horse, and that's worth the effort.

Looking for quality turnout blankets built to last? Explore Kensington's winter turnout collection, backed by over 70 years of experience shielding what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my horse blanket needs to be re-waterproofed?

Perform the bead test by spraying water on the fabric. If it beads up and rolls off, the waterproofing is working. If water soaks in or spreads, it's time to re-proof. Also watch for wet spots on your horse after rain, a heavier-feeling blanket when wet, or musty odors.

Can I use regular laundry detergent when I wash before re-waterproofing?

No. Regular detergents strip waterproof coatings. Use specialized blanket wash like Nikwax Rug Wash, Orvus WA Paste, or Rambo Wash. In a pinch, colorless mild dish soap works better than standard laundry detergent.

How long does re-waterproofing treatment last on horse blankets?

With proper care, a quality re-waterproofing treatment lasts about one year. Heavy use, frequent washing, or harsh weather conditions may require more frequent application. Some premium products claim to last 3x longer than standard sprays.

Is spray-on or wash-in waterproofing better for horse blankets?

Spray-on works best for targeted application on high-wear areas and allows you to focus on problem spots. Wash-in treats the entire blanket evenly and requires less labor. Choose based on your blanket's condition and your available time.

Can I re-waterproof a blanket with tears or holes?

Repair tears first using blanket repair tape or professional services. Re-waterproofing will help seal repaired areas, but it won't fix structural damage. If tears are large or along the spine where water pools, replacement may be more cost-effective.

What temperature water should I use when washing blankets before re-waterproofing?

Always use cold water. Hot water damages waterproof coatings and can shrink synthetic fabrics. Set your machine to a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize stress on seams and straps.