Best Waterproofing Spray

A lot of products that start out waterproof don’t stay that way forever, and a lot of things we wish were waterproof are not. The good news is that there are lots of waterproofing sprays you can use to re or newly waterproof your possessions.

But what is the best waterproofing spray?

The answer to that question very much depends on the items you want to waterproof. For heavy fabrics, leather, and canvas, silicon is a good option. It’s very waterproof, hardwearing, and easy to apply. But, on the downside, it can take 48-72 hours to dry and cure.

Lighter water-repellent sprays are better for raincoats, suede and nubuck shoes and boots, and inside furniture. Some are also stain-resistant.

With so many options to choose from, we’ve tried and tested 12 of the most popular waterproofing products around so you can confidently buy the right one for your needs.

But remember, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter to make sure you prolong the life and do not accidentally ruin whatever it is you are treating!

Best Waterproofing Spray

1. 3M Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield

The Scotchgard fabric protector name is synonymous with waterproofing and stain protection. This heavy-duty product is designed to repel water, protect from stains, and extend the life of almost any fabric. It’s also very straightforward to use.

Key Features

• Waterproofs with a single application
• Safe for use on most materials, including cotton, leather, suede, polypropylene, nylon, and canvas
• Can be used indoors or out
• Dries odorless
• Approved by many manufacturers

Whether you want to stain-proof your new couch or waterproof a tent, you can use this versatile product to do it. Easy to use, just spray and leave to dry to create an invisible waterproof barrier in minutes.

Pros

• Proven, reliable product
• Long-lasting effect
• Very easy to use
• Widely available
• Well-priced

Cons

• Only available in aerosol cans

Scotchgard is a household name, and that’s because their products really work. Whatever you want to protect, be it from water or grubby stains, this product really does do it all!

2. Rust Oleum Never Wet

Even the best boots and shoes can lose their waterproofness. That doesn’t mean you have to replace them! Instead, use a treatment product like this boot waterproofing spray to breathe new life into your old footwear.

Key Features

• Easy spray-on application
• Repels water, ice, mud, and stains
• Suitable for use on most types of shoes, including leather, suede, nubuck, canvas, and cotton
• Keeps moisture out while allowing shoes to breathe
• Invisible protection against moisture

This product is super-easy to use. Just hold the bottle around 8-12” from the surface and spray liberally. Reapply seasonally as the water repellency diminishes over time.

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Enough product to treat several pairs of shoes several times
• Does not affect the appearance of the material being treated
• Protects shoes and boots from water and stains

Cons

• Must be reapplied – not a permanent waterproof layer
• Needs to be used in a well-ventilated space

If you want to re-waterproof your shoes and boots or maybe waterproof a pair of shoes that weren’t waterproof in the first place, this could be the product you need. Easy to use, and with an instant effect, it will protect your footwear from damaging moisture.

3. Nikwax TX Direct

A lot of waterproofing products are designed for just one type of material. Nikwax TX direct can be used on lots of different materials, making it ideal for reproofing almost anything, from jackets to tents to shoes. It’s also an excellent spray for jackets.

Key Features

• Water-based and biodegradable
• Free from colors and fragrances
• Recommended for technical materials including ski jackets, raincoats, and synthetic sleeping bags
• Recommended by top activewear manufacturers, including Patagonia, North Face, Columbia, and Gore-Tex
• Spray-on application
• Breathable

Nikwax has been making waterproofing products since 1977 when Nick Brown first produced a type of wax for waterproofing walking boots. Nick’s Wax soon become Nikwax, one of the most popular waterproofing brands in the world. This product is a market leader in waterproofing sprays.

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Environmentally friendly
• Waterproof and breathable
• Can be used on a wide range of materials, clothing, and equipment

Cons

• Quite expensive

Outdoor gear is often expensive, so it’s worth paying a little more for a waterproofing product that works and is approved by the top outdoor gear manufacturers. There are cheaper sprays, but Nikwax TX Direct is arguably the best waterproof spray for fabric.

4. 303 Fabric Guard

It’s amazing how many household and outdoor items need or would benefit from waterproofing. Outdoor furniture upholstery, umbrellas, shoes, boots, sunshades, and awnings… With 303 Products Fabric Guard, you can treat almost any material that needs to be waterproof.

Key Features

• Water and stain repellent
• Easy to use spray
• Increases colorfastness
• Suitable for natural and synthetic fabrics
• Breathable

You can use this waterproof spray for fabric on almost any item you want. It’s so easy to use; just spray it on and allow it to dry. In minutes, your fabric will be waterproof. It’s ideal for outdoor use but can be used indoors too. It’s a very versatile product.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Available in a wide range of sizes
• Well-riced
• Versatile

Cons

• Flammable until it dries
• Quite noxious

This fabric waterproofing spray needs to be used outdoors and in a well-ventilated area because it could be dangerous if inhaled. Apart from that not uncommon issue, this is a very good product that delivers reliable waterproofing results.

5. Scotchgard Water and Sun Shield

It’s not just water that can damage your fabrics; ultra-violet light can too. UV light will weaken many materials, shortening their lifespan and degrading water repellency. This product from Scotchgard is the ultimate weather proofer because it protects against both sun and water damage.

Key Features

• Blocks UVA and UVB light to protect from sun damage and color fading
• Highly waterproof
• One-step application
• Odor-free when dry
• Ideal for use on patio furniture, awnings, hammocks, boat and spa covers, tarps, flags, umbrellas, and BBQ covers
• Can be used on almost any type of material

This product is a must for any outdoor fabric. Sun exposure can fade colors and degrade the material, and water damage can lead to rot. Protect all your outdoor fabrics with this versatile water repellent spray with a built-in UV shield.

Pros

• Ideal for all outdoor fabrics
• Easy to apply
• Long-lasting protection
• Provides a complete weatherproofing solution for all your outdoor possessions

Cons

• Only available in aerosol cans
• Not recommended for indoor use

Don’t leave your outdoor furniture exposed to the elements! Protect it from rain and from the sun with this one, easy to use product. Not only will it protect from water damage, but it will also stop the sun bleaching the colors or making whites turn yellow.

6. Star Brite

If most waterproofing products have a drawback, it is that they’re only available in small bottles or cans. That’s ok if you want to treat a single jacket or a pair of boots, but what if you’re going to waterproof a large sunshade awning, a tent, a tarp, and a boat cover all at the same time. Sold by the gallon, Star Brite Waterproofing Liquid is the solution.

Key Features

• Provides protection from water, stains, and ultraviolet light
• Can be used on new and old fabrics
• Made in the USA
• Suitable for use on most fabrics, including natural and manmade
• Can be applied using a sponge, brush, or spray (not supplied)
• Does not affect breathability, color, texture, or odor of material being treated

This product is very easy to use. Just apply it to the material you want to treat with a sponge, brush, or spray. Leave to dry for a few minutes, and then the fabric is protected. It’s long-lasting, so you should only need to reapply seasonally.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Suitable for a wide range of fabrics and products
• Can be diluted with denatured alcohol (50/50) to make it last even longer

Cons

• Not suitable for use with laminated fabrics
• Spray not provided

Apart from needing a spray, brush, or sponge to use this product, it’s super easy to work with and produces reliable results. Whether you want to waterproof a canvas sunshade or a soft-top car roof, this product can do it. And, as a bonus, it provides a good level of UV protection too.

7. Atsko Silicone Water-Guard

A lot of waterproofing sprays are less waterproof and more water-resistant, and there is a big difference. Water-resistance will eventually let water in after a prolonged downpour of rain, for example. This silicone spray forms a waterproof barrier that won’t let any moisture in. As such, it’s a REAL waterproofing product.

Key Features

• Long-lasting waterproof protection
• Can be used on clothing and footwear as well as almost any other fabric
• Suitable for use on tents, awnings, umbrellas, etc.
• Truly water repellent, and not just water-resistant
• Allows the treated material to breathe

This is a serious product for anyone that needs strong protection from the elements. If you live somewhere rainy or intend to treat things that are left out in the rain for months at a time, this is the product for you.

Pros

• Versatile product
• Long-lasting effect
• Very waterproof
• Also resistant to UV light

Cons

• Takes 24 hours to dry, and 72 hours to cure
• Only available in small cans

The main disadvantage of this product is that it takes a long time to develop its full waterproofing potential – three days. That means you’ll need to apply it well in advance of the arrival of any rain. Apart from that, if you want maximum waterproofing, this is the product to choose.

8. Kiwi Boot Protector

Kiwi is a well-known manufacturer of shoe and boot polishes. This silicon-based boot treatment is ideal for keeping walking and hunting boots waterproof while protecting the material and keeping it supple. Using it should add years to the life of your boots.

Key Features

• Designed for use on boots and shoes
• Colorless
• Bonds to the leather and other materials to provide a waterproof shield
• Breathable
• Odorless when dry
• Easy to use spray

To use this product, simply spray it onto your dry boots or shoes and leave to cure – typically about 24-48 hours. You can apply a second coat within four hours of the first for maximum waterproofness.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Designed specifically for use on boots and shoes
• Well-priced
• Very waterproof

Cons

• Takes a long time to cure

If you want your boots to be waterproof for tomorrow’s big hike, this is not the product for you. It takes up to 48 hours to cure, and, before that time, your boots won’t be waterproof. But, if you can prep your footwear well in advance, this stuff is a great way to make sure your feet stray dry, whatever the weather.

9. Kiwi Camp Dry Heavy Duty

Kiwi is best known for its shoe care products – which are great! So, it’s a safe bet to say this outdoor, general-purpose waterproofing spray will work well too. Use it on tents, awnings, boat covers, sunshades, and any other outdoor material you want to protect from water.

Key Features

• Silicon-based spray for long-lasting waterproofing
• Can be used on outdoor gear, furniture, and footwear too
• Easy to use
• Odorless when dry

This heavy-duty product is the ideal waterproofing spray for tent awnings. It’s also a great canvas protector and can be used to waterproof leather. In short, whatever you need to waterproof and protect, this spray has got you covered.

Pros

• Versatile product – can be used on most fabrics
• Long-lasting protection
• Silicon bonds to the material to provide a high level of waterproofing

Cons

• Takes 24-48 hours to cure

While silicon sprays provide the best level of waterproofing, they also take the longest to dry and cure, and we’re talking days and not just hours. That means you’ll need to plan ahead and make sure you finish your waterproofing project a few days before the rains come. That small inconvenience aside, this is a handy and versatile waterproofing spray.

10. Bickmore Gard More

Leather has the potential to last for many years, as does suede and nubuck. But, these robust materials are also prone to water damage, and if they are stained, they can lose their natural beauty. Keep your leatherwear looking and feeling like new with this leather protector spray.

Key Features

• Protects against water, stains, cracking, and scuffing
• Conditions and softens as it protects
• Breathable
• Suitable for a wide range of products, including footwear, coats and jackets, gloves, luggage, upholstery, and furniture
• Made in the USA
• Fast-drying formula

Bickmore has been making leather and leather-care products since 1882, so it’s safe to say that they know what they are doing. This easy to use spray will keep any leather item looking good for years to come. Reapply regularly for best results.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Suitable for all types of leather
• Won’t change the color of the item being treated
• Odorless when dry

Cons

• Only available in small 5 oz. cans

If you just want to waterproof a pair of shoes or two, 5 oz. of this product should be enough. But, if you’ve got a full-length leather duster or want to treat your riding tack, you’re going to need to buy in bulk. That small issue aside, if you want to waterproof leather, this product is well worth considering.

11. Grangers Clothing Wash

Most waterproofing products are sprays that form a barrier on the outside of the material you are treating. But what if you need to wash that item, such as a walking jacket or ski pants? This easy to use product is the solution to your waterproofing woes as it treats your clothes as you wash them.

Key Features

• Water-based
• Environmentally friendly
• Waterproofs as it cleans
• Restores waterproofness while maintaining breathability
• Odorless
• Does not affect the color of the garment being washed

To use this product, just add two capfuls to your washing machine and then run for a full cycle. Lightly tumble dry to activate, and your clothes are waterproof! There are no extra sprays to use; it really is that simple.

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Cost-effective
• Suitable for use with Gore-Tex and other technical fabrics
• Ideal for use with active outdoor wear
• Approved by a long list of outdoor manufacturers

Cons

• Clothes need to be tumble dried after washing to fully waterproof

A lot easier to use than sprays, this product washes, and waterproofs all at the same time. Yes, you will need to finish off your garment in a tumble dryer, but that’s a small price to pay for a good level of waterproofing without having to resort to messy, smelly sprays.

12. Nikwax Cotton Proof

While you can use most waterproofing sprays on a wide range of materials, if you want to treat natural fabrics like cotton and canvas, you may prefer to use a specialist product. Nikwax Cotton Proof is perfect for those types of materials.

Key Features

• Made for natural fabrics, including cotton, denim, canvas, linen, felt, and even some wools
• Wash-in formulation – not a spray
• Water repellent and breathable
• No scents or colors
• Cleans and waterproofs at the same time

This product is very straightforward to use. Just pop the garment you want to treat in the washing machine, add a measure of the product, and then leave it to work its magic. There’s no mess and no fuss! Just air dry or tumble dry your garments, and they’ll be water-repellent.

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Can also be used for handwashing
• Does not affect texture, odor, color, or breathability

Cons

• Each treatment uses a lot of liquid

A 10 oz. bottle of this product is enough to treat two or three jackets. So, if you want to waterproof your entire outdoor wardrobe, you’d better stock up! That said, this product has a long-lasting effect, so you won’t need to re-treat for some time.

Bottom Line

Whatever you want to waterproof, there is a spray that will do it. From light, almost instant-acting sprays designed for technical and high-performance clothing to silicon that takes longer to dry and cure but is so waterproof it won’t let a drop of water in.

Which one is right for you?

Of course, that depends on what you want to waterproof.

Breathable materials like Gore-Tex need to be treated with care, and they are easily damaged. A light spray is best for things like walking and skiing jackets, as well as lightweight tent awnings and flysheets.

In contrast, heavy canvas, thick cotton, and other robust materials may be better treated with silicon. It’s heavier, takes longer to dry, but it’s also much more waterproof and longer-lasting.

You will also need to use different water-proofers for boots and shoes compared to jackets.

But, providing you follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, whatever you treat will last longer if you waterproof it regularly, even if keeping water out is not your primary concern.

Water, and its best buddy, sunshine, can damage and weaken even the strongest of fabrics, so if you want your sunshade or hammock to last season after season, you’d better waterproof that too!

Using any of the products in this review will ensure you have the best waterproofing spray for whatever you need to treat.