Best Waterproof Spray for Horse Blankets
After lots of use, it’s normal for your horse blankets to lose their waterproof protective coating. Thankfully, replacing the entire blanket isn’t your only option! Not only would constant replacement become costly, it’s incredibly wasteful, and you’re better off re-waterproofing your horse blankets instead of buying new ones.
The right waterproof spray for your horse blankets will be low odour, long-lasting, easy to apply product that you can find at most camping or tack stores. No blanket stays waterproof forever, but this article will help you maximize the longevity of your horse’s apparel.
Best Waterproof Spray for Horse Blankets
List of Best Products
- Eque-Proof Waterproofing Spray
- Dry Guy Waterproofing Products
- Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield
- KIWI Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellent
- Schneiders Spray On Blanket Re-Proofer
Best In-Wash Horse Blanket Waterproofing
- Nikwax Horse Blanket Cleaning and Waterproofing Rug Wash
- Nikwax Horse Blanket Cleaning and Waterproofing Rug Proof
What Should You Use to Waterproof Horse Blankets?
The product you choose is very important. There are two main types of waterproofing products, spray on ones and in-wash products. You want UV resistant, fabric protective products that will last in cold, wet weather.
Pay attention to the type of fabric the product is designed for; some are made for nylon, cotton, leather, etc. Other products are breathable, while some are not. You want to look for a breathable product that will work with the fabric of your horse blanket (usually a nylon blend).
Some equestrian brands and blanket manufacturers make products specifically formulated for horse blanket waterproofing, but if you can’t find those, check online or at your local camping and outdoor stores. They usually have heavy duty waterproofing sprays that work just as well as any horse-specific product.
When Should I Waterproof My Horse’s Blanket?
If you notice wetness seeping through the outer layer of your blanket or that it’s soaked through, you should re-waterproof it. You might also notice water droplets no longer roll off the outer layer of the blanket, which is an early sign that your blanket exterior is no longer water repellent.
Seasons with moderate weather are best, like late spring and early fall, either before or after the winter. You don’t want to try waterproofing horse blankets in below zero weather, so be sure you do it beforehand.
Can I Waterproof Horse Blankets Indoors?
Depending on the product you choose, you may have to do it outside. In-wash products can be used indoors in your washing machine, but any time you decide to use a spray on product, you should do it outside. Make sure that you use the product on a warm day to help it adhere to the fabric, and that your blanket is clean before starting.
If the blanket is dirty, the product won’t stick to the fabric as well and it won’t last. That being said, be mindful of household detergents as some can damage the fabric of your horse blanket, and remove the leg straps before washing.
The best thing you can do it apply multiple coats of your product of choice to ensure full coverage. If you have to do it indoors, try to do it in an open space (like a garage, or well-ventilated room), and wear a mask and gloves.
Using In-Wash Products on a Horse Blanket
These products don’t tend to work as well as spray on coatings, but they’re more convenient since they can be used indoors. If you have to use an in-wash waterproofing product on your blankets, apply the solution on a sponge and spread it on the blanket evenly. Based on the manufacturer instructions, you might need a few coats.
Usually a warm wash setting is best to set the protective coating, but always check the label. Most require that you hang the blanket to dry after applying the product.
Key Takeaways for Waterproofing Horse Blankets
Safety Tips and Must-Knows
- Use protective equipment like gloves and a mask.
- Always apply waterproof coating to clean blankets, being mindful of household detergents and never using fabric softener or the dryer. Always hang blankets to air dry.
- Apply use sprays outdoors whenever possible.
- Apply multiple coats for maximal coverage.
- Use wash-in products on a gentle cycle, following directions of the product.
- Ensure you read the instructions of your product. Different waterproofing products will set in different conditions; some need to dry in sunlight, while others are best dried in the shade.
- Test the water repellency by pouring some water on your blanket. The water should bead off, never soaking through the shell of the blanket, keeping your horse dry.
Still Don’t Feel Comfortable Doing it Yourself? That’s Okay!
Thankfully, most horse blanket repair and laundry services offer waterproofing services, too. If you contact local companies they should be able to help you, and if they can’t, they may offer you tips and tricks for doing it yourself.
More often than not though, they’ll be happy to help and it’ll be one less thing for you to do yourself. While it’s an expense, it’s still much cheaper than buying new turnout blankets every couple of years, and is very convenient if you don’t have a space to spray the blankets yourself, or to hang them to dry. Most blanket laundry services also have detergents specifically formulated for horse blankets, which won’t damage the fabric.
Conclusion
Hopefully this will help you understand how to waterproof horse blankets, and which products are best for the job! To summarize, use a specially formulated blanket wash on your horse’s blankets before spraying them with a waterproofing product every few years. You should be able to find the right products online or at camping and tack shops, and make sure you use spray-on products in well ventilated spaces. Don’t forget to read the instructions carefully as every product differs! Good luck!