- 1). Clean mud or dirt off the coat with cold water and a washcloth or sponge as soon as possible if the trench is soiled. Focus on the seams of the inner sleeves. Dirt is abrasive, and it can break or wear seaming if not removed.
- 2). Hang a wet waxed cotton trench in a well-ventilated room to dry for 24 hours. Refrain from putting the wet garment in a closet before it is thoroughly dry. Store dry coats in a closet.
- 3). Place the trench on a broad coat hanger when you hang or store it. The hanger will help the coat maintain the proper shape.
- 4). Monitor the condition of the coat to gauge its need for reproofing -- the topical treatment that maintains the chemical balance of the material. Check the surface for patches that appear dry, shiny or uneven in texture. Pay attention to the surface's response to water. If water beads on the surface of the trench, it has the appropriate amount of wax. If water penetrates the material or pools, it needs reproofing.
- 5). Apply reproofing cream to the trench coat at least once a year, or more, if warranted. Lay the dry coat on a flat surface. Apply blueberry-sized amounts of reproofing cream with a soft cotton cloth that does not leave lint. Rub in a circular motion to distribute the cream. Apply more cream to seams and worn areas. Heat the cream with a hair dryer to melt the wax, making it easier to apply evenly. Hang the coat in a well-ventilated room to air-dry overnight.
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