Waterproofing a Carradice bag

[tyred]

I have several Carradice bags of various ages, all except one are waterproof, the other seems to allow water to seep through the fabric.

I assume I can treat it with some form of wax but which is best and how should I apply it?

 

[shouldbeinbed]

I use a spray on waterproofer from Decathlon and routinely spray a new bag. Seems to be effective and long lasting.

Edit: Fabsil


Clothing tends to get the Nikwax (? Sp) pre wash cleaner then wash in waterproofer

 

[mrandmrspoves]

The old style Carradice saddlebags made from Duck cloth were pretty waterproof as the fabric swells when damp - making it more resistant to water ingress. You can use any fabric water proofer such as Nikwax. A camping shop will have some suitable products - but you may well be able to buy cheaper elsewhere or even on line.

 

[raleighnut]

If cotton 'duck' is dry it will leak (a bit like a canvas tent will) it needs to become damp so the fibres swell in order to become waterproof.

 

[RMurphy195]

Tried Fabsil? It's for tents, so tends to come in larger quantities and lower prices than some other products. I use it on, among other things, the roof on my convertible, works well and keeps working for longer than anything else I have tried.

 

[jefmcg]

Carradice sells a product. Instructions and link here

I've not had to buy it yet, so not an endorsement.

 

[Smurfy]

Surely it is still worth waterproofing, even if the fibres swell to prevent water ingress, as a wet fabric will get heavier.

 

[mrandmrspoves]

Surely it is still worth waterproofing, even if the fibres swell to prevent water ingress, as a wet fabric will get heavier.

Weight weenies don't buy Carradice products!

 

[jazzkat]

I've used the wax that carradice sell (I've bought it from other shops too - spa cycles perhaps?)
It works well, I've never had a problem with the bags letting in water.