You can buy special stuff from outdoor suppliers for washing waterproofs - occasionally we use this to do ours in the machine on a cool wash. Then you can use a wash in reproofer (also in the machine) which restores the water repellency (so that the water on your jacket "beads" and runs off as opposed to soaking in to the upper layer). You need to tumble dry this on a low heat to activate it.
Depends what it's made of. If you go to a outdoor/camping shop, you will be able to buy all sorts of different proofers. Graingers are particularly good in my opinion. Make sure you don't put a wax or oil based one on any Goretex like material as it will block the pores and reduce the breathability of the fabric. You should have a choice of suitable sprays in most shops.
You can buy special stuff from outdoor suppliers for washing waterproofs - occasionally we use this to do ours in the machine on a cool wash. Then you can use a wash in reproofer (also in the machine) which restores the water repellency (so that the water on your jacket "beads" and runs off as opposed to soaking in to the upper layer). You need to tumble dry this on a low heat to activate it.
Thanks for that. Anyone know of places on t'internet where I can get this stuff from?
I use the Nikwax range and have always been happy with the results. There seems to be a product for every item of outdoor gear! http://www.nikwax.co.uk/uk/fabric.asp
i clean my waterproofs in the bath, warm water and soap flakes (sainsburys £1.50 a box, do not use a condtioner or softener ), then use a nikwax wash-in reproofer in the washing machine, tumble dry on low heat for 30-45 minutes lovely jubbly
A word of caution - using a proper non detergent based product (eg Nikwax) is good but if doing it in the washing machine remember to thoroughly clean out the soap dispenser unit first. I also always run the machine on a rinse cycle afterwards to make sure all the gunk is out of the drum.
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Topic: washing waterproof clothing
do not use a condtioner or softener 
