10/28/2025
The leaves are falling and I had 6” of rain in my rain gage over the last week or so 👀 so I figured it’s a good time for a PSA.
“Waterproof blankets” is a misnomer. No blanket is both breathable and 100% waterproof at the same time. They’re more like, “really water resistant up to point.”
So really, the waterproof part of your blankets is a thin plastic-like backing on the tough outer fabric, safe inside your blanket were it won’t be peeled off as easily. Pressure washers can make this peel from the inside, since you’re directly applying water in the direction to make it peel off, the harder your spray, the more likely you’re peeling that waterproof backing right off. My advice, use only pressure washers you can stick your hand in front of, if it hurts your skin it’s too much for the fabric of your blankets. Urine will also eat away at the waterproof lining, which is why you shouldnt let your blankets sit too dirty for too long.
When/If you apply a waterproof spray, remember it’s just that… a topical spray. It only permeates the surface to create a more water resistant slick surface allowing the water to shed easier and not “stick” to the fabric. No topical spray can make a blanket truly waterproof, as once the fabric’s waterproof barrier has been penetrated, the water will soak into the stuffing and liner and boom your blanket is soaked. So in the end, it’s really a matter of how well your blanket can shed the amount of water that’s coming down. Not all blankets that soak mean they’re no longer waterproof, it may just mean that there was way too much water for it handle. It’s always a good idea to check under your blanket daily to make sure your horse is staying dry, just in case their blanket did soak through, AND why you should always have a spare on hand to swap out. 9 times out of 10 when they’re dry again, they’ll be just as waterproof as they can be. 😉
*Personally* I don’t waterproof my own blankets. If the blanket’s own waterproofing can’t do the job, no spray will fix what it can’t. Waterproofing does help water shed and protect the fabric and repells stains, and keeps them looking nicer longer. But I figure I’m only going to get 2-3 years out of blanket if I’m lucky, so I don’t much bother. And that’s my ✌🏻🪙❤️😘
