Table of Contents
Waterproof fabrics are an essential consideration for a wide variety of applications from outdoor wear to camping gear. Hailing from multiple industries, these fabrics are designed to prevent water from penetrating their surface to protect the underlying materials. As such, it’s crucial to choose the right waterproof fabric for your needs to ensure durability, longevity, and effective protection.
The best waterproof fabrics are not only capable of keeping water at bay but also permeating water vapor, so they don’t trap body heat or sweat. They ideally should be lightweight, breathable, and durable for prolonged use in various conditions. Using the wrong fabric kind may lead to it quickly degrading, not being truly waterproof, or becoming uncomfortable due to overheating and trapping moisture.
When selecting a waterproof fabric, take into account its composition. Many high-quality options are made using a mix of synthetics and compounds like polyurethane or silicone. This fusion imparts the necessary repellent qualities to the fabric, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable even during heavy downpours or intense activities.
In this article, we guide you through the selection process to determine the best waterproof fabrics for your particular needs. We’ve researched, tested, and analyzed various fabric types to pinpoint the ones that offer the ideal combination of protection, breathability, and comfort. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to pick the best waterproof fabric for your personal or professional use.
Best Waterproof Fabrics
Selecting the right waterproof fabric is vital to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and comfort while in use. The fabric needs to prevent water infiltration while enabling the dissipation of body heat and perspiration. Given the countless fabric varieties in the market, it can be challenging to choose the most suitable one for your requirements. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best waterproof fabrics that will help you make an informed decision.
Ottertex Waterproof Canvas Black, Fabric by the Yard
If you’re looking for a waterproof canvas fabric, Ottertex Waterproof Canvas Black is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The fabric is completely waterproof, making it perfect for outdoor projects and wet weather conditions.
- It’s made of 100% polyester, which is durable and easy to clean.
- The black color is classic and versatile, making it a great choice for a variety of projects.
Cons
- The fabric is on the heavier side, which may make it difficult to work with for some users.
- It’s not as breathable as some other fabrics, which may be an issue for certain projects.
- The price point is slightly higher than some other waterproof canvas fabrics on the market.
We’ve used Ottertex Waterproof Canvas Black for a variety of projects, including outdoor cushion covers and a DIY rain barrel. The fabric was easy to work with and held up well in wet conditions. We were impressed with how waterproof the fabric was, even in heavy rainfall.
One thing to note is that the fabric is on the heavier side, which may make it difficult to work with for some users. Additionally, it’s not as breathable as some other fabrics, which may be an issue for certain projects. However, we found that the benefits of the fabric’s durability and waterproofing outweighed any minor drawbacks.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable waterproof canvas fabric, Ottertex Waterproof Canvas Black is definitely worth considering.
Mushroom Fabric by The Yard, Cute Trippy Plant Upholstery Fabric, Ombre Cartoon Kawaii Decorative Fabric, Neon Star Indoor Outdoor Fabric, DIY Art Waterproof Fabric, Purple Teal, 1 Yard
If you’re looking for a fun and quirky fabric for your DIY projects, the Mushroom Fabric by The Yard is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The ombre color gradient from teal to purple is absolutely stunning and adds a unique touch to any project.
- The print is bright, bold, and vibrant, making it perfect for those who want to add a pop of color to their home decor.
- The fabric is waterproof, making it ideal for use in areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Cons
- The fabric is a bit thick, which may make it difficult to work with for some users.
- The print may not be to everyone’s taste, as it is a bit on the quirky side.
- The fabric may not be suitable for those who are looking for a more traditional or classic look.
We recently used this fabric to make some pillow covers, and we were thrilled with the results. The ombre color gradient is absolutely stunning, and the print is bright and bold, which added a fun and playful vibe to our living room. Plus, the fact that the fabric is waterproof is a huge bonus, as it means we can use these pillow covers in our bathroom without worrying about them getting ruined.
One thing to keep in mind is that the fabric is a bit thick, which may make it difficult to work with for some users. However, we found that it wasn’t too bad once we got the hang of it. Additionally, the print may not be to everyone’s taste, as it is a bit on the quirky side. But if you’re looking for something unique and fun, this fabric is definitely worth considering.
Overall, we highly recommend the Mushroom Fabric by The Yard for anyone who is looking for a fun and quirky fabric for their DIY projects. It’s waterproof, easy to clean, and the ombre color gradient is absolutely stunning. Plus, the print is bright and bold, which makes it perfect for adding a pop of color to any room in your home.
GeeComfy Waterproof Canvas Fabric by The Yard 58″ W 600D Upholstery Polyester Material Indoor Outdoor Water Resistant Fabric for Chair Cushion Furniture Cover Sewing DIY Cloth, 1 Yard Red
If you’re looking for a durable and waterproof fabric for your DIY projects, GeeComfy Waterproof Canvas Fabric might be a great choice.
Pros
- The fabric is thick and sturdy, making it ideal for heavy-duty projects.
- It’s waterproof and easy to clean, making it perfect for outdoor furniture covers and other similar projects.
- The fabric comes in various colors, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your project.
Cons
- The fabric is not breathable, which might not be ideal for projects that require air circulation.
- The fabric might not be suitable for projects that require a soft and flexible fabric.
- The fabric might not be suitable for projects that require a transparent or see-through fabric.
We’ve used GeeComfy Waterproof Canvas Fabric for a few DIY projects, and we’re impressed with its durability and waterproof properties. The fabric is thick and sturdy, which makes it ideal for heavy-duty projects such as furniture covers, chair cushions, and other similar projects. We’ve also used it for outdoor projects, and it has held up well against rain and other elements.
One of the best things about this fabric is that it’s easy to clean. We’ve simply hosed it down and let it dry in the sun, and it looked as good as new. This is a huge plus for outdoor projects, where fabric can quickly become dirty and stained.
The only downside we’ve noticed is that the fabric is not breathable. This might not be ideal for projects that require air circulation, such as curtains or other similar projects. Additionally, the fabric might not be suitable for projects that require a soft and flexible fabric or a transparent or see-through fabric.
Overall, we would recommend GeeComfy Waterproof Canvas Fabric for anyone looking for a durable and waterproof fabric for their DIY projects. It’s easy to clean, comes in various colors, and is perfect for heavy-duty projects.
Softalker Rectangle Tablecloth
If you’re looking for a waterproof and stain-resistant tablecloth, the Softalker Rectangle Tablecloth is a great option.
Pros
- The tablecloth is made of 210GSM high-density polyester, which is durable and waterproof.
- The wrinkle-resistant fabric is easy to clean and maintain.
- The tablecloth is suitable for various scenes, including home, dining, party, and outdoor.
Cons
- The tablecloth is a bit thin and may not provide enough insulation for hot or cold foods.
- The elastic bands that hold the tablecloth in place may not fit all table sizes.
- The tablecloth may not be suitable for very large tables.
The Softalker Rectangle Tablecloth is a great choice for anyone who wants a durable and easy-to-clean tablecloth. The 210GSM high-density polyester material is waterproof and stain-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor or party use. The wrinkle-resistant fabric is easy to clean and maintain, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or wash it in the machine.
The tablecloth is suitable for various scenes, including home, dining, party, and outdoor. It can be used as a picnic blanket, a table cloth for a small outdoor party, a table cloth for a large indoor party, a table cloth for a family dinner, a table cloth for a BBQ party, a table cloth for a wedding, etc. The elastic bands at both ends can easily fix the tablecloth to the table without the need for any additional clips or fixings.
However, the tablecloth is a bit thin and may not provide enough insulation for hot or cold foods. Additionally, the elastic bands that hold the tablecloth in place may not fit all table sizes. Finally, the tablecloth may not be suitable for very large tables.
Overall, the Softalker Rectangle Tablecloth is a great choice for anyone who wants a durable and easy-to-clean tablecloth that can be used in various scenes.
emma kites Orange 20D Ripstop Nylon Fabric Waterproof 1.2 oz Silnylon Silicone Coating Ultralight Tear Resistant for Tarp Tent Poncho Rainfly Pack Cover Stuff Gear Sack Pre-Cut 1 Yard (60″x36″)
If you’re looking for a lightweight and waterproof fabric for your DIY projects, the emma kites Orange 20D Ripstop Nylon Fabric might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The fabric is lightweight, weighing only 1.2 oz per square yard, making it easy to work with and transport.
- The Silnylon coating provides excellent waterproofing, ensuring that your projects stay dry even in wet conditions.
- The fabric is tear-resistant, making it durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- The fabric is pre-cut into a 60″ x 36″ size, which might not be suitable for all projects.
- The fabric is not breathable, which might be an issue if you’re using it for clothing or gear bags.
- The fabric is not flame-retardant, which might be a concern if you’re using it for camping or other outdoor activities.
We’ve used the emma kites Orange 20D Ripstop Nylon Fabric for a variety of DIY projects, including a rain cover for our camping gear and a cover for our outdoor storage bin. The fabric was easy to work with and held up well after several uses.
The lightweight and waterproof properties of the fabric made it an excellent choice for our camping gear. The Silnylon coating provided excellent waterproofing, and the tear-resistant fabric held up well despite being exposed to rocks and branches during set-up.
However, we did find that the pre-cut size of the fabric was not always suitable for our projects. In some cases, we needed a larger or smaller size, which required additional cutting and waste.
Additionally, the fabric is not breathable, which might be an issue if you’re using it for clothing or gear bags. We found that the fabric tended to trap heat, which could be uncomfortable in warmer weather.
Overall, we would recommend the emma kites Orange 20D Ripstop Nylon Fabric for DIY projects that require a lightweight and waterproof fabric. However, if breathability or flame-retardancy is a concern, you may want to consider other options.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best waterproof fabrics, there are a few key features to consider. We have used and tested various products to identify the most important factors to look for.
Material
The material of the fabric is the most important factor to consider when buying waterproof fabrics. Look for materials that are 100% waterproof, such as polyester or nylon. These materials are durable and can withstand heavy rain or snow.
Breathability
Breathability is another important factor to consider when buying waterproof fabrics. Look for materials that are breathable, such as Gore-Tex or eVent. These materials allow moisture to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Durability
Durability is also an important factor to consider when buying waterproof fabrics. Look for materials that are durable and can withstand wear and tear. Consider the weight of the fabric and the type of stitching used.
Weight
The weight of the fabric is also an important factor to consider. Look for fabrics that are lightweight and easy to move in. However, keep in mind that lighter fabrics may not be as durable as heavier ones.
Cost
Finally, consider the cost of the fabric. Look for materials that offer a good balance of quality and affordability. Keep in mind that higher-priced fabrics may offer better performance, but may not be necessary for your needs.
By considering these factors, you can find the best waterproof fabrics for your needs.
