Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Salon Capes: What Is the Difference?

“Waterproof” and “water-resistant” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Here is how DuraSilk uses each term and how to pick the right one for your services.

Waterproof

A waterproof cape or apron is built to keep liquid from passing through. DuraSilk’s waterproof pieces use H20 Protect material, for example the Waterproof Cape and the Waterproof Stylist/Colorist Apron. They are lightweight and moisture-wicking, without the sticky backing found on many traditional waterproof capes. The Mirrored by Marquie Butterfly Cape and Butterfly Apron are also 100% waterproof.

Water-resistant

A water-resistant cape repels water and splashes. The Classic Cape uses H20 Resist material that repels water, bleach and stains, and the White Classic Cape repels hair and water. Duraluxe capes have a water-resistant finish.

Comparison

Piece Rating Material Also resists
Waterproof Cape Waterproof H20 Protect Bleach, chemicals, stains
Waterproof Apron (short) Waterproof H20 Protect Bleach, stains
MbM Butterfly Cape 100% waterproof Premium waterproof fabric Bleach-proof
Classic Cape DS-110 Water-resistant H20 Resist Bleach, stains
White Classic Cape DS106 Water-resistant H20 Resist Hair
Duraluxe Mocha Water-resistant Duraluxe liquid-look fabric Bleach

Which should you choose?

  • Lots of rinsing, toning, gloss or chemical work at the bowl: waterproof.
  • Mostly cutting and styling with some color: water-resistant is usually enough and feels lighter.
  • Want a sealed neckline: look at silicone-collar capes in the Duraluxe Liquid collection.

More help: how to choose a salon cape and the full cape collection.

Add your salon logo

Every core DuraSilk style can be ordered with your salon logo at durasilkcustoms.com. Logo branding is free and you see an instant mockup of your logo on the product. Minimum order is 3 pieces, and you can mix and match capes, aprons, robes and shirts. Orders under 12 pieces have a one-time $30 setup fee; orders of 12 or more pieces have no setup fee.

FAQ

Is a water-resistant cape enough for color services?

It depends on how wet the service gets. Water-resistant capes like the DuraSilk Classic Cape repel water, bleach and stains; for full liquid protection choose a waterproof cape.

Do waterproof capes feel hot or sticky?

DuraSilk waterproof pieces are lightweight and moisture-wicking, without the sticky backing found on many traditional waterproof capes.

Which DuraSilk capes are waterproof?

The DuraSilk™ Waterproof Cape (H20 Protect) and the Mirrored by Marquie Butterfly Cape (100% waterproof).

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