I think we could hand wash in a number two washtub in very hot water with mild soap to attempt to remove some of the imbedded wax. The material should soften as the wax is removed. I think the "no wash" instructions are meant to address the deterioration of the stitching over a period of time rather than harm done to the material. I'm going to give it a shot because the coat stinks and is worthless to me in its present condition. I don't know why it stinks because it started as a new coat and I haven't given it any different treatment than I have given any other Filson garment.