a hydrophobic , liquid - impermeable substrate includes a hydrophilic nonwoven having a treated surface , a polyolefin dispersion disposed on the treated surface , and a hydrophobic chemistry disposed on the polyolefin dispersion . a method for preparing a hydrophobic , breathable , liquid - impermeable substrate includes providing a hydrophilic nonwoven having a treated surface , applying a polyolefin dispersion to the treated surface , and applying a hydrophobic chemistry to the polyolefin dispersion . the hydrophilic nonwoven can be tissue or paper toweling . the hydrophobic chemistry can be a water - dispersible hydrophobic polymer .