A method for forming self-cleaning coating comprising hydrophobically-modified particles. Micro- or nano-particles are treated with a hydrophobic agent and an additive to form larger particles with the hydrophobic agent and the additive bonded thereto. A binder or crosslinker is attached to the larger particles by forming chemical bonds with at least one of the additive, the hydrophobic agent, and the particles, thus forming a coating material capable of forming self-cleaning coating.