Leather is a durable and stylish material that can last for years if properly cared for. However, leather is prone to drying out and losing its waterproof properties over time. Maintaining leather’s waterproofing is important for preventing stains, mildew, and general damage from moisture. With the right products and techniques, keeping leather waterproof is simple.
Why Does Leather Lose Its Waterproofing?
Leather is naturally water-resistant due to the oils and waxes embedded in the hide during the tanning process. However, these oils can slowly dissipate over time, causing the leather to dry out and become less effective at repelling water. Factors like heat, sun exposure, and simply the passage of time can all degrade leather’s waterproofing abilities.
In addition, soaps and cleaners that are not specifically formulated for leather can strip away the oils that keep leather conditioned. Using abrasive products or handling leather roughly can also wear down the protective finish. Once the oils are diminished, water can more easily penetrate the leather resulting in warping, discoloration, cracking, and mold growth.
How to Maintain Waterproofing
Fortunately, it’s easy to maintain your leather items’ waterproofing and keep them looking great. Here are some simple tips:
1. Clean Gently
Use only specialized leather cleaners when cleaning your leather goods. Look for gentle, pH-balanced soap formulas. Avoid regular detergents, soaps, and scrubbing pads which can strip the oils from the leather. Instead, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away dirt and dust.
2. Condition Regularly
Leather conditioners replenish the oils that repel water. Condition your leather at least a few times per year with a leather conditioner or oil. Apply the conditioner lightly with a soft cloth, let it soak in for 5-10 minutes, then buff away any excess.
3. Waterproof When Needed
For leather goods that are exposed to heavy weather like shoes, bags, and jackets, use a waterproofing spray every few months. The spray will form an extra barrier against moisture. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing each coat to fully dry before the next application.
4. Avoid Heat
Leather dries out more quickly when exposed to heat sources like fireplaces, space heaters, and direct sunlight. Keep your leather goods away from extreme heat to prevent cracking and drying.
5. Use Treatments
In addition to conditioning, specialized treatments can preserve leather’s water resistance. Leather honey is an excellent treatment that penetrates deeply to restore suppleness. Beeswax-based leather creams also provide lasting protection.
6. Handle With Care
Rough treatment can damage leather’s protective oils and finish. Handle leather gently, avoid scratching or puncturing the surface, and store in breathable, dry conditions. Use leather sealants to touch up any scrapes.
Choosing the Right Products
The products you choose are important for properly maintaining leather’s waterproof barrier. Here’s what to look for:
Cleaners
- Gentle, pH-balanced formula
- Free of harsh detergents and solvents
- Removes dirt without stripping oils
- Includes conditioners
- Brands: Leather Honey, Chamberlain’s, Lexol
Conditioners and Oils
- Penetrates deeply into leather
- Contains natural oils like beeswax, mink oil, lanolin
- Restores suppleness and moisture resistance
- Protects against drying and cracking
- Brands: Leather Honey, Obenauf’s, Huberd’s
Waterproofing Sprays
- Forms an invisible, breathable barrier
- Contains silicone, wax, or acrylic polymers
- Creates water resistance without changing texture
- Brands: Kiwi Camp Dry, Nikwax, Scotchgard
Avoid
- Regular soaps and detergents
- Household cleaners like ammonia or bleach
- Oils and waxes not specifically for leather
- Petroleum-based products
- Silicone-based protectants
- Excessive heat from hairdryers, heaters, etc.
How to Apply Leather Conditioners and Cleaners
Using leather care products properly ensures you get the full conditioning and protective benefits. Here are some application tips:
Conditioners
- Clean item first with a specialized leather cleaner.
- Apply conditioner lightly and evenly using a soft cloth.
- Rub in small circles to work into leather’s pores.
- Avoid over-saturating leather; a little goes a long way.
- Allow conditioner to absorb fully, around 5-10 minutes.
- Buff gently with a clean cloth to remove excess.
- Condition smooth leather 2-4 times per year minimum.
- Condition suede and nubuck 1-2 times per year max.
Cleaners
- Dampen a soft, clean cloth with the cleaner.
- Gently wipe the surface using light pressure.
- Avoid over-wetting the leather.
- Rinse residue away with a fresh damp cloth.
- Allow leather to air dry fully.
- Clean leather whenever visibly dirty.
- Clean suede gently by brushing debris away.
Waterproofing Sprays
- Clean and condition item first before waterproofing.
- Apply spray in a well-ventilated area.
- Lightly mist a thin, even layer onto leather.
- Slowly rotate item to coat all surfaces.
- Apply 2-3 thin coats, allowing each to fully dry.
- Avoid over-saturating leather with spray.
- Reapply every few months as needed.
How to Waterproof Specific Leather Items
Certain leather goods require some specialized care to keep their waterproof barrier intact. Here are tips for specific items:
Shoes
- Use shoe trees to help shoes retain their shape and prevent interior cracking.
- Allow wet shoes to fully air dry before conditioning or wearing again.
- Use a shoe waterproofing spray to protect against rain and snow.
- Consider wax polishes which both condition and waterproof.
- Stuff toes with newspaper before storage to absorb moisture.
Watch Bands
- Wipe away sweat after wearing to prevent salt damage and cracking.
- Use a tiny amount of leather conditioner, working it into the band.
- Buff with a soft cloth to remove residue.
- Avoid taking watch into water, even if labeled water resistant.
- Allow full drying before wearing again if band gets wet.
Furniture
- Dust regularly using a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Clean spills immediately to prevent stains.
- Use leather conditioner 2-3 times per year.
- Keep furniture away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.
- Turn and rotate cushions to evenly distribute wear.
Car Interior
- Wipe down surfaces with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Clean tough dirt with a small amount of saddle soap on a sponge.
- Apply leather conditioner every 3-6 months.
- Use a leather protectant like 303 Aerospace to repel spills.
- Treat leather if exposed to rainwater.
Jackets and Bags
- Use waterproofing spray to protect against rain and snow.
- Allow wet items to fully air dry before storing.
- Stuff purses or bags with tissue paper before storage.
- Clean off salt stains from sweat after wearing.
- Consider protective creams for high-wear zones like cuffs and straps.
How to Repair Water Damaged Leather
If leather does get excessively wet, prompt action can minimize damage. Here are some steps to take:
1. Absorb Excess Moisture
Blot wet leather with clean, dry towels or rags to soak up all standing water. Stuff shoes or bags with newspaper or cloth to draw moisture out. For furniture, let wet spots air dry.
2. Disinfect and Deodorize
If leather has been soaked, like from floodwaters, disinfect it using isopropyl alcohol applied with a clean cloth once dry. This prevents mold and mildew growth. Baking soda can also deodorize musty smells.
3. Condition Thoroughly
Once leather is dry, apply a quality conditioner generously. Massage it into the leather’s pores using small circles. This nourishes and restores suppleness to dried leather.
4. Waterproof and Protect
Follow up conditioning with a waterproofing treatment like spray or cream. This seals the surface to prevent future water penetration. Continue to condition frequently to keep the leather hydrated.
5. Clean Carefully
Use only a mild, pH-balanced leather soap if needed to clean water stains. Harsh cleaners can further dry out the leather. Rinse residues thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth.
6. Avoid Heat
Never use heat from a hairdryer, heater, or direct sun to dry wet leather. This can cause irreparable cracking and damage. Always allow leather to fully air dry naturally.
7. Seek Professional Help
For badly damaged leather, seek help from a professional leather expert. They have chemicals and processes to re-dye, re-waterproof, and restore structure to severely affected leather.
Common Waterproofing Myths
There’s a lot of misinformation out there about keeping leather waterproof. Here are some common myths and facts:
Myth: Leather conditioners soften leather and reduce waterproofing
Fact: Quality leather conditioners actually maintain water resistance by nourishing leather fibers. Letting leather dry out causes more damage.
Myth: Heat helps leather dry out and recover from water damage
Fact: Heat from hairdryers or heaters actually worsens water damage. Always let leather air dry naturally.
Myth: Leather is prone to growing mold if it gets wet
Fact: Mold requires dampness to grow. As long as wet leather is allowed to fully dry, mold won’t develop.
Myth: Leather waterproofing products need frequent reapplication
Fact: Quality leather conditioners and waterproofing sprays can last 2-6 months between applications.
Myth: Turning leather often evenly distributes conditioner
Fact: Turning causes conditioner to rub off before absorbing. Leather should be allowed to rest once conditioned.
DIY Homemade Waterproofing Treatments
It’s easy to make your own leather waterproofing products using common household ingredients:
Beeswax Leather Cream
- 2 ounces beeswax pellets
- 1/2 cup carnauba wax
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 2-3 tablespoons pine resin
Melt ingredients together in a double boiler. Allow to cool and harden before applying a thin layer to leather with a cloth. Buff any excess.
Oil and Vinegar Conditioner
- 2 parts linseed oil or olive oil
- 1 part white vinegar
Mix oil and vinegar together in a spray bottle. Lightly spray leather and rub in with a soft cloth. Wipe away any residue.
Coconut Oil Waterproofer
- 1 cup coconut oil
- 1 cup beeswax pellets
- 2 tablespoons carnauba wax
Gently melt ingredients together on the stove or in a double boiler. Apply a thin coating to leather using a cloth and let fully absorb. Wipe away any excess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does leather need to be waterproofed?
Leather has natural water resistance, but maintainance is needed to keep this barrier intact. Water can permanently damage untreated leather over time.
How often should you waterproof leather?
2-4 times per year for frequently used leather items like shoes and bags. Less often for leather used sporadically like furniture.
Can you over-condition leather?
Yes, applying conditioner too frequently and not allowing full absorption can leave a greasy film and cause damage. Moderation is key.
Should leather get wet?
Occasional light rain or splashes won’t harm most leather. But excessive soaking can cause irreversible drying, cracking, and mold.
How do you restore very dry leather?
Deeply condition with a product containing oils and waxes. Apply multiple times to fully penetrate and revitalize the leather’s natural oils.
Does wax help waterproof leather?
Yes, wax creates a protective barrier against moisture. Opt for wax-based polishes and balms or beeswax treatments.
Can you over-waterproof leather?
Yes, too much waterproofing spray can clog pores and prevent the leather from breathing. Apply only light coats periodically.
Conclusion
Keeping leather waterproof is easy with some basic care and maintenance. Condition and clean leather regularly with the proper pH-balanced products to replenish oils. Use waterproofing sprays or waxes to protect from rain and snow. Allow wet leather to fully air dry. With proper precautions, your leather goods will stay supple and water-resistant for years to come.