How To Waterproof Leather in 4 Steps
Revised 9/25
Keep in mind, real leatheris a natural material, incredibly porous, and will never be completely waterproof. But there are a few ways to protect leather from water, which is the closest you’ll get to leather waterproofing. One option is to use a spray protectant or other commercial waterproofing product designed specifically for leather. Another option is beeswax cream. Beeswax is a natural waterproofing solution and has been found to be very effective at leather waterproofing. Be sure to spot test your leather messenger bag,leather shoes, or leather duffle bag with whatever product you choose, as many will have a darkening effect.
Interested in learning how to make this natural blend for leather waterproofing? Beeswax cream can be made at home if you’re feeling resourceful. Here’s how:
Supplies:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 ounces beeswax
- Glass Jar
- Medium pan of cold water
- Clean, soft buffing cloth
1. Combine ingredients
Pour the extra virgin olive oil into the glass jar. Break the beeswax into pieces and add to jar. Place jar into a pan of cold water.
2. Heat
Warm the pan over the stove. Stir the mixture in the jar until the beeswax has completely melted into the olive oil.
3. Cool
Remove pan from heat. Carefully remove the hot jar from the pan. Continue to stir the wax/oil mixture until it cools and stiffens. Get comfortable; this will take anywhere from 10-20 minutes.
4. Apply
After the mixture has cooled and stiffened, spot test the cream on an inconspicuous area of the leather. Then, be sure to begin with clean leather, apply the cream, gently buffing the leather surface. Repeat to build up the waterproof protective coating—this is key to leather waterproofing.
Once you get intoleather waterproofing,it’s important to explore other ways that you can protect your leather pieces. Discover our full suite of leather care products for all-natural cleaner and conditioner. For example, if you're looking to maintain your leather briefcase's slick appearance,start by using our leather cleaner, specifically formulated to remove dirt and grime buildup using a gentle formula that’s great for all leather types. Then, refresh your piece with our leather conditioner, a semi-thick wax that offers maximum protection and restoration. In essence, there’s so much more that goes into caring for your leather pieces besides leather waterproofing, but starting to build these upkeep items into your routine is the first step to preserving an heirloom.
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FAQs
The easiest way to make leather water resistant is to wax and condition your bags, shoes and accessories. You can do so separately, or do both with one product. One option is beeswax cream.
How do you make leather completely waterproof? ›
The easiest way to make leather water resistant is to wax and condition your bags, shoes and accessories. You can do so separately, or do both with one product. One option is beeswax cream.
What is the process of waterproofing leather? ›
The gaps in the leather can be filled in two completely different ways: firstly, impregnation, and secondly, hydrophilic waterproofing. Firstly, impregnation is a treatment of leather by molten waxes. The filling of the gaps with wax prevents the penetration of the water into the fibre network.
What can I use to waterproof leather? ›
Here's a few products that can help waterproof leather boots:
- Wax Sealing. Waxing boots is a tried-and-true method for waterproofing. ...
- Waterproofing Sprays. Spray-on treatments like this silicone-based Boot Waterproofer from Kiwi are quick and easy to apply, but also the least durable option. ...
- Oil Treatments. ...
- Seam Sealers.
Densodrin® EN, ENS and ER are the solutions for conventional waterproofing. For leathers that need a medium to high level of water resistance, Densodrin® ENS is the waterproofing agent of choice.
Can you waterproof leather with Vaseline? ›
If you're having problems with your leather shoes, you can always use Vaseline to waterproof your shoes temporarily. Start with clean, dry shoes. Then, apply a thin, even layer of Vaseline to the shoe's surface, ensuring the seams are well-covered. Make sure to use a cloth or sponge to spread it evenly.
Can you use waterproof spray on leather? ›
Yes, most waterproofers are suitable for both types of leather.
How long can you soak leather in water? ›
Just soak the leather your using. To speed things up, you can work the water into the leather with your hands by rubbing the backside of the leather. Generally, I would let the pieces of leather soak for about 30 minutes and then use them.
What is the best leather for waterproofing? ›
Both types of leather are great choices and have their own beautiful advantages.
- Synthetic Leather. As far as waterproof leather goes, synthetic leather is not a bad choice. ...
- Nubuck Leather. ...
- Eel Leather. ...
- Stingray Skin. ...
- Arapaima Skin.
Dubbin (also known as "dubbing" in the US) is a greasy or waxy product used to soften, condition, and waterproof leather. It has been used since medieval times to waterproof and soften leather goods.
But unfortunately, that doesn't translate to leather care. It is likely that this myth came from the age-old practice of oiling baseball gloves and horse saddles. Natural oils may work well for those purposes, but we strongly discourage using any type of oil on your leather shoes or any more valuable leather products.
Does oil make leather waterproof? ›
Lastly, certain oils help to fortify against the elements, offering a degree of resistance to water and stains. Leather is naturally a robust material with a long life expectancy. Applying the right oil to your leather goods — whether briefcases, wallets, weekend bags or furniture — will only increase their longevity.
What liquid destroys leather? ›
Most importantly, avoid alcohol and abrasive solvents for leather products. The best way to remember what you can and can't use on your leather is to keep this in mind: The two most commonly used chemicals that will cause severe damage to your leather are rubbing alcohol and acetone.
How do you prevent water damage on leather? ›
Prevent Water Damage Before it Happens
To be proactive, clean your boots regularly with Leather Honey Leather Cleaner and condition every six months with Leather Honey Leather Conditioner. Leather Honey Leather Conditioner will act as a water-repelling agent.
Can you get 100% leather wet? ›
Sure, leather can get wet - but it's not a great idea. The main problem when leather gets wet actually arises as the leather dries. When leather gets wet, the oils in the leather bind to the water molecules. As the water dries and evaporates, it draws out the oils with it.
Is 100% leather waterproof? ›
Leather and water don't mix very well, although leather does have a degree of natural water resistance. This is okay if it comes into contact with small amounts of water (such as light rain), but as natural animal leather is a porous material, it will never be 100% waterproof.
Does water permanently damage leather? ›
When leather gets wet, it opens it up to deterioration. Water strips leather of its natural oils and when wet leather dries, it becomes dry and brittle. While rain can ruin leather, the following steps can help you treat and fix water-damaged leatherto help preserve your valuable leather apparel.
Does water permanently stain leather? ›
Water itself does not necessarily damage the leather permanently, but if left untreated, these water stains can become permanent, cause discoloration, and alter the texture of the leather, affecting the aesthetic appearance of your product.
