Leather that has been dampened or exposed to excessive amounts of moisture loses its natural oils, leaving leather items stained, discolored, dry, and stiff.
Waterproofing - which all devoted shoe & handbag lovers perform diligently - involves applying a chemical shield that will help to preserve leather's quality, workmanship and value.
Know Your Leather
There are several different types of leather that are used in making many different stylish leather products. In order to safely protect your purchases protecting leather boots from harsh weather you must first identify which type of leather you're dealing with.
Heavy silicone sprays and waxes, for example, cannot be used on thin, delicate split leathers such as suede. Likewise, you would receive inadequate waterproofing protection from a nubuck leather coating if you applied it to a winter or hiking boot.
Use the Right Treatment Strength
Items that will be worn outdoors frequently in damp or wet conditions should be treated with maximum protection regularly. Boots and shoes worn during cold winter months need extra care and benefit from heavier oils, waxes and dressings. Dress soft gloves, suede shoes, and nubuck coats that are rarely exposed to moisture are adequately treated with lighter silicon-free treatments.
It's Suede, Be Gentle!
Split leathers such as suede and nubuck should never be treated with traditional oils, waxes or silicone sprays. Heavy duty oils and waxes change the color and texture of delicate leathers. When shopping for an appropriate waterproofing product for these leathers, look for one that specifically states it can treat nubuck and suede.
Spot Check Leather First
Before applying any chemicals to leather, play it safe and perform a spot check, as many leather cleaners and protectors can alter the color and/or texture of leather.
Treat a small (preferably hidden) patch of leather, allowing the solution to soak in overnight - if you are satisfied with the results the next day, go ahead and protect the rest of the item.
Dressing, Oils & Waxes
Heavy duty dressings, waterproofing oils and waxes are sold as brush-on or rub-on products. They are usually oil-based and combine tanning agents (to help extend the life of your leather) with waterproofing agents (that bond to the material).
These heavier waterproofing agents generally work well on products containing mixed ingredients (nylon and leather), hiking boots and other outdoor leathers. Many heavy oils, such as mink oil, also condition leather, leaving the leather product softer and more supple.
Waxes, oils and dressings can be applied with a soft cotton rag or shoe brush. How to apply:
1.Remove all excess dirt and debris from the leather you want to coat. Pay careful attention to seams and stitching. Leather can be brushed or scrubbed.
2.Using a clean cloth or brush, apply a generous amount of product on all areas of the leather, especially on seams, where garments or footwear are more vulnerable.
3.Using a brush or cloth, work product into the leather as evenly as possible.
4.Using a soft clean cotton rag, wipe off excess oil, wax or dressing from the leather.
5.Allow to stand overnight.
Spray Protectors
Sprays are more convenient to use, as they take significantly less time to apply. Silicone sprays repel water and give material a slippery feel. Oil based silicone sprays are ideal for boots, shoes, jackets, mittens and other garments subject to harsh weather conditions.
Acrylic copolymer sprays are the best option for protecting split or nappy leathers such as nubuck and suede. This type of spray covers leather well, but remains flexible and still allows the material to breathe.
1.Clean leather you will be treating with a soft cloth.
2.Use spray products in a well-ventilated area, away from sparks or flames. Hold can 6 inches away from leather and spray an even coat over the material.
3.Allow leather to dry completely.
4.Repeat, as necessary.
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