Can Leather Get Wet? What You Need to Know About Water and Leather Care

Leather is a timeless and durable material used in various items such as shoes, bags, jackets, and furniture. However, a common question many leather owners have is: can leather get wet? The short answer is yes, leather can get wet, but it’s not ideal. 

Understanding how water affects leather and how to care for wet leather can save your prized possessions from damage. This comprehensive guide will explain what happens when leather gets wet, how to properly handle wet leather, and ways to protect your leather items from water damage.

The Effects of Water on Leather

When leather gets wet, the water molecules bind with the natural oils in the leather. As the leather dries, these water molecules evaporate, taking the oils with them. This process leaves the leather dry, brittle, and susceptible to cracking. The loss of natural oils is the primary reason wet leather loses its supple quality and becomes less durable over time.

Despite these potential problems, wet leather is not necessarily a lost cause. With prompt and proper care, you can prevent significant damage and restore your leather items to their former glory.

Immediate Steps to Take When Leather Gets Wet

If your leather item gets wet, it’s crucial to act quickly to minimize damage. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Remove Excess Water

Gently wipe off any standing water with a soft, absorbent cloth. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can damage the leather. For leather shoes, boots, or bags, stuff them with crumpled newspaper to help maintain their shape and absorb moisture from the inside. For leather jackets, hang them on a wide, padded hanger.

2. Allow the Leather to Dry Naturally

Let the leather item air dry in a well-ventilated area, but avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or artificial heat sources like hair dryers or heaters. These can cause the leather to dry too quickly, leading to further brittleness and cracking. Allow the item to dry until it is damp but not completely dry.

3. Apply Leather Conditioner

While the leather is still damp, apply a coat of leather conditioner. Use a soft, clean cloth to massage the conditioner into the leather using small circular motions. This helps replenish the oils lost during the drying process and keeps the leather supple. Leave the conditioner to penetrate the leather for several hours or overnight.

4. Reapply Conditioner if Necessary

If the leather still feels dry or stiff in some areas, apply an additional coat of conditioner to those spots. Buff the entire surface of the leather with a clean cloth to ensure even distribution. Conditioning your leather regularly can help maintain its moisture balance and prevent future damage.

Long-Term Protection: Making Leather Water-Resistant

Once you’ve successfully dealt with wet leather, it’s time to consider making your leather items more resistant to water damage. Here are some tips for protecting your leather:

Leather Conditioner with Protective Ingredients

A good leather conditioner not only restores moisture but also provides a protective barrier against future water exposure. For items like leather bags and jackets, the conditioner you used to treat the wet leather should offer sufficient protection.

Waterproofing Sprays and Creams

For leather shoes and boots, which are often exposed to harsh elements, additional waterproofing measures may be necessary. Consider using a waterproofing spray or beeswax cream. These products create a water-repellent layer on the surface of the leather, providing extra protection.

Applying Waterproofing Products

• Clean the Leather: Before applying any waterproofing product, make sure the leather is clean and dry. Use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or dust, then let the leather dry completely.

 

• Apply the Product Evenly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the waterproofing spray or cream. Ensure you cover the entire surface of the leather item evenly.

 

• Allow to Dry: Let the waterproofing product dry completely before using the leather item. This drying process typically takes several hours or overnight.

Common Myths About Leather and Water

• Myth 1: All Leather is Waterproof

Not all leather is waterproof. Some leather items are treated with water-resistant finishes, but untreated leather can easily absorb water, leading to damage. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions for your specific leather item.

• Myth 2: Leather Can’t Be Saved Once It Gets Wet

While water can damage leather, timely and proper care can prevent severe damage. Conditioning and drying leather properly can restore its natural oils and suppleness.

 

• Myth 3: Any Conditioner Works for Leather

 

Not all conditioners are suitable for leather. It’s essential to use products specifically designed for leather care. General moisturizers or oils can clog the leather’s pores, affecting its breathability and durability.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Leather

Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather and is the most durable. It can handle getting wet better than other types of leather, but it still requires proper care to prevent damage. Regular conditioning can help maintain its longevity and appearance.

Top-Grain Leather

Top-grain leather is slightly less durable than full-grain leather but still high quality. It benefits from regular conditioning and waterproofing to protect against water damage. With proper care, top-grain leather items can last for several decades.

Genuine Leather

Genuine leather is lower in quality compared to full-grain and top-grain leather. It is more prone to water damage and may not last as long, even with proper care. Regular conditioning and waterproofing are essential to prolong the life of genuine leather items.

Bonded Leather

Bonded leather is made from scraps of leather bonded together with adhesives. It is the least durable type of leather and is highly susceptible to water damage. Waterproofing sprays can help protect bonded leather, but its lifespan is generally shorter than higher-quality leathers.

Conclusion

In summary, can leather get wet? Yes, but it’s not ideal. However, with prompt and proper care, you can mitigate the damage and restore your leather items. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your leather items while keeping them in top condition, whether they’re from Obi Pelle or any other high-quality leather brand. Proper care ensures that your leather goods remain a timeless and stylish part of your wardrobe or home.