We all appreciate a comfy pair of stylish leather gloves. It serves as the second skin that provides warmth and protection in cold and wet conditions. But, if not properly cared for, water can cause serious damage to the leather material, reducing its quality and lifespan.
Learning how to waterproof leather gloves will help protect them from the elements. It helps minimize brittleness, preserves their look and shape, and keeps them nice and warm.
And did you know that you need to waterproof all kinds of leather gloves?
In this post, we’ll show you how to do just that. We’ll also give you tips on how to effectively apply your favorite products, making sure that they deeply penetrate your leather’s fibers well, giving them a renewed luster, and getting them ready for your next outdoor activity.
Why Waterproof Your Leather Gloves?
Leather adapts well to both wet and dry weather conditions. But waterproofing the material adds an even layer of protection. It can effectively shield them from external threats like dirt, dust, and moisture.
Your leather has fibers that can easily be penetrated by these elements. And this can cause damage and reduce the quality and look of the gloves. With the best waterproofing products, you can give your pair the protection it needs.
Whether you’re using your leather gloves for hiking, skiing, camping, or working outdoors, coating them with waterproofing wax also improves water repellency while preserving their inherent breathability. It also maintains the glove’s texture and color for a long time.
When Should You Waterproof Your Leather Gloves?
You know it’s time to waterproof your lovely pair of comfy leather gloves when it seems to no longer hold up well during wet seasons. But you should do it based on the exposure and environment.
The best time to do it is at the start of each season. In harsh regions, however, you may want to waterproof your leather boots and gloves 2 to 3 times each season. Waterproofing wax and sprays don’t last all year, so you can also reapply the products every few months.
How To Waterproof Leather Gloves
Before beginning the waterproofing treatment, make sure to have the right products and tools on hand including soft cloths, a leather cleaning solution, and a leather waterproofing wax. Then, follow the easy steps below:
Step 1: Prep Your Gloves.
Clean your gloves with soap or cleaning solution to remove stains and dirt. Make sure to dry them before applying any products. A good alternative is cleaning with am absorbent, damp cloth.
Step 2: Apply Your Preferred Waterproofing Wax.
But first, read the cleaning instructions on the label. Then, squeeze on the product and apply it evenly on the leather’s surfaces using a clean cloth. Make sure every spot is waxed and pay attention to the seams and crannies, especially in full-grain leather gloves.
Do circular and back-and-forth motions, ensuring that the leather’s entire surface is evenly coated. Then, let the product sit for 5 minutes and get fully absorbed.
Note: Some products may leave stains, particularly light-colored gloves and white gloves. So, make sure to choose the ideal wax for the type and color of leather you have.
Step 3: Remove Any Excess Wax.
You can wipe them away with a clean, damp cloth. If you leave the excess wax on the leather, it might produce dark patches and cause uneven water repellency.
Step 4: Allow the Leather To Dry.
Don’t attempt to dry them by wringing them out, or placing them over a heat source or direct sunlight. Instead, let the gloves air dry in an open, well-ventilated area for about 24 hours to achieve the best results. Giving enough time should allow the leather to soak the wax completely.
Wax Application Tips
Rubbing wax or cream into leather can be satisfying. Here are some tips to enhance that experience while boosting the product’s efficacy.
Heat Your Leather Gloves.
Some creams or wax products can be hard to spread. In this case, you can heat your leather gloves before applying the waterproofing wax. Doing so helps open up the pores in your leather, allowing the solution to penetrate deeper and preserve the material.
You may heat the gloves using a hair dryer or place them in the oven at a low temperature. Make a 12-inch distance between the gloves and the heat source, and move it around to heat them up evenly. Do this with caution because it could damage the material.
Reapply the Product Every Few Months.
This will help keep your leather gloves in good shape and shield them from water damage while also keeping your hands dry and comfy. But if you’re a busy worker and you need to wear gloves out every day, consider coating your leather often.
That said, not all products are the same and some don’t really recommend frequent reapplication. Always refer to the product manufacturer. You should also consider the current condition of the gloves.
FAQs
How Do You Completely Waterproof Leather?
Use a spray protectant or other commercial waterproofing agent formulated specifically for leather. You can also use beeswax cream. It’s a natural waterproofing solution proven to be particularly good in protecting leather.
Always make sure to clean your leather first. Then, evenly apply the wax or cream, let it dry, and repeat the process if needed.
What Specific Type of Leather Should You Waterproof?
You pretty much can waterproof any leather that comes in contact with water, food, and moisture. Those you use for skiing, hiking, and hunting are exposed to different weather conditions. So, waterproofing leather gloves will keep them in good shape.
Semi-aniline leather is an excellent waterproofing material. This leather type has been finished for added water resistance.
That said, regardless of the type, leathers are still prone to damage when constantly exposed to water. But you can protect them with a water-repellent sealer to extend their lifespan.
Is Silicone Spray Safe To Use on Leather?
Silicon is an excellent option to protect the leather. It keeps the material from drying out. Plus, it can repel moisture and minimize discoloration.
But before spraying, apply a small amount on a tiny spot of the leather, making sure that it won’t not get glossy or greasy. The reason for this is to see if you like the finish and result. Make sure to read the instructions on the can before taking any action.
Can You Use Vaseline on Leather Gloves?
You can. But only when you don’t have a specialized treatment on hand. Vaseline works fine at moisturizing dry leather gloves, however, you shouldn’t use it as a substitute for a waterproofing agent.
While it can “soothe” your leather goods, this petroleum-based product can clog leather pores and cause it to break down, causing lasting damage to the gloves. It may also eventually break down the adhesive used in certain leathers. In addition, it might cause the material to soften and discolor over time.
Wrap Up
Learning how to waterproof your leather gloves helps keep them functional and durable during wet weather conditions. There are various techniques to do it, but our approach works well with most products. And speaking of products, make sure to choose the right waterproofing wax suited for your leather type.
We hope you find this guide helpful in waterproofing your leather gloves and extending their lifespan. If you have any queries or feedback, do reach out to us. Good luck!
