Leather gloves are a necessary part of any gardener’s wardrobe. They provide protection from the cold and wet, and make it easier to handle plants and tools. However, if they aren’t waterproofed properly, they will quickly become ruined. In this guide, we will discuss how to waterproof leather gloves using several different methods. We’ll also answer some common questions about the process. So if you’re looking to keep your leather gloves in good condition for seasons to come, read on!
When Would You Want to Waterproof Your Leather Gloves?
There are a few reasons why you might want to waterproof your leather gloves. Maybe you have a pair of beautiful, soft leather gloves that you love, but they just don’t seem to be holding up well in the rain. Or maybe you need to wear gloves for work or other activities, and you want to make sure your hands stay dry and comfortable.
Applying a waterproof product to your gloves will protect them from water damage like staining, warping, and cracking. It will also help to keep your gloves clean and looking new as well as prolongs their lifespan. [1], [2], [3], [4]
Steps on How to Waterproof Leather Gloves
Now that you know when you might need to waterproof your leather gloves, let’s go over a few simple steps on how to do it by yourself.
Clean the leather with a mild soap
The first step is to clean the leather with a mild soap. This will remove any dirt, oil, or other debris that might be on the surface of the leather.
Use a soft cloth or brush to work the soap into the leather in a circular motion. Rinse the gloves off with clean water and let them dry completely before moving on to the next step.
If your gloves are particularly dirty, you may need to repeat this step a few times. Be sure to rinse the gloves thoroughly after each washing so that no soap residue is left behind. Never use any harsh chemicals or cleaners on leather gloves.
Use a waterproof wax
Once the gloves are clean and dry, you can apply a waterproof product on them. There are a few different ways to waterproof your gloves. One popular method is to treat them with beeswax. You can also use other types of waxes or even oils such as neatsfoot oil or mink oil. Whatever method you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully so that you don’t damage the gloves. There are many different brands of waterproofing products available, so you can choose one that best suits your needs. [1], [2], [4], [5]
But first, there’s one extra step you should proceed with to make the waterproofing way more effective.
Heat your gloves
Before you apply the waterproofing wax or cream, you should heat up the leather gloves. This will help to open up the pores in the leather so that the product can better penetrate and protect the material.
You can do this by placing the gloves in the oven on low heat, or using a hair dryer on a low temperature setting as well. Hold the gloves about 12 inches away from the heat source and move them around so that they evenly absorb the warmth. Be careful not to get the gloves too hot, as this could damage the leather.
Rub the wax into gloves
After heating up your gloves, apply a thin layer of waterproofing wax or cream to them. To apply the wax or cream, simply rub it into the leather in a circular motion with a toothbrush or a soft cloth. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the gloves, including any seams or stitching. Work it into the leather with your hands until it’s evenly distributed. Let the product soak into the leather for at least 20 minutes or up to an hour before wearing the gloves. Make sure to remove the excesses afterwards.
You can apply additional layers of waterproofing wax or cream if you feel like your gloves need it. Just be sure to let each layer dry completely before adding another.
After heating up your gloves, apply a thin layer of waterproofing wax or cream to them. To apply the wax or cream, simply rub it into the leather in a circular motion with a toothbrush or a soft cloth. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the gloves, including any seams or stitching. Work it into the leather with your hands until it’s evenly distributed. Let the product soak into the leather for at least 24 hours or more before wearing the gloves. Make sure to remove the excesses afterwards to create an even layer of the product.
You can apply additional layers of waterproofing wax or cream if you feel like your gloves need it. Just be sure to let each layer dry completely before adding another.
Let the wax or cream air dry completely for at least a day before using your gloves again. Don’t place them under direct heat, as this could cause the wax or cream to not be absorbed properly and compromise the final result. [1], [2], [3], [4], [5]
Reapply the coating every few months
To keep your gloves in good condition, you’ll need to reapply the waterproofing coating every few months. This will help to protect the leather from water damage and keep your hands dry and comfortable.
Disadvantages of Using the Waterproof Wax or Cream
While there are many advantages to using a waterproof wax or cream on your gloves, there are a few disadvantages to consider as well.
First of all, it’s important to note that these products will change the appearance of your gloves, wax is especially prone to doing that. The leather will darken and may become stiffer and darker after treatment. Because of this, you may want to test the product on a small inconspicuous area of the gloves before treating the entire surface.
Another downside to using waterproofing products is that they can make the gloves less breathable. This means that your hands may sweat more when wearing them, which can be uncomfortable. If you live in a warm climate or are planning to use your gloves in hot weather, this is something to keep in mind.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities, be sure to test the product on a small area of skin before applying it to your gloves. Some people may experience irritation from certain brands of waterproofing products. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully and stop using the product if you experience any adverse effects.
FAQ
Should I waterproof leather gloves?
This is a difficult question to answer. It really depends on the intended use of the gloves. If you are planning on using your gloves for work or other activities where they will be exposed to water or snow frequently, then it is probably a good idea to waterproof them. However, if you only plan on wearing them occasionally in light rain or snow, then you may not need to waterproof them.
Can I protect my leather gloves?
Yes, you can protect your leather gloves from the elements by waterproofing them. This will help to keep them looking their best and prolong their lifespan.
There are a few different ways that you can waterproof your leather gloves. You can use a spray-on waterproofing agent, or you can rub it on with a cloth. Whichever method you choose, make sure that you follow the instructions carefully so that you don’t damage your gloves.
Once you have treated your gloves, be sure to store them in a cool, dry place when they’re not in use. This will help to keep the leather from cracking or drying out.
Can leather gloves get wet?
Yes, leather gloves can get wet. And if they aren’t waterproofed properly, they can become ruined. Waterproofing your gloves is an important part of their maintenance and there’s a lot of options you can use for the job.
Can I use shoe polish on leather gloves?
No, you should not use shoe polish on leather gloves. Shoe polish can darken the leather and make it look dull. Instead, treat your gloves with specialized waxes or conditioners made specifically for leather. This will help keep the gloves looking their best and prevent them from drying out.
If your gloves are already water-resistant, you may not need to waterproof them again. However, if you plan to use them in wet or damp conditions, it’s a good idea to waterproof them from time to time. This will help extend the life of the gloves and keep them looking their best.
What are some tips for keeping leather gloves dry during inclement weather?
- If the gloves become wet, remove them and allow them to air dry.
- Keep a small pack of desiccant packets in your pocket to help absorb any moisture.
- Stuff the gloves with crumpled up newspaper or tissue paper to help absorb any moisture.
- Put the gloves in a plastic bag and seal it closed before placing it in the freezer overnight. This will help kill any bacteria or fungus that may be causing the smell, and will also help to dry out the gloves.
- Apply a waterproofing spray or cream to the gloves before heading out in bad weather. This will help to keep the water from seeping in and will also help to repel any dirt or debris.
How can I keep my leather gloves from becoming waterlogged during winter?
Rub some beeswax or another type of wax onto the gloves. This will help to protect them from becoming waterlogged.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also heat the gloves. This will help the wax to penetrate the leather better.
Afterward, use a mild soap to clean them. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly and then dry them off completely before putting them away.
Finally, you can seal the gloves with a waterproofing wax. This will provide an extra layer of protection and keep them from getting wet even in the rainiest of days.
Is it possible to waterproof suede leather gloves?
It is possible to waterproof suede leather gloves. However, it is important to use a treatment that is specifically meant for suede leather, not a general waterproofing treatment.
There are a few different ways to waterproof suede leather gloves. One way is to apply a sealant or protector that is designed for suede leathers.
Another way is to coat the gloves with a water repellent spray.
A third way is to soak the gloves in a water repellent solution. Whichever method you choose, make sure to test it on an inconspicuous spot on the glove first. This will help to make sure that the color or texture of the suede is not changed.
Is there a specific type of leather that is better suited for waterproofing?
Semi-aniline leather is a good choice for waterproofing. It’s a type of leather that has been treated with a finish that makes it more water resistant than other types of leather.
Even though semi-aniline leather is not completely waterproof, you can protect it from moisture by applying a water repellent sealant. This will help keep your shoes and boots looking good for a long time.
What are some alternate methods of waterproofing your gloves?
There are a few alternate methods of waterproofing your gloves. One is to use a water-repellant spray, which you can buy at most sporting goods stores.
Another is to rub beeswax or another type of wax on the gloves.
Finally, you can also coat the gloves with a waterproofing compound, which you can buy at most hardware stores.
Is silicone spray good for leather?
Yes, silicone spray is a good protectant for leather. It helps to keep the leather from drying out and cracking, and it can also help to repel water and prevent stains.
Before spraying your leather, test a small area to make sure the spray won’t make it shiny or sticky. If you do not like the way the silicone spray looks or feels, you can always buff it off with a soft cloth.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the silicone spray can, and only spray a light amount onto the leather. You don’t want to saturate it and make it difficult to clean later on.
Should you use waterproof spray on leather gloves?
It depends on what the gloves are made of. If the gloves are made of natural leather, then spraying them with a waterproofing agent could ruin them. The agent will prevent the leather from breathing and make it brittle and crack.
If, however, the gloves are made of synthetic materials, then a waterproof spray should be fine.
What type of leather is waterproof?
Semi-aniline leather is the best type of leather to get if you’re looking for something that’s waterproof. It’s a treated leather that has a protective layer applied to it that makes it resistant to most liquids.
However, it is still susceptible to some staining, so you will need to be careful with what you put on it.
Some people might want a material that is really waterproof. If you are one of those people, you might want to choose vinyl or plastic. Leather is a natural material, so it isn’t 100% waterproof.
Is leather OK in rain?
Leather is OK in rain, but you might want to take some precautions. If the leather gets wet, it could get stained or start to smell bad. You can protect your leather from getting wet by using a waterproofing product or by spraying it with a water repellent.
If you do get your leather wet, make sure to dry it off as soon as possible. You can use a hairdryer on the low setting, or you can stuff the leather with newspaper to help soak up the moisture.
Do real leather gloves absorb water?
Yes, real leather gloves absorb water. The absorbed water can cause the leather to stretch and become loose. It can also make the gloves heavy and difficult to move in.
You can avoid your gloves getting wet by treating them with a waterproofing agent before you wear them. If your gloves have already started to absorb water, you can try drying them out by stuffing them with newspaper or placing them in the sun.
Useful Video: How to Waterproof Your Gloves
Conclusion
So, whether you’re a hiker or just like to have your hands free while you work in the garden, waterproof gloves are a must. If you don’t want to buy a new pair of gloves, you can always waterproof your existing pair. The best way is to apply a water-repellent coating; this can be done with a spray or by rubbing in beeswax after carefully heating your gloves. Just don’t forget to clean them and make sure they are completely dry before using them. With a little effort, your old leather gloves can become waterproof and perfect for those snowy hikes or working in the garden on rainy days.
References:
- https://howmuchwillitsnow.com/blog/sno_seal_original_bees_wax_leather_snow_protector_waterproofer
- https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-waterproof-gloves.html
- https://www.nikwax.com/usblog/how-to-clean-and-waterproof-your-leather-gloves/
- https://meraki.pe/blogs/journal/learn-how-to-make-your-leather-gloves-waterproof-in-4-steps
- https://www.leatherskill.com/how-to-waterproof-leather-gloves/
