Waterproofing Shoes - Important Tricks And Tips

Waterproofing your leather shoes (as well as some types of fabric shoes) is essential to surviving winter weather, since water can damage or completely ruin leather. All waterproofing solutions work similarly to create a thin barrier on the surface of your leather that cannot be permeated by water.

Before you start the waterproofing process, take a close look at your shoes and determine what type of leather and other materials it is made of. Examine the shoe box for any special cleaning instructions that you will need to keep in thoughts. Then select a water proof product that is made for your type of leather.

For waterproofing shoes, you may select either a spray or a semi-solid wax product. Sprays are better to use, but may well not best site here be able to provide a good thick water proof coat. On the other hand, you must not use a spray (which usually includes silicone) on thin, delicate leathers. The manufacturer with this leather may recommend a semi-solid product for waterproofing shoes.

Before you get started waterproofing, do a "spot test" over a small, hard-to-see area on your shoes. A good spot is somewhere inside the shoes, such as on the underside of the tongue. If you notice any color or texture changes, or any damage, stop and do not use the product. Contact the manufacturer of your shoes to learn how to proceed.

If all goes well, you can commence waterproofing leather. Some waxy products contain a brush, and some are rub-on. If utilizing a rub-on product, get a smooth, soft, cloth. Go through the directions first - most likely, they may inform you to rub in slow circular motions and also to apply more than one coat for waterproofing shoes.

If you use a brush, the process is much the same, other than that you will make slower circular motions with the brush, and try to apply a bit of pressure so that the brush can get deep into breaks. However, be sure to are utilizing a soft brush specially designed for this purpose, otherwise you could scratch the shoes. Professionals usually recommend that a brush be used for fabric protecting, as well.

Speaking of cracks, whether utilizing a towel or brush, you should spend extra attention on all seams, cracks, raised areas, and any imperfections in the leather. Slather a little extra on these areas in order that it can really sink in, and rub copiously. Do it again up to three times if necessary to waterproof these important areas.