How To Waterproof Leather Boots: 5 Methods

To make sure your favorite pair of leather boots stay in good condition for many years, you need to learn how to waterproof them.

The following guide explains 5 of the most effective ways to waterproof leather boots:

1. Mink Oil

Mink oil comes from mink fat that has been removed from the animal’s pelts intended for the production of fur.

It’s a good choice for waterproofing leather because it doesn’t only protect against moisture, but also softens and enriches the tough fibers of leather.

Some types of mink oil contain silicone and other additives to boost its waterproofing ability.

Here’s how to properly apply mink oil:

1. Take the laces off then clean your leather boots thoroughly. Remove all dirt and grime using water and rags to ensure full coverage by the waterproofing product.
2. Let the boots air dry until just a little damp.
3. Grab a soft cloth and dump a small amount of mink oil on it.
4. Use the cloth to work the oil into the leather until it’s completely and evenly coated. You can add another small amount of oil if necessary.
5. Let the boots dry overnight.

Mink oil coating should be applied once every month or so.

It’s important not to oversaturate leather with oil or apply it too frequently, otherwise, the leather fiber will discolor and separate.

Also, keep in mind that mink oil may darken light-colored leather, so it’s a good idea to test it on a less visible part of your leather boots first.

2. Nikwax

Nikwax is a specially designed waterproofing cream wax for leather gloves and footwear.

It doesn’t just add a water-repellent layer, but also maintains the texture of the leather while improving its breathability and performance.

Nikwax is biodegradable, water-based, and free of volatile organic compounds.

It comes in a tube with a built-in sponge applicator.

Here’s how to properly apply Nikwax:

1. Take the laces off then clean your leather boots thoroughly. Remove all dirt and grime using water and rags to ensure full coverage by the waterproofing product.
2. Let the boots air dry until just a little damp.
3. Shake the tube well then press the sponge applicator to release the product.
4. Apply a generous amount of the product and rub it into the leather with the applicator sponge until the boots are completely and evenly coated. Alternatively, you can use a clean cloth or your hands.
5. Use a clean cloth to remove excess wax.

Nikwax coating lasts about a week in the wet season. For normal weather, applying it every month or so should be enough.

3. Lanolin

Lanolin is a type of natural wax that sheep secrete to protect their wool.

It’s a natural waterproofing method that also softens and conditions leather.

Typically, lanolin comes in cream form.

Once you apply it and it starts to cool down, the lanolin coating will harden.

Here’s how to properly apply lanolin:

1. Take the laces off then clean your leather boots thoroughly. Remove all dirt and grime using water and rags to ensure full coverage by the waterproofing product.
2. Let the boots air dry until just a little damp.
3. Grab a soft cloth and dump some lanolin cream on it.
4. Rub the lanolin into the leather until it’s completely and evenly coated.
5. Let the boots dry overnight.

Apply lanolin every 4 to 6 weeks. keep in mind that lanolin may darken light-colored leather, so it’s a good idea to test it on a less visible part of your leather boots first.

4. Beeswax

Natural beeswax is an effective and affordable method of waterproofing leather.

It’s also a good lubricant and conditioner.

Here’s how to properly apply beeswax:

1. Take the laces off then clean your leather boots thoroughly. Remove all dirt and grime using water and rags to ensure full coverage by the waterproofing product.
2. Let the boots air dry until just a little damp.
3. Warm the beeswax using a hairdryer.
4. Use a soft clean cloth to grab some of the heated wax.
5. Rub the wax into the leather until it’s completely and evenly coated.
6. Remove excess wax and let the boots dry and cure overnight in a dry, warm spot.

Apply beeswax every month or so, but do a test patch for the first application as wax may permanently darken leather.

5. Waterproof Spray

Quick and reliable, a waterproof spray can boost the durability of your leather boots and enhance their performance.

Such sprays either contain silicone polymer or acrylic copolymer.

Here’s how to properly apply waterproof spray:

1. Take the laces off then clean your leather boots thoroughly. Remove all dirt and grime using water and clean rags to ensure full coverage by the waterproofing product.
2. Let the boots air dry until just a little damp.
3. Grab the spray can and hold it about 6 inches away from the boots.
4. Spray a thin, even layer of the product and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some sprays call for a second coat.

Reapplying waterproofing spray depends on the product you use, but generally, you should do it every month.

The Best Way To Waterproof Doc Martens Boots

Doc Martens boots are durable and comfortable, but they aren’t usually waterproof because most of them are made out of canvas material.

The best way to make Doc Martens boots more water-resistant is to wax them using the company’s Dubbin Wax or beeswax, letting the boots dry, and then applying a waterproofing spray such as the company’s Ultra Protector.

How To Waterproof Ugg Boots

Uggs are warm on the inside, but their suede exterior isn’t waterproof.

Here’s a simple guide to waterproofing ugg boots:

1. Use a suede brush to remove any dirt and debris, making sure you’re gentle yet thorough. Use a suede eraser for stubborn or matted stains.
2. Wipe the exterior using a cotton cloth dampened with cold water.
3. Run gently with a sponge dampened with 99% isopropyl alcohol or water and vinegar mixture (1:1 ratio).
4. Leave the boots to air dry completely in a shaded spot.
5. Use Nikwax the same way we explained above to waterproof the Uggs.