If you’re wondering if water can damage leather, there are some DIY solutions. Professional restoration services such as those provided by Tandy Leather Store can help you restore the finish and coating of your leather piece. Water can cause the leather to shrink as it dispenses with lubricating oils and exposes the protein and fibers to the air. Whether your leather is a smooth vegetable-tanned leather or a grainy variety, these professionals can help you.
Mold
If you notice signs of mold and water damage on your leather furniture, you can try some home remedies. Keeping the room dry is key to preventing mold growth. If necessary, invest in a dehumidifier. If not, try to open the windows for better ventilation. Also, you can use rubbing alcohol to clean leather surfaces. In either case, you should wear proper personal protective equipment, such as a mask and goggles.
Oil-based leathers
Water damage can ruin oil-based leathers, but luckily, it’s possible to save water-damaged leathers. Whether it’s rain or a spilled glass of water, leather can be repaired water damage West Covina. Water-based leathers use water-based dyes, and they can be easily repaired. However, if your leather wallet has a spill, it will require a thorough drying process.
Grained leathers
When it comes to protecting your leather items from water damage, suede is one of the most difficult. Not only is this finish very difficult to clean, but it is also nearly impossible to waterproof. The best way to protect the suede from water damage is to treat it with a water-repellent spray. While a conditioner isn’t always needed, it will help the leather reclaim its original color. If the leather is wet, it should be dried as soon as possible and protected from further damage by water.
Smooth vegetable-tanned leathers
The best way to avoid water damage to smooth vegetable-tanned leather is to clean it regularly. If you have a leather sofa, it should be cleaned regularly to avoid bacterial growth and cracks. Water damage to leather furniture can also lead to a poor appearance. Leather furniture can be damaged by water or even by a drop of a glass of water. Water can also affect your leather furniture if you have a leather sofa that is glued or stitched to another material.
Floated leather furniture
When your upholstered leather furniture is wet, it can become moldy or mildewed. The foam inside the cushions can become wet as well. Water damage on leather furniture is more expensive because it can rot. You need to remove the furniture from the water as soon as possible and let it dry naturally. Afterward, you can use a hairdryer to dry the wet leather. After the leather is dry, you can restore it by cleaning it with a leather cleaner.
Drying off oil-based leathers
To properly dry off oil-based leathers, it’s best to apply them sparingly. The oil will make the leather slightly darker as it absorbs moisture. Thinner leathers should apply thinner layers to avoid clogging the pores and giving it a tacky, greasy feel. You’ll want to apply a few drops of cleaner to the area that will be visible once it’s dry.
Cleaning a scuff or scratch
While scratches and scuffs on leather are unsightly, they are perfectly normal. Luckily, they can be cleaned to bring them back to their original condition. Here are some tips to clean leather. Do not use water – it can damage the leather and cause it to shrink. Instead, use a lanolin-based compound or a shoe polish of a matching color to cover the scratch or scuff.
Pre-treating leather to improve water resistance
One of the easiest ways to increase the water resistance of your leather shoes and handbags is by pre-treating them. While wax is the most common treatment for leather, you can apply it to other types as well. To apply wax, you should first take a cloth and apply it to the leather. This will help the wax to stay pliable, and you can then heat it with a hair dryer if it is too hard.
Protecting leather against water damage
You should consider buying a protection plan for your furniture that protects against accidents, such as spills and floods. Your leather shoes and bags should be insured as well. Consult a store representative or a lawyer to get more information. Protecting leather can help your items last a long time. Protecting your leather against water damage is a great way to make them look better. Keep in mind that leather is an extremely useful material, so protect it against the damage of water and other factors.