How to Restore Leather Clothing That Has Water Damage

Leather clothing can last a lifetime if it's well maintained. When wearing leather, one of the main causes of damage is water. Very porous types of leather, including some suedes, can be beyond repair once wet. If your leather clothing gets wet, the first thing that should be done is to dry it. Damp leather accumulates mold and mildew. Once mold and mildew grows, restoration becomes more difficult.

Removing Water Stains

When leather is marked with water it leaves a stain, whether the leather is wet or dry. Saddle Soap is usually a good product to use to remove the remaining stain. After initially drying the stained areas, wet the saddle soap and work up a lather with a sponge. Apply the soap with the sponge and then pat dry. If stains still remain, repeat the process. To remove mold or mildew, use a soft nail brush. You may need to repeat a few times. If fading occurs in the areas that have been treated, a leather dye or shoe polish in the appropriate shade can be applied once dry.

Protecting the Leather

Finally, it's best to apply a protective coating. Many products, including Scotchgard, can be readily found in supermarkets. These should be used regularly to avoid future damage to the leather. Always dry wet leather immediately. A hair dryer on a low setting can speed up the process.