How To Apply Nikwax Waterproofing Wax For Leather

How to Apply Nikwax Waterproofing Wax For Leather

Using Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for your leather products, such as leather shoes and gloves, gives it hydrophobic properties that not only repels water but also coats it with a protective layer shielding it from the elements. Make sure to read out in-depth review on Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather.

As leather is known to easily absorb water, it’s important that waterproofing substances are used correctly to get the most of them. In this guide, we’ll be showing you how to apply Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather in just 4 simple and easy-to-follow steps.  

Application Guide Summary

  1. Prepare Product & Leather 
  2. Clean Leather 
  3. Apply Nikwax on Leather
  4. Let Leather Dry

1. Prepare Product & Leather 

Before starting the application process, there are a few things that you may want to take note of. The Nikwax Waterproofing Wax:

  • Works on all types of leather
  • May darken some types of leather
  • Contains no harmful solvents 
  • Is free of volatile organic compounds 
  • Waterproofs your leather products

Preparing the Wax

The first thing you should do is prepare the Nikwax Waterproofing Wax and your leather product. Before starting the application process, make sure to shake the bottle well and decide if you’re going to use the Nikwax Waterproofing Wax in liquid or cream form. Take note that there are two different versions of the product available.  

Preparing your Leather Product

When applying Nikwax Waterproofing Wax on leather shoes, we recommend that you remove the laces, as this gives you better access to the tongue and areas around the eyelets of your shoes. 

When applying it on leather gloves, we recommend that you remove the Velcro cuffs, so that you are able to access the entire leather surface. For any other leather products, unbuckle or remove anything that gives you better access. 

One important thing to take note of is applying Nikwax Waterproofing Wax on any type of sanded or buffed leather such as nubuck will give it a smooth and polished finish.

2. Clean Leather 

Once your leather products are prepared you can start the cleaning process. Ensure that you remove all dust particles and dirt, as they may obstruct the waterproof coating and could cause certain areas to peel. 

To do this, we recommend using a damp cloth and for stains that are tougher to remove a horsehair brush would be best. Take note that you won’t need to have your leather dried before applying Nikwax, as it works on both dry and wet leather. 

3. Apply Nikwax on Leather

When it comes to applying the product on your leather, you’ll have a few options. You can apply the Nikwax Waterproofing Wax through the sponge applicator, using your fingers or using an external material such as a cloth or wool. 

Applying Nikwax Waterproofing Wax to leather boots and shoes may be easier using your fingers or a wool cloth, due to the various layers and areas around the eyelets. On the other hand, applying it on gloves works well with the sponge applicator. For a full list, simply refer to the options below.

Option A: Using the Sponge Applicator

The first option is using the applicator that the product comes with. Although the sponge applicator is designed to evenly distribute the waterproofing formula onto your leather, you’ll need to be a bit careful.

The applicator is attached to the top of the tube, making it easy to use. Simply shake it and press the tube until the wax comes out. Now use the sponge and apply the wax onto the leather in circular motion. 

One reason why the sponge applicator may not be the best way to do this is because it can miss certain spots, especially near the seams. When this happens, use a cloth or your fingers to fill the gaps. Do this until the entire leather area is covered and remove any excess wax. 

Option B: Using Your Fingers

Another way you can apply the wax onto your leather is with your fingers. As the wax doesn’t contain any harmful substances, you can easily use your fingers to apply it on your leather. 

Simply shake the tube before squeezing out some of the product onto your leather. Now, use your fingers to evenly coat the entire area through circular and back and forth motions. Apply enough wax until the entire piece is evenly coated and remember to remove any excess wax.

Option C: Using Cloth or Wool

The final, and also our preferred option, is to use a piece of cotton cloth or sheep’s wool. Simply shake and squeeze some of the wax onto your preferred material and apply it evenly on your leather product. 

The reason why we deem this method to be the most effective, is because you’ll be able to reach all types of areas, gaps and seams that the sponge applicator may miss, while at the same time not getting your fingers dirty. 

Using a cloth or wool also helps in evenly distributing the wax across the entire surface. Remember to coat evenly and remove any excess wax.

4. Let Leather Dry

After you’ve applied Nikwax on your leather and removed all of the excess, you’ll need to let it dry. The manufacturer recommends letting your leather dry naturally, as drying it too quickly can result in cracks and peels. 

The best way to dry your leather is by letting it dry naturally, preferably indoors and overnight. Keep it away from direct sunlight, flames, radiators and fans. Once the leather is completely dry, you may want to buff it, to get a glossy finish. 

Your leather piece is now waterproof! When it comes into contact with water, it should drip right off! Make sure to apply a new coat of Nikwax Waterproofing Wax once the current coat has faded.


About Gerrit

Co-Founder, Researcher & Writer At Leatherskill

I’m a leather enthusiast who spends most of his free time crafting, researching, and writing about the many facets of this versatile material. Thanks for reading!