When it comes to footwear, suede is a popular material due to its luxurious feel and effortless style. However, this fabric can be difficult to care for as it is prone to staining and easily soiled.
To ensure your suede boots stay looking great and last longer, waterproofing them is essential. This will protect them from moisture, dirt, and stains.
Though there are commercial waterproofing solutions available, there are some natural methods that are just as effective and more environmentally friendly.
This article will discuss two such home remedies – using a colorless candle and beeswax – to waterproof your suede boots.
What Is Waterproofing?
Waterproofing is a process used to protect fabrics and other materials from damage caused by moisture. It preserves the material, thus extending its life and keeping it looking newer for longer.
It is important to note that suede is not a waterproof material, so it must be treated with some form of a waterproofing solution in order to protect it from water damage.
What Happens if You Don’t Waterproof Your Suede Boots?
Without waterproofing, your suede boots are prone to the following;
Water Damage:
Suede can easily absorb water, which can cause it to weaken and break down over time. Water stains are also hard to remove from suede.
Stains:
Dirt and other debris can easily be picked up when walking with your boots, leading to stains that may not come out.
Fading:
Suede boots are prone to fading if it is not waterproofed. Moisture will gradually strip away the color and leave your boots looking dull.
Musty Smell:
If suede is not waterproofed and gets wet, it can develop a musty smell that is unpleasant. This is due to bacteria growth.
These are just a few of the potential problems that you may face if you don’t waterproof your suede boots. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect them from water damage and other hazards.
How To Waterproof Your Suede Boots
Method 1: Using Colorless Candle
The colorless candle method is an effective and low-cost way of waterproofing suede boots. This process is simple to do, but it does require patience for the wax to set properly.
Materials Needed:
- Colorless candle
- Suede brush
- Clean cloth
- Hair dryer
Instructions:
Step 1: Clean the Suede Boots
- Thoroughly clean the suede boots using a suede brush to remove dirt and debris.
- Make sure the boots are dry before proceeding with the waterproofing process.
Step 2: Rub the Suede Boots
- Gently rub the colorless candle over the surface of the suede boots.
- Make sure to thoroughly rub the candle all over the boots, paying extra attention to the seams and stitching.
Step 3: Melt the Candle In
- With the help of the hair dryer, melt the wax into the suede.
- Be careful not to overheat or burn the boots.
- Move the hair dryer over the candle application until the wax is melted into the suede.
Step 4: Leave To Dry
- Allow the boots to cool and dry for a few hours, then use a suede brush to restore the texture of the boots.
Step 5: Test The Waterproofing
- Test the waterproofing by sprinkling some water on the surface of the boots.
- If it beads up and rolls off, your waterproofing is successful!
Method 2: Using Beeswax
The second method is similar to the first, but instead of a colorless candle, this technique uses beeswax.
Beeswax is known for its waterproofing properties, making it an excellent choice for suede boots if you know how to use it properly.
Materials Needed:
- Beeswax
- Suede brush
- Clean cloth
- Hairdryer
Instructions:
Step 1: Clean the Suede Boots
- Thoroughly clean the suede boots using a suede brush to remove dirt and debris.
- Make sure the boots are dry before proceeding with the waterproofing process.
Step 2: Warm the Beeswax
- Warm the beeswax in a double boiler or using a hairdryer on low heat until it softens.
Step 3: Apply the Beeswax
- Apply the softened beeswax evenly over the entire surface of the boots using a clean cloth or your fingers, paying extra attention to the seams and stitching.
Step 4: Apply Low Heat
- Use a hairdryer on low heat to melt the beeswax into the suede, making sure not to use high heat.
Step 5: Allow To Cool and Dry
- Use the suede brush to restore the texture and appearance of the boots. Allow them to cool and dry for a few hours before testing the waterproofing.
Step 6: Test The Waterproofing
- Test the waterproofing by sprinkling some water on the surface of the boots.
- If it beads up and rolls off, your waterproofing process is successful!
Important Tips For Waterproofing Suede Boots
- When waterproofing your suede boots, make sure to use the right materials for the job.
- Avoid using any harsh chemicals, such as silicone sprays, as these can damage the surface of your boots.
- Also, avoid using oil-based products on the leather upper part of your boots.
- Oil will leave a greasy residue that can damage the suede.
- It can also make your suede surface uneven.
- Finally, make sure to use a colorless candle or beeswax for the waterproofing process.
- This will ensure that your boots remain looking their best after the treatment.
With these tips in mind, you should now have all the knowledge needed to waterproof suede boots naturally and effectively!
Final Thoughts
Waterproofing your suede boots is an essential step in preserving them for years of wear.
Using either the colorless candle or beeswax techniques ensures that your boots will stay dry and look great for a long time.
Be sure to follow these steps carefully, check on the waterproofing regularly, and enjoy your stylish new footwear!