Can I Get My Leather Wet? Understanding How Water Affects Veg-Tan Leather

Leather is a beautiful, durable, and versatile material, but if you've ever owned a high-quality leather item, you might wonder, Can I get my leather wet? It’s a common question, especially when it comes to the unique type of leather we use here at Sabersmyth: veg-tan leather. This blog post will dive into how water affects this material, how to care for leather if it does get wet, and what you can do to keep your favorite pieces looking their best.

What Is Veg-Tan Leather?

Before we get into the question of water, let's briefly touch on what veg-tan leather is. Veg-tan refers to the vegetable tanning process used to create this leather. It involves using natural tannins found in bark, leaves, and other plant matter to tan the leather, giving it a rich, earthy smell and a beautiful, natural look. Unlike chrome-tanned leather, which is treated with chemicals, veg-tan leather is a more natural and eco-friendly choice, making it ideal for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into each piece.

The unique tanning process also makes veg-tan leather more sensitive to certain elements, including moisture. So, what happens when veg-tan leather comes into contact with water?

What Happens When Veg-Tan Leather Gets Wet?

Veg-tan leather, being more porous than other types, absorbs moisture relatively quickly. This means that if you get your leather wet, the water will soak into the material, causing it to darken temporarily. As the leather dries, it will often return closer to its original color, but you may notice a few changes:

  • Darkening: While the leather may lighten again, water exposure can sometimes leave darker spots or patches where the water soaked in.
  • Stiffness: As veg-tan leather dries, it can become a bit stiffer than before. This is because the fibers in the leather may shift during the drying process.
  • Loss of Shape: If your leather item is molded or shaped in a particular way, getting it wet might cause it to lose its form as it softens, then hardens again in a new shape as it dries.

Is It a Bad Thing to Get Veg-Tan Leather Wet?

The short answer is: not necessarily. Getting veg-tan leather wet isn't automatically a disaster. In fact, many leather artisans, including us here at Sabersmyth, intentionally wet leather for certain processes like shaping and tooling. However, the key difference is control and what happens afterward.

For everyday use, it's best to avoid getting your veg-tan leather excessively wet. A little bit of rain or accidental spill won’t ruin your leather, but frequent exposure to moisture without proper care can lead to long-term issues like cracking or warping.

How to Care for Veg-Tan Leather That Got Wet

If your leather does get wet, don't panic! Follow these simple steps to minimize any potential damage:

  1. Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a clean, dry cloth to gently blot excess water off the surface. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the water deeper into the leather.

  2. Let It Air Dry Slowly: Place the item in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers. Direct heat can cause the leather to crack. Instead, let it dry naturally, which may take some time, but it’s much better for the leather’s integrity.

  3. Moisturize After Drying: Once the leather is dry, use a leather conditioner to restore moisture to the material. This helps to prevent the leather from becoming brittle or cracking. We offer a high-quality leather conditioner designed specifically for veg-tan leather, which helps maintain its natural look and feel. It’s perfect for keeping your leather soft and resilient after exposure to moisture.

  4. Shape It While Wet: If your leather item is something that holds a shape, like a molded strap-on harness or a structured handbag, gently reshape it while it is still damp. This helps it dry in the correct form.

How to Protect Veg-Tan Leather from Water

Prevention is always better than cure. To keep your leather in top shape, consider the following tips for water-proofing:

  • Use a Leather Protector: Applying a water-resistant treatment or leather protector spray can create a barrier against moisture. Keep in mind that these products may darken the leather slightly, so always test on a small area first.

  • Keep It Covered: When possible, keep leather items out of heavy rain or wet conditions. Using a waterproof cover or bag can save your leather from unnecessary exposure.

  • Condition Regularly: Well-moisturized leather is more resistant to the drying effects of water. Conditioning your leather every few months helps maintain its flexibility and keeps it looking beautiful. And don’t forget, our Sabersmyth leather conditioner is formulated to keep your veg-tan pieces in tip-top shape!

Embrace the Patina

One of the charms of veg-tan leather is its ability to develop a patina—a unique, rich, and natural change in color and texture that occurs over time. Water exposure can become part of your leather’s story, adding to the patina and giving your item a one-of-a-kind character. So, while you may want to protect your leather from heavy soaking, don’t stress over every little splash or raindrop. It’s all part of the journey!

The Bottom Line: Can You Get Your Leather Wet?

Yes, you can get your veg-tan leather wet, but it’s best to avoid soaking it or leaving it exposed to moisture for extended periods. A little water won’t ruin your leather, especially if you take care of it properly afterward. By understanding how water affects veg-tan leather and knowing how to treat it, you can keep your leather pieces looking great for years to come.

At Sabersmyth, we love creating pieces that age gracefully and develop character over time, and veg-tan leather is perfect for that. With a bit of care, your leather can last a lifetime, carrying with it the stories of your adventures and experiences. And while our physical showroom is no longer around, you can always shop online and find the perfect tools to care for your leather, including our conditioner.

Got more questions about leather care? Reach out to us anytime. We’re always here to help you get the most out of your handcrafted leather goods. Happy adventuring!