Does Mink Oil Waterproof Leather Boots: & Best Alternatives

Does Mink Oil Waterproof Leather Boots?

Mink oil is a popular leather treatment that many people use for various reasons on their leather boots. But does mink oil actually waterproof the leather boots? In this article, we will take a look at the evidence and find out if mink oil really does the job.

When properly used, mink oil can be used to make leather boots water-resistant but not waterproof. Mink oil creates a barrier on the surface of the leather that helps to repel water. However, it is important to note that mink oil is not a cure-all solution, and it will not make your boots completely waterproof.

Stick around as I shed more light on this topic and help you make a decision on whether or not mink oil is right for your leather boots.

How Water-Resistant Does Mink Oil Make Leather?

While mink oil will not make your boots completely waterproof, it will provide some protection from spills, stains, and the elements and help to prolong the life of your boots.

Mink oil works by creating a barrier on the surface of the leather that helps to repel water and other types of moisture.

This barrier is not permanent, and it will need to be reapplied on a regular basis in order to maintain its effectiveness.

The type of “waterproofing” mink oil gives your leather boots is similar to the type of waterproofing you would get from a spray-on water repellant.

It’s important to note that even though mink oil will provide some protection against the elements, it is not a substitute for proper waterproofing of your leather boots.

Your leather boots will still need to be treated with a waterproofing agent such as beeswax, paraffin wax, or silicon-based waterproofing spray in order to be fully protected from the elements.

Best Mink Oil Alternatives For Waterproofing Leather Boots

Right on queue, one of my readers asks:

“Do I still need to use a waterproofing spray if I treat my boots with mink oil?”

The answer is yes, you will still need to use a waterproofing material in addition to treating your boots with mink oil.

So let’s take a look at some of the best alternatives to mink oil for waterproofing your leather boots.

1. Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural waterproofing agent that has been used for centuries to protect the leather from the elements.

Using beeswax is great because it is the best treatment you can even give to any type of leather boots that see a lot of heavy use.

Beeswax, in my opinion, is the most durable waterproofing treatment you can give your leather boots, and it will also help to preserve the leather.

When applied to leather, beeswax creates a thick, waterproof barrier that helps to repel water and moisture.

Beeswax is also very effective at conditioning leather and helping to prevent cracking and premature aging.

To waterproof your leather boots using beeswax, here are the steps you can follow;

Step One:

  • Make sure to start by cleaning your leather thoroughly with a good leather cleaner.
  • Doing this first will help to remove any dirt, grime, or salt that could potentially damage your leather.
  • Cleaning the leather boots first also allows the beeswax to adhere to the leather better.

Step Two:

  • Once your leather boots are clean, make sure to thoroughly dry the freshly cleaned leather boots before proceeding to the next step.
  • If your leather boots are even slightly damp, the beeswax will not be able to adhere properly, and your efforts will be in vain.

Step Three:

  • Now that your leather is clean and dry, you can condition it with some mink oil or jump straight ahead to treat it with beeswax, as it also has some conditioning properties.

Step Four:

  • To apply the beeswax to your leather boots, melt the wax first by using a double boiler method.
  • If you don’t have a double boiler, you can also melt the wax in a metal container placed inside a pot of boiling water.
  • Do not attempt to melt the beeswax directly on an open flame, as this can potentially damage the wax and make it less effective.
  • You can also slightly warm up your leather boots with a hair dryer to help open the pores of the leather before applying the beeswax.

Step Five:

  • Once the beeswax is melted, take a clean cloth and dip it into the wax. Make sure to wring out any excess wax before proceeding to the next step.

Step Six:

  • Now that you have your cloth saturated with beeswax, it’s time to apply it to your leather boots.
  • Start by applying the wax to one small section at a time, and then work the wax into the leather.
  • Be sure to apply an even layer of beeswax over the entire surface of your leather boots.

Step Seven:

  • Once you have applied the beeswax to your leather boots, allow it to dry for at least 30 minutes to an hour before proceeding to the next step.

Step Eight:

  • After the beeswax has had time to dry, you can now buff it out with a clean cloth.
  • This will help to create a nice, even finish.

Step Nine:

  • After you have buffed out the beeswax, your leather boots should now have a nice, waterproof coating.

You can check out my favorite beeswax over here on Amazon!

2. Silicon-Based Waterproofing Spray

If you are looking for a more affordable option, you can also use a silicon-based waterproofing spray.

Silicon-based waterproofing sprays work great and will help to repel water and moisture from your leather boots.

The only downside to using a silicon-based waterproofing spray is that it does not condition or protect your leather the way beeswax does.

The silicon-based waterproofing spray is also not the most durable option, so it will need to be reapplied more often than beeswax.

To waterproof your leather boots using a silicon-based spray, here are the steps you can follow;

Step One:

  • First, clean your leather boots thoroughly with a good leather cleaner.
  • This will help to remove any dirt, salt, or other debris that may be on the surface of your boots.

Step Two:

  • Next, apply a generous amount of mink oil or leather conditioner to help condition the leather boots.
  • Rub the mink oil into the leather in a circular motion until it is fully absorbed.
  • Allow the mink oil or leather conditioner to absorb into the leather for at least 30 minutes and leave it to dry.

Step Three:

  • Next, apply the silicon-based waterproofing spray to your leather boots.
  • Be sure to apply the waterproofing spray evenly across the surface of your boots.
  • Allow the spray to dry for at least 30 minutes before wearing your boots.

Important Tips To Remember When Waterproofing Leather Boots

  • Always unlace your leather boots before treatment–it doesn’t matter what kind of waterproof you use.
  • Apply a seam sealer to your leather boots after you’re done applying the waterproofer, not before, and make sure it completely cures.
  • It is best to waterproof your leather boots on hot sunny days so that the waterproofing agent can completely penetrate the leather.
  • Do not forget to re-apply the waterproofing agent on your leather boots every few months or as often as needed, depending on how often you use them.
  • Make sure to store your leather boots in a cool, dry place when not in use.
  • Last but not least, always follow the instruction on the label of whatever waterproofing agent you use.

How Often Should You Waterproof Leather Boots

Depending on the waterproofing material you choose to use, you will need to re-apply it more or less often.

For example, if you choose to use beeswax, you can expect it to last for several months before needing to be reapplied.

If you choose a silicon-based waterproofing spray, you will need to apply it after about a week or two, depending on how often you use your leather boots.

On the other hand, “waterproofing” your leather boots with mink oil would only last only a few days or hours in most cases.

In general, it is best to waterproof your leather boots at least once every few months to help keep them in good condition and prevent water damage.

You may need to waterproof them more often if you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow.

Final Thoughts

Waterproofing your leather boots is a great way to help extend their lifespan and keep them looking good for years to come.

Hopefully, this article has helped to answer the question; does mink oil waterproof leather boots? There are a few different options you can choose from when it comes to waterproofing your leather boots.

Each option has its own set of pros and cons, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Always remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when waterproofing your leather boots, and if you have any questions, be sure to leave me a message!

Happy waterproofing!

Kwabena

Hi! I’m Kwabena, the owner and founder of Favored Leather. I’m a huge Leathercraft enthusiast and I’ve been that for almost 13 years now. I'm excited to share my experiences and all the new stuff I learn each day about leather craft, leather cleaning & care, and everything in-between!

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