Owning a pair of leather shoes (and an authentic one at that) is unlike any other footwear experience. And while they elevate any outfit, they come with a price tag that demands respect. The look, the feel, the craftsmanship – it all signals quality. But that same quality can take a hit fast the moment your shoes get soaked in a downpour or splashed in a puddle.
Luckily, you don’t have to stare at them and hope for the best until tomorrow. Acting fast is what saves the supple feel and rich color you fell in love with. Here’s exactly what to do as soon as your leather shoes get wet.
1 of 5 | Get the Moisture Off Gently
Speed is crucial, but pressure is not. As soon as your shoes are soaked, your first priority is to remove excess water, but not at the expense of the leather’s integrity. Skip anything abrasive, like rubbing with towels or applying pressure, which could grind moisture deep into the grain or damage the finish.
Do this instead:
- Blot, don’t rub. Use a soft, absorbent cloth or clean microfiber towel to blot away moisture on the surface.
- Start from top to bottom. Focus on the tongue, seams, and collar where water tends to collect.
- Avoid paper towels. They may leave residue or break apart on contact.
Timeline: Do this immediately within the first 10 minutes of exposure.
2 of 5 | Take Everything Out and Open Them Up
Leather can’t breathe if it’s sealed shut. Once you’ve gently removed surface moisture, it’s time to open up the shoe to prevent interior moisture from trapping inside. This step is vital if you’re wearing boots, dress shoes, or leather sneakers with thicker linings or insoles.
What to remove and why:
- Insoles and laces. Take them out to promote airflow and dry time. Insoles, especially memory foam, can retain a lot of moisture.
- Tongues and folds. Fully open and pull apart the shoe to expose hidden wet spots.
- Interior debris. Remove any dirt or grit that could cause abrasion as the leather dries.
Timeline: Within 30 minutes of getting wet.
3 of 5 | Reinforce Shape from the Inside
Leather takes on whatever shape it dries in, so you need to guide it. Once soaked, your shoes are at risk of shrinking, curling, or collapsing in strange ways. That’s why stuffing them correctly during the drying phase is more than cosmetic, it’s structural support.
Stuff and shape with care:
- Use acid-free tissue or clean cotton rags. Avoid newspapers as the ink can transfer.
- Fill gently. Don’t overstuff – you’re supporting the shape, not stretching it.
- Replace stuffing every few hours. It’ll soak up moisture and lose effectiveness.
Timeline: As soon as shoes are opened and moisture is blotted – no more than an hour after they’ve gotten wet.
4 of 5 | Air Dry But Never Use Heat
This is the most misunderstood step. While it’s tempting to “speed up” the drying process, using direct heat like a hairdryer, radiator, or even sunlight can cause irreversible cracking and shrinkage. Leather is a natural material, and it needs time to dry evenly.
Dry safely and evenly:
- Place shoes in a dry, ventilated area. A fan works well for air circulation.
- Keep them away from heat vents, windows, or sunlight.
- Allow 24–48 hours. Patience pays off for better results and no warping.
Timeline tip: Drying begins right after shaping. Let it run for at least a full day.
5 of 5 | Restore and Protect the Leather
Water exposure strips the leather of natural oils. Even if your shoes look okay on the outside, the texture, flexibility, and finish may be compromised unless you condition and protect them afterward. This final step is what separates saved shoes from those that deteriorate.
Post-drying care tips:
- Apply a leather conditioner. Choose one specifically made for your type of leather – suede, nubuck, or full grain.
- Buff gently with a soft cloth. This reintroduces moisture and sheen.
- Top with a water-repellent spray. Choose an environmentally friendly leather protectant that won’t leave plastic-like residue.
Timeline: Apply conditioner only after the shoes are completely dry, usually after 48 hours.
Trust Jan’s Professional Dry Cleaners for Gentle, Effective Leather Treatment
Leather doesn’t forgive moisture easily – cracks, stains, and warped seams are just the beginning. If your favorite boots, jacket, or even suede bag gets soaked, call Jan’s Professional Dry Cleaners right away. Our Leather and Suede Cleaning Service experts know exactly how to reverse water damage, restore softness, and preserve the color and integrity of every stitch.
With advanced cleaning techniques and deep knowledge of leather care, we don’t just clean – we protect, restore, and extend the life of your most valuable leather pieces.
📍 Drop by our Clio location at 130 Griffes St., Clio, MI, 48420 — Call 810-689-1747
📍Or visit us in Frankenmuth at 154 S. Main St., #3, Frankenmuth, MI, 48734 — Call 989-652-2153
📩 You can also email us – we respond within 24 hours.
Trust the leading experts in leather and suede care. Schedule your FREE pickup today!