Ever pulled your leather wallet out of the wash, drenched and misshapen, and wondered if it’s ruined? Many people don't realize how vulnerable leather is to water. Discover how to rescue and restore it with our simple, effective steps.

Is a Leather Wallet Ruined if It Gets Wet?

A leather wallet is not necessarily ruined if it gets wet, but it can be damaged if not handled properly. 

When a leather wallet gets wet, it absorbs water, which makes the fibers swell and lose their shape. As it dries, the leather can become stiff and brittle, losing its natural softness. You might notice stains or water spots, and the color can change or darken. Over time, the leather can even crack if it dries out too much. 

But don’t you worry! Follow our easy steps to restore your leather wallet properly.

How to Save a Wet Leather Wallet? 

Blot Excess Water

1. Gently press a soft, dry cloth against the wet wallet.
2. Blot repeatedly to absorb as much water as possible.
3. Avoid rubbing to prevent pushing water deeper into the leather.

Let It Air Dry

1. Place the wallet in a cool, dry area.
2. Allow it to air dry at room temperature.
3. Keep it away from heat sources like hairdryers, heaters, or direct sunlight to avoid rapid drying and cracking.

Reshape While Damp

1. Gently reshape the wallet by hand if it has lost its form.
2. Open the wallet and insert dry paper towels or a clean, dry cloth.
3. Adjust the contents to help the wallet hold its shape but avoid overstuffing.

Apply a Leather Conditioner

1. Once the wallet is completely dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a soft cloth.
2. Gently rub the conditioner into the leather in circular motions.
3. Let the wallet absorb the conditioner for the recommended time on the product label.

Buff with a Soft Cloth

1. After conditioning, take a clean, soft cloth.
2. Buff the surface of the wallet gently to restore its shine and smoothness.
3. Use light, circular motions to avoid damaging the leather.

Special Handling and Care for Different Types of Leather Wallets When They Get Wet

Different types of leather require special attention when they get wet. Here’s what you need to know:

Full-Grain Leather

• Avoid using too much conditioner. Full-grain leather is dense and doesn't need excessive products.
• Keep it away from abrasive surfaces to prevent scratches while drying.

Top-Grain Leather

• Avoid heat exposure. Top-grain leather is slightly more processed and can become stiff if dried too quickly.
• Use a conditioner specifically made for top-grain leather to maintain its flexibility.

Genuine Leather

• Genuine leather is more prone to damage. Do not twist or bend while it's wet.
• Condition it thoroughly after drying to restore its natural oils.

Suede Leather

• Suede is delicate. Do not rub it while wet to avoid damaging the nap.
• Use a suede brush after it dries to restore its texture.

Nubuck Leather

• Similar to suede, nubuck should not be rubbed while wet.
• Use a nubuck cleaner once it’s dry to preserve its soft texture.

Exotic Leather (e.g., Alligator, Snake)

• Exotic leathers are sensitive to water. Pat dry gently and avoid excessive pressure.
• Use a conditioner specifically formulated for exotic leathers to prevent discoloration and maintain texture.

Patent Leather

• Avoid abrasive cloths to prevent scratching the shiny finish.
• If it develops water spots, use a damp cloth to gently wipe the surface, then buff it with a dry cloth.

Bonded Leather

• Bonded leather is less durable. Handle it gently to avoid separating the layers.
• Light conditioning is necessary, but avoid over-conditioning.

What Happens if Leather Wallet Went Through Washer and Dryer?

If your leather wallet accidentally goes through the washer and dryer, it can get pretty messed up. The washing machine will soak the leather, making it stiff, warped, and possibly discolored. Then, the heat from the dryer can make it even worse by causing the leather to crack and shrink. 

It's tough to restore a leather wallet after it's been through the washer and dryer. Even though you can take steps to try and fix it, the results might not be perfect, and the wallet may not return to its original condition.

How Can You Tell if A Leather Wallet Is Ruined?

A leather wallet might be ruined if it has noticeable cracks, deep stains that won't come out, or if it's become misshapen. If the leather feels dry and stiff, even after trying to condition it, that's also a sign it's past its prime.

What Is the Best Way to Get Water Out of Leather?

The best way to get water out of leather is to gently pat it dry with a soft cloth and let it air dry naturally. Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers. Apply a leather conditioner after drying to restore its moisture and flexibility.

Can You Wear True Leather Wallet in the Rain?

No, it's not recommended to wear a true leather wallet in the rain, as water can damage the leather, causing it to become stiff, discolored, or even moldy.

Does Fake Leather Wallet Get Ruined When Wet?

Yes, fake leather (also known as faux leather) can get damaged when wet. It may lose its texture, crack, or peel if exposed to water for extended periods. It's best to keep it dry and clean with a damp cloth if necessary.

Summary

Though you can somewhat rescue your leather wallet with our simple steps, it’s better to pay more attention to not getting it wet. A leather wallet can be both durable and prone to damage. 

If your leather wallet is still not restored with these steps, consider buying a new leather wallet at Zitahli, where we offer premium full-grain and top-grain leather wallets like our best-selling product below: