Seasonal Leather Care - Protecting against October Rain

Autumn's effect on leather

As October arrives with its unpredictable skies and rain, it’s the perfect time to prepare your leather pieces for the season ahead.

Leather is a natural, breathing material, beautiful but also sensitive to water. When caught in the rain, it can absorb water through its tiny pores, leading to dark marks, stiffness, or even cracks over time.

Applying a light protective layer to your bag before the rainy weather arrives helps it resist water and stay smooth throughout the season.

In this edition of our Seasonal Leather Care series, we’ll walk you through a simple four-step ritual to protect your leather from October rain - demonstrated with our Fiona Bag Small.

A little care before the rain makes all the difference. Prevent stiffness, dull patches, and surface cracks by following this simple four-step rain protection routine, plus read about mistakes to avoid, additional advice, and FAQs. 

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Know Your Leather Before You Begin

Not all leathers react the same way to rain - some are naturally more resilient, while others absorb moisture in seconds. Understanding your leather type helps you choose the right product and apply the right level of care.

To keep your leather pieces safe, always use a specialized protective spray made for delicate or unfinished leathers, and reapply it regularly throughout the wet season.

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What You’ll Need

• 2–3 soft cloths: Clean, dry microfiber or cotton cloths for wiping and applying.

• Leather protection product: A quality protector spray works for most smooth leathers. For suede or nubuck, use a suede-specific spray. Beeswax-based creams or waxes are ideal for finished leathers.

• A ventilated area: Apply sprays outdoors or in a well-ventilated space.

• A bit of time: Around 2 hours to let your bag dry naturally before use.

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Your 4-Step Guide to Rain Protection

Step 1: Clean & Prep

Before applying any product, gently wipe away dust or dirt with a soft, dry cloth. The leather must be clean and completely dry - this ensures the product can form an even, effective layer. Any residue left behind can block the protective layer.

Pay extra attention to handles, seams, and stitching, where residue often builds up.

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Step 2: Test First

Not all leathers react the same way. Try your spray or wax on a hidden area to check for color changes. If the color remains unchanged and the texture feels smooth, it’s safe to proceed.

Additional tip: Apply a small amount of spray or wax, for example, under a flap or on the bottom of the bag, and wait a few minutes.

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Step 3: Apply the Protective Layer

Spray the surface about 15–20 cm away. If using a wax, apply a thin layer with a soft cloth in gentle circular motions. Cover the entire surface, including edges, seams, and straps.

Additional tip: Mist evenly in smooth strokes - two light passes are better than one heavy one.

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Step 4: Wait 

Leave your piece to dry naturally for a few hours before using it. Once dry, you can gently refresh the surface with a clean cloth for a soft finish.

Additional tip: Reapply the treatment every few weeks during rainy months, or after cleaning the bag. For new bags, it’s best to apply protection right away.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the test: Always test on a hidden spot before treating the full surface.

• Applying too much: Heavy coats can leave marks or a sticky residue. Use thin, even layers.

• Using the wrong product: Always choose products designed for your specific leather type.

• Using heat to dry: Let leather air-dry naturally, as heat can cause cracks or shrinkage.

• Assuming full protection: No treatment makes leather fully waterproof - it simply resists moisture better.

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FAQs

Can leather get wet?
Yes, leather can handle a small amount of water, but if it soaks in, it can cause stains, stiffness, or cracks. That’s why it’s important to protect it before rainy weather begins.

How often should I re-apply protection?
For frequently used bags, re-apply every few weeks during wet seasons.

Should I protect a new leather bag right away?
Yes, it’s best to treat your leather before first use. This helps create an invisible shield that keeps water from soaking in and staining the surface.

Does rain protection make leather completely waterproof?
No leather is 100% waterproof. A protective layer makes it water-resistant, meaning it can handle light to moderate rain. For heavy downpours, it’s still best to use an umbrella or keep your bag tucked under your coat.

Do all leathers need the same care?
No, soft, natural leathers (like nubuck or vegetable-tanned) absorb water more easily and need more frequent protection. Finished or coated leathers resist water better but still benefit from an occasional treatment.

Can I use home remedies like oils or creams?
It’s not recommended. Household products like olive oil or milk can stain or clog the leather’s pores. Always use a product made specifically for leather care.

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Summary

• Clean before applying any product.

• Test first, even with familiar sprays.

• Apply a thin, even coat and let it dry completely.

• Reapply regularly, especially in wet months.

• Adjust care based on your leather type.

A few mindful minutes now mean years of wear later.
Prepare your bag before the next rain, and enjoy October’s changing skies without worry.

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Continue Seasonal Leather Care

Missed last month’s post? Read our September Edition – Conditioning to learn how to restore softness and glow before sealing in that protection.

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Featured Piece: Fiona Bag Small

Throughout this guide, we used the Fiona Bag Small to demonstrate our October ritual.
Its smooth, natural leather and timeless silhouette make it the perfect companion, and the perfect reason to give your bag a little extra care this season.