How to Waterproof Pigskin Boots With Mink Oil

Maintaining pigskin leather boots by waterproofing them with mink oil is essential for prolonging their use. Leather can get dry and hard if you don't treat it regularly with mink oil or another type of oil or wax. Working mink oil into the leather approximately every two months -- or more depending upon the amount of usage -- will allow the boots to stay comfortable, flexible and waterproof.

Things You'll Need

  • Chamois cloth or clean flannel rag
  • Brush
  • Water
  • Solvent
  • Fan
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean off any caked on dirt with brush and water or leather cleaning solvent. Allow the boots to dry completely through use of a fan or natural air circulation. Do not heat boots with a hair dryer, clothes dryer or any other means of artificial heat.

    • 2

      Hold the chamois cloth or clean flannel rag over the fingertips of one hand. Dip it into the mink oil so that a generous amount is on the cloth. Rub the cloth and oil onto the surface of the boot. Start at the top or bottom of one side and work your way around. Rub the cloth in circles against the leather until the oil becomes clear and the boot absorbs it.

    • 3

      Work your way over the entire surface of the boot in this method. Add more oil to the cloth as it is absorbed into the boot. Wipe excess oil from the laces with clean cloth. Repeat the process with the other boot.

    • 4

      Allow to dry overnight. Apply a second coat of oil to both boots with the same method.