SecondWind - Mink Oil FAQ

MINK OIL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. Why is it necessary to condition new leather boots?
A. During the tanning process, the leather tanneries remove the natural oils from the leather. Sometimes the leather tanneries put the proper oils back into the leather. Unfortunately, the retail price of the boots will not indicate whether the leather has been properly re-oiled at the leather tanneries. New leather can be very stiff and not feel very comfortable on the feet. Mink Oil will improve the comfort of new boots by helping the leather flex better. Also, unprotected, unfinished leather can easily become permanently damaged by water, salt or other substances if it is not protected first.

Q. Will it help to wear my new boots around the house (break them in) for a few hours, before applying the Mink Oil?
A. Yes. We also recommend that you wipe off the surface of the leather boots as this will help to remove the protective coating used by many manufacturers to make them look better on the store shelves. This will help the leather to better absorb the Mink Oil.

Q. Why does the leather dry out and need conditioning?
A. During normal use, the oils in the leather wear off, evaporate or are washed away. Because of this, it is important to replace these oils periodically.

Q. How does the Mink Oil product condition the leather?
A. The Mink Oil is able to penetrate the outer surface of the leather and get between the fibers. This keeps the leather fibers from filing against each other and creating cracks and premature breakdown. Also treating leather with Mink Oil will help reduce cuts & scrapes from sharp objects and damage from dry rot.

Q. Is the Mink Oil a water-repellent too?
A. Yes, the Mink Oil is a water-repellent and a conditioner.

Q. Will the Mink Oil change the color of my leather boots?
A. Probably so. The Mink Oil will generally make most leather boots a darker, richer color.

Q. Does the Mink Oil really have mink oil in it?
A. Yes. Mink oil is a fat by-product of the tanning factories. If not used as a conditioner, it would probably go to waste. We combine mink oil & other essential oils into one product to condition leather boots and shoes.

Q. Can I use the Mink Oil on all my boots?
A. Mink Oil should only be used on the smooth finished leather parts of boots, but never on the suede or nubuck.

Q. What should I do if all of the Mink Oil does not completely soak in?
A. If possible, allow the Mink Oil to soak in overnight at warm room temperature. If there is any excess oil, wipe off with a clean paper towel or a lint free cloth.

Q. Should I use a hair-dryer or other types of heat sources to apply the Mink Oil?
A. It is not necessary. At warm room temperature, Mink Oil will apply nicely to the leather. You can however, use a hair-drier to pre-warm the boots, but only to warm room temperature. This will help open up the pores of the leather. Be very careful NOT to get the boots too hot, as damage to the leather, water-proof liner, glue (delamination) and your skin may occur. Once the boots are warm, there is no need to continue to use the hair-drier.

Q. How often should I apply the Mink Oil on my leather boots?
A. Apply Mink Oil when the boots are new, after every cleaning, when the leather looks dry or when the leather shows signs of water penetration.