What happens if synthetic leather gets wet?
If synthetic leather gets wet, several things can happen.
First, when it gets wet, the appearance of the synthetic leather might change. The surface could become darker in color as it absorbs the water initially. For example, if you have a synthetic leather bag and it gets caught in the rain, you’ll notice that it looks a bit different than when it’s dry. It might lose its shiny or smooth look and seem duller for a while.
As the water stays on the synthetic leather or seeps into it, the texture can also be affected. It might feel a bit soggy or softer than usual. This is because the water is filling up the spaces between the fibers or layers of the material. If it’s a piece of synthetic leather used in shoes, you might feel that it’s not as firm under your feet as it was before getting wet.
Moreover, if the wet synthetic leather isn’t dried properly, there can be problems. Mold might start to grow on it if it stays damp for a long time. You could see little black or green spots appearing on the surface, especially in areas that are not well ventilated. For instance, if you leave a wet synthetic leather jacket in a dark and stuffy closet, it’s more likely to develop mold.
The color of the synthetic leather can fade over time if it gets wet frequently. The water and any chemicals or impurities in it can react with the dyes used on the synthetic leather, causing the color to become lighter or less vibrant. If you have a synthetic leather wallet that often gets splashed with water, you’ll probably notice that its color starts to look washed out after a while.
Also, the durability of the synthetic leather can decrease. The water can weaken the bonds between the different components of the material. The edges might start to peel or crack more easily once it has been wet and dried multiple times. For example, on a synthetic leather belt that has been wet a few times and then dried in the sun, you might see the edges starting to fray or split.
In conclusion, when synthetic leather gets wet, it can experience changes in appearance, texture, and durability, and there’s a risk of mold growth if not dried and cared for properly.
