Leather Lotion 4.0 oz vs Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof Spray On: which is safer?

Merrell Leather Lotion 4.0 oz is our pick: better on PFAS and on the overall hazard picture.

Our pick

Merrell

Leather Lotion 4.0 oz

PFAS grade

D 65/100

Overall grade

F 43/100

Verdict

Skip

Hazard flags

⚑ 4

Material

Leather conditioning lotion, composition unspecified

Confidence

45%

ReportedFormulation transparency / undisclosed ingredients

PossibleSkin irritation / sensitization from fragrance or additives

PossibleVolatile organic compounds (VOC) during application

Why this grade

Waterproofing Company

Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof Spray On

PFAS grade

F 45/100

Overall grade

F 37/100

Verdict

Skip

Hazard flags

⚑ 2

Material

Wax-based water-repellent coating treatment (PFAS-free formula)

Confidence

82%

PossibleSolvent inhalation (hydrocarbon vapors)

PossibleSkin or respiratory sensitization from additives

Why this grade

Both products run through the same public rubric: materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls, plus a beyond-PFAS hazard analysis. Grades are model-based estimates, not lab tests. How grades work →

More stain-resistant footwear: see the full ranking