Leather Lotion 4.0 oz vs Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather: 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 Waterproofing Wax for Leather

PFAS grade

F 20/100

Overall grade

F 12/100

Verdict

Skip

Hazard flags

⚑ 2

Material

wax-based leather treatment

Confidence

72%

PossibleVolatile organic compounds (VOCs) from solvents

PossibleRespiratory sensitization from undisclosed fragrance or biocides

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