Protect & Care 4001 is a water-based leather waterproofing agent developed by Keck Chimie, a French manufacturer of industrial chemical products based in Ingwiller, Alsace (Bas-Rhin), since 1900. It combines three functions in a single spray application: water protection, nourishing care, and revitalization of dull leather. Suitable for smooth leather, nubuck, textiles and synthetic materials, with full coverage achieved by the next day.

Untreated leather absorbs moisture, marks at the slightest drop of water, and dries out. In the workshop, the lack of a water-repellent treatment can lead to:

• After-sales service returns due to parts that stain or become stiff
• Cosmetic defects on leather stored prior to shipment
• A shorter lifespan for items exposed to the elements
• A perceived decline in quality that impacts the brand’s image

Protect & Care 4001 combines three functions in a single spray application:

• Water-repellent protection that repels water and limits staining
• Nourishing care that conditions the leather and preserves its suppleness
• Revitalizing action that restores the appearance of dull or slightly worn leather

Technical specifications:

• Base: water + natural waxes
• Application: spray gun; shake before use
• Full effect: after 24 hours
• Storage: never below 5°C; store in a cool, dry place
• Shelf life: 6 months in unopened packaging

• Smooth leather: cowhide, calfskin, lambskin; polishing possible after drying
• Nubuck and suede: protects without clumping the fibers and preserves the velvety appearance
• Textile/leather combinations: homogeneous treatment of mixed-material parts
• Synthetic materials: faux leather and coated materials

A test on an inconspicuous area is always essential before full treatment.

“In the workshop, consistency of application is more important than the quantity of product. A thin, even spray applied in two crisscross passes provides better protection than a single thick coat. Always allow 24 hours before shipment: this ensures full waterproofing performance and consistent perceived quality.”

• Leather goods: finishing before shipment, after-sales refurbishment
• Footwear: shoe repair shops, manufacturing workshops, high-end stores
• Saddlery for automotive and equestrian use
• Care workshops: sofas, armchairs and leather jackets

This product is part of Keck Chimie’s range of water-based industrial chemical products, developed by the French manufacturer since 1900. It complements the 4000/1 leather edge finishing gum and the 7006 leather softener for complete leather treatment in production.

How do you waterproof leather in a professional workshop?

Spray a water-based waterproofing agent such as Protect & Care 4001 using a spray gun in crisscross patterns at a distance of 20–30 cm onto clean, dry leather. Allow it to dry at room temperature and wait 24 hours before shipment for full protective performance.

Should waterproofing be applied before or after shoe polish?

Always after polishing. Applied as the final step, the waterproofing product seals the polish, extends its durability, and protects the finish against water and stains.

How do you choose a professional leather waterproofing product?

Choose a professional water-based leather waterproofing product that is compatible with several materials (smooth leather, nubuck, textiles and synthetic materials) and can be applied with a spray gun to meet workshop production rates. Keck Chimie’s Protect & Care 4001 combines all three criteria in a single application.

How long does waterproofing last?

Protection lasts from several weeks to several months depending on exposure to water and intensity of use. An item worn daily in the rain will require more frequent reapplication than a piece stored before shipment.

Can nubuck or suede leather be waterproofed?

Yes. 4001 protects nubuck and suede without clumping the fibers and preserves their velvety appearance. Dry-brushing before application and allowing 24 hours to dry ensures a uniform result.

Is 4001 compatible with textiles and synthetic materials?

Yes. It provides homogeneous treatment of leather/textile combinations as well as synthetic materials such as faux leather and coated materials, avoiding the need to use multiple products in the workshop.

Are you looking to protect, care for and revive your leather in a single professional application?

Contact Keck Chimie. Our teams will help you test Protect & Care 4001 in your production or workshop environment.

Keck Chimie — Industrial Zone, P.O. Box 80006, 67340 Ingwiller (Bas-Rhin), France — Tel. +33 (0)3 88 89 57 33 — info@keck-chimie.fr

▶ Contact us to test 4001 under professional conditions