Leather is one accessory that is timeless. And if cared for well, it will survive generations. Popular leather items such as belts, jackets, and especially handbags are usually considered investment purchases. But like any investment, they require a degree of care and maintenance. If you want your leather to age gracefully, this is a handy, no-nonsense guide to walk you through increasing its lifespan.
Understand What Type of Leather You’re Working with
All leathers are not created equal. Before cleaning your leather goods, or applying any type of product, your first move should be figuring out the kind of leather you are dealing with. The different types are:
- Full-grain leather, which is top of the line.
- Top-grain leather, which is slightly more processed.
- Genuine leather is a bit lower on the quality spectrum.
- Suede or nubuck, both of which are particularly delicate.
If you’re not sure what you’ve got, it’s worth calling the store that you purchased it from. Any leather goods store NYC, for instance, should be able to let you know what you have and what can safely be applied.
Keep It Clean, But Don’t Overdo It
Cleaning leather seems easy, but there is a balance to maintain. You don’t want to be scrubbing too vigorously or applying harsh chemicals. For routine care, a soft, slightly wet cloth is sufficient to wipe away dust.
For more thorough cleaning, use a leather cleaner. Test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the item first. Use it gently applied on a cloth, and then allow the item to air dry in the shade – no direct sunlight or heat here.
Condition to Avoid Dryness and Cracks
Leather requires moisture, just like our skin. Without it, leather will dry out, crack, and become rigid. Conditioning keeps it soft and pliable.
A general rule of thumb is to condition leather around twice a year. You’ll only need to do it more if you reside in an extremely dry climate. Use a good leather conditioner and apply it sparingly. Rub it in gently with circular motions using a clean cloth. Remember not to over-condition. Too much product will clog the pores of the leather and leave a sticky finish.
Store It Properly
Where and how you place your leather items matters: store them in a dry, cool place out of direct sunlight, which will cause color to fade and dry out the material. Plastic covers are also a no-no as they retain moisture, which can then lead to mildew. Use cotton or muslin bags instead for their breathability. In a pinch, try a pillowcase.
When storing bags or shoes, stuff them with tissue paper to help them hold their shape. For leather jackets, use padded hangers to avoid stretching out the shoulders.
Protect It From Water and Stains
Leather doesn’t like water much; while some varieties can tolerate a little bit of it, try to avoid it if you can. Apply a leather protector or water repellent spray if you’re in a place with a strong chance of rain.
If your leather does become wet, blot the water off with a dry cloth or tissue and allow it to air-dry at room temperature. Do not place it in front of a heater – you don’t need to rush the process.
If your leather gets stained, move quickly. The longer a stain remains, the more difficult it is to remove. For oil-based stains, sprinkle a little cornstarch or talcum powder over the area to soak up the oil, then let it sit overnight before brushing it off.
Take It to the Professionals When Needed
There are instances when DIY simply won’t work, and that’s when the professionals come in. With deep stains, scuffs, or zipper and stitching repairs, it’s sometimes better to let them take over. A leather professional can revive worn pieces and stop further damage from happening. Some brand, like Leather New York, offer lifetime repairs. Make use of warranties to keep your items going the distance.
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Well-cared-for leather lasts longer and can even become more attractive with age. With a little time and the right approach, your leather goods can stay in great shape for decades. Keep them clean, moisturized, protected, and stored well, and you’ll enjoy them for years to come.
The Bizz Wire 