How To Care For Leather
Leather has uniquely beautiful characteristics.
How leather ages is entirely dependent on how it's treated, but with care, it will get better with age...
Natural or vegetable tanned leather will darken from contact with exterior factors such as skin oils, dirt, UV exposure, etc and gain a precious patina.
Always handle your leather with clean hands.
Oil and residue will easily transfer to leather.
1. IF YOUR LEATHER GETS WET, DRY IT.
Gently blot (not rub!) excess water as soon as possible, and allow the rest to air dry. Do not use a heat source to speed up the drying. When drying a bag, stuff the inside with newspaper to help the bag hold its shape and to help absorb moisture from the interior.
2. IF YOUR LEATHER GETS TOO DRY, CONDITION IT.
Massage a high-quality leather conditioner into the leather and use a clean cloth to gently wipe off excess conditioner.
3. IF YOUR LEATHER GETS DIRTY, CLEAN IT.
Briskly sweep your leather bag with a soft, dry, or slightly damp cloth. Once or twice a year, remove dirt buildup by wiping down your leather bag with a leather cleaner. Apply in a circular motion, and wipe off with a slightly damp cloth to avoid clogging the pores of the leather.
4. IF YOUR LEATHER ISN’T BEING USED, STORE IT.
Proper storage is important when caring for leather. Store leather in a space away from heat, humidity, sunlight, and dust - preferably in a fabric (not plastic!) bag and/or box. Air leather bags, jackets, and luggage once every few weeks to prevent mold growth.
When you care for leather properly, it will become more beautiful, rugged, and interesting over time, echoing its adventures—and yours.