Leather is one of the most common materials used to produce a variety of personal accessories - from shoes and bags, to jackets and wallets. Thanks to it's durability, leather can withstand prolonged use while maintaining it's integrity for many years, and sometimes decades. You likely have at least one leather item, whether it's an item of clothing or a family heirloom, that seems to have a character of it's own as it ages. While leather can get better with age, there are certain care notes you should keep in mind to ensure longevity of your cherished leather goods.

Understanding Leather

It is wise to understand the material characteristics to best equip yourself with the knowledge and expertise to handle your leather goods with proper care. Most importantly, leather is a natural material that is porous in nature. Similar to your skin, leather is a skin of it’s own with the ability to absorb, retain and lose moisture. Additionally, while leather is durable, it is not immune to wear and has the ability to stretch, be scratched or soiled. With that said, there are a few specific care notes to keep in mind.

Leather Care Guidelines

Over time as your leather goods are used, the leather can change in appearance, and is somewhat dependent on elements the leather is exposed to. Firstly, exposure to sun can cause leather to dry, lose moisture, or become more dull in appearance. Avoiding direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight or other UV lights can help to minimize any possible effects of sun damage. On the note of moisture, leather also has the ability to absorb liquids, oils, and perfumes. This is important to keep in mind because something as simple as the natural oils on your hand can have an effect on a leather product that is handled often. While it is expected that you will handle your leather goods, it is important to be mindful if your hands have lotion on them, or perhaps are soiled/dirty from other activities like cleaning products or food. 

How To Clean Your Leather Goods

No matter how cautious you are when handling your leather goods, sometimes accidents happen - like spills, slips, or scratches. The good news is there are certain remedies available to alleviate some unwanted wear. In the case of dirt, leather can be easily cleaned with a dry or lightly dampened lint-free cloth. It is best to gently wipe the leather surface first with a dry cloth to remove any substantial residue, and then use a very lightly moistened cloth afterwards to loosen any stubborn dirt. Other visible signs of wear such as scratches can be alleviated using just your finger, by rubbing the area in a circular motion. Different finishes of leather may also handle more advanced forms of treatments like the use of a leather brush for suede, or a leather conditioner. Before using any products other than a dry or dampened cloth, it is best to consult with us or a local leather expert.

Adding a touch of elegance to any item, leather can provide a premium feel and aesthetic superior to alternative materials. By following the above guidelines, you can ensure your leather products remain in their best possible condition for an extended period of time. With proper care, we hope you take pride in and enjoy your leather goods for years to come. If ever you have any questions in regards to your leather goods, we would love to talk with you as leather is truly a passion of ours.