Leather is one of the most durable materials available. In fact, with a little bit of TLC, most leather products can last more than 20 years.
Compared to cheap plastic alternatives which last a year if you’re careful, it’s well worth the investment. But you will need to work to keep your leather goods in pristine condition.
Here are a few simple leather care tips to help you keep your favorite leather accessories looking as good as the day you brought them home.
Keep It Dry
Water won’t hurt your leather, but it can stain it. And stains are tough to remove. Whenever possible, keep the leather dry.
Avoid setting your leather accessories in puddles and watch for spills around your gear. Often, a little due diligence is all it takes to prevent unwanted water stains.
If you can’t guarantee that your leather will stay dry, protect it. Use a leather cream or weatherproofing spray to create a barrier against moisture. This will reduce the risk of staining and discoloration.
Don’t Let It Sit in the Sun
Leather can and will dry out if left in a bright sunny spot for days at a time. And this often leads to cracks, discoloration, and stiffness.
If you’re going to store your leather products for a few days, make sure it’s in a cool dark room, closet, or drawer. If you’ve stored your leather goods in the sun in the past or spend a lot of time outside, condition the piece once a month.
This will help keep the leather more supple and less susceptible to cracking.
Clean It Regularly
Leather may be durable, but it requires regular cleaning. Every week or so, use a gentle leather cleaner to wipe away any dust or grime. This helps prevent scratching and scuffing.
Every month or so, condition the leather with a dedicated leather conditioner. The best conditioners are all-natural and rely on oils to bring the leather back to life. Chemical agents and conditioners can dull the leather and increase its risk of stains and damage.
Use It Frequently
Believe it or not, leather is one material that gets better with use. Every time you touch it, you keep the material supple and your own body oils help condition it at least a bit.
Keep in mind that leather will change color over time. Conditioning, cleaning, and use all help darken the material, but this well-worn look should be a mark of pride.
Don’t panic thinking that your leather goods are dirty or damaged just because they’ve darkened over the months. In reality, they’re aging perfectly and show anyone who sees them just how much you enjoy using them.
Follow These Leather Care Tips
Proper leather care is key in keeping your accessories looking their best. And if you follow these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your leather goods for decades to come.
If you’re looking for quality cleaning and conditioning products to take care of your accessories, check out our online store and stock up on the best all-natural products around.