Myth 1: Leather Doesn't Need Conditioning

Many people persist in believing that leather maintenance doesn’t need to involve conditioning. Nothing could be further from the truth. While leather may hold up reasonably well for a time (in some climates), if left unconditioned, it will eventually show signs of neglect.

Here’s why conditioning is crucial for leather health:

• It helps to prevent dryness and cracking - Leather can become dry and brittle over time. Conditioning helps it to remain subtle and protected from the elements.
• It allows the leather to stay flexible. Conditioning leather maintains flexibility and makes it less prone to breaking.
• It enhances the appearance of the leather - Conditioning regularly helps the leather to stay bright and vibrant, giving it a healthy luster.

These are our top tips for conditioning leather:

First, choose a product that’s designed for leather. Otherwise, choose a natural oil that’s approved for your type of leather. General-purpose moisturizers and conditioners may damage leather. Try to opt for a conditioner with a natural base, as these are usually better for the leather.

Second, consider the type of leather. A more full-grain leather may require a more robust leather, while thinner types of leather may require a more delicate conditioner.

When conditioning the leather, use a soft cloth or sponge, and ensure that the entire product is covered without applying excessively. Allow the conditioner to soak into the leather for 10-20 minutes before buffing the leather with a clean, dry cloth.

Finally, condition the leather once every six to 12 months. Under harsh conditions, consider conditioning as often as every three months.

Myth 2: All Leather is Waterproof

The second myth that we see often is that all leather is waterproof. While there is a certain degree of waterproofing present in leather, it isn’t all-inclusive.

Largely, it depends on the type and quality of the leather. Full-grain leather, for example, has a high degree of natural water resistance due to its dense structure. However, this natural water resistance is often limited and can vary from one piece of leather to the next.

In many cases, makers and producers will treat leather with certain chemicals or waxes to help enhance its water resistance. Even so, these products are rarely fully waterproof.

At the opposite end of the scale is aniline leather, a type of leather that has not been treated with pigments or dyes. Because of this, it is exceptionally susceptible to water damage, and requires a waterproofing treatment to protect it.

Here are some leather care tips for waterproofing leather products:

• Apply a waterproofing spray: Use a waterproofing spray specifically designed for leather. These sprays create a protective barrier on the surface of the leather, helping to repel water.
• Reapply regularly: The effectiveness of waterproofing treatments can diminish over time, especially with frequent use or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Reapply the treatment periodically to maintain protection.
• Avoid soaking leather: Even waterproofed leather can become damaged if it is soaked in water for extended periods. If your leather item gets wet, wipe it off immediately and allow it to air dry.
• Consider additional protection: For items that are frequently exposed to water, you may want to invest in a leather cover or bag to provide extra protection.

Myth 3: Cleaning Leather with Water and Soap is Safe

While leather has varying degrees of waterproofing, that doesn’t necessarily translate to cleaning. This has led to a plethora of common questions like, “Can you clean leather with soap and water?”

While all leather isn’t waterproof, the answer to the question, “Can you clean leather with water?” is fairly complex. Should you wash leather with soap and water? Definitely not.

Using a mild soap and water solution on a damp cloth can help to remove stains from leather. Under almost every other circumstance, using soap and water can remove the layer of conditioning from your leather and possibly damage the leather itself.

In most cases, it’s better for your leather to clean it with a dry or damp cloth. You can also use your preferred conditioner if the leather needs it.

Let’s take a quick look at two of the related questions that pop up regularly.

Can You Use Vinegar on Leather?

Yes, you can use a white vinegar solution to help remove tough stains from leather. However, since it is acidic, you shouldn’t use it as part of your day to day cleaning. You should also neutralize it afterwards by wiping the leather with a damp cloth moistened only with water.

Can You Use Baking Soda on Leather?

Yes, you can use baking soda to remove stains from leather. However, the same rules apply as for vinegar.

Myth 4: Direct Sunlight Doesn't Affect Leather

Many people believe that leather is immune to the effects of direct sunlight. Unfortunately, this isn’t true and can quickly lead to the deterioration of even quality leather products.

Let’s look at just a few of the negative effects of direct sunlight on leather. First, it can lead to fading as the pigments in the leather deteriorate from UV exposure.

Second, it can speed up the process where leather dries out, leaving it brittle and prone to cracking. Where direct sun exposure is unavoidable, this means regular conditioning becomes essential.

Finally, prolonged exposure to UV can weaken the fibers of the leather, making it less durable and reducing its lifespan.

Tips for Protecting Leather From UV Rays

1. Try to avoid exposing leather to direct sunlight for extended periods. Store it in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight.
2. When your leather products aren’t in use, cover them or place them in breathable storage bags to protect them from UV rays.
3. Except in the cases of items intended for the purpose (like saddles and bridles), try to limit your leather items’ exposure to the outdoors. With outdoor leather items, ensure that they get conditioned regularly and aren’t exposed to excessive sunlight. Store them indoors when not in use.
4. Consider applying a leather conditioner with UV-blocking properties. This will help to protect leather products from the harmful effects of UV rays.
5. Inspect leather items regularly, checking for signs of damage like fading or cracking. If issues pop up, take immediate action to maintain the leather.

Myth 5: Scratches and Scuffs Can't Be Repaired

Many people think that scuffs and scratches on leather are irreparable. However, that isn’t entirely true. Many minor scratches on leather can be repaired at home with relative ease. As long as you have the right techniques and products, you should be able to fix most minor issues.

Deep cuts are also sometimes reparable, but they may require professional repair.

How To Fix Minor Leather Damage

When you encounter minor leather damage, there are a few things you can do to try and repair the situation. In the case of minor scratches, you can gently rub the area with your fingers. The oils that are naturally present in your skin may help to blend the scratch into the surrounding leather.

With slightly more severe scratches or scuffs, consider getting a leather repair kit. These kits usually contain a color-matching filler (ensure that you buy a kit matching your specific color), and a finishing watch. If you follow the provided instructions, you’ll find that the repair is a breeze.

Finally, in the case of truly severe damage, professional repair may be your best option. If you take the item to a professional leather repair service, they’ll assess the damage and make recommendations.

Myth 6: Leather Can't Breathe

Possibly one of the most devastating myths about leather maintenance is that leather can’t breathe, and it is therefore safe to store it in an airtight container. It is, however, vital that leather be allowed to breathe.

This is true for various reasons, including that it helps to prevent moisture buildup. Since leather is a natural material, it needs to breathe in order for moisture to evaporate. If leather is unable to breathe, the excessive moisture buildup may lead to mold and mildew growth.

The breathability also helps to maintain the quality of the leather by helping it to retain its natural oils. This, in turn, prevents dryness and cracking.

Storage Tips To Prevent Mold and Mildew

Here are a few tips to help you protect your leather products from mold and mildew:

• Use breathable storage: If you’re storing leather products, it’s essential to use breathable fabric bags, boxes, or covers. Never use plastic bags or airtight containers.
• Store leather products in a well-ventilated area: It’s always best to store leather items in a dry, well-ventilated area. This will help to promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
• Try to avoid damp conditions: Whatever you do, ensure that you don’t store your leather products in damp areas like basements and attics, where humidity can be high.
• Inspect the leather products regularly: Another essential factor when trying to practice good leather care is to inspect the items regularly. This practice will help you identify issues early, and allow you to counteract any issues that arise.

Expert Tips for Maintaining Leather

We’ve assembled a list of tips for leather maintenance, to help you keep your leather in great shape.

Practice Daily Care Routines

It’s important to practice general leather care daily. Use a soft, clean cloth or sponge to wipe down your leather products daily. This will prevent the buildup of dust and grime.

It’s also good to limit the amount of handling your leather experiences, as excessive handling can lead to wear and tear.

Cleaning Recommendations

When cleaning your leather, follow this advice for the best effect.

First, use an approved leather cleaner with a formulation that will work well for your type of leather.

Second, don’t use any harsh chemicals in the cleaning process. This will help to protect and preserve your leather items.

Finally, spot clean stains by gently dabbing the area with a damp cloth and a mild leather cleaner. Avoid rubbing at the stain, as you may unintentionally spread it.

Conditioning Guidelines

Condition leather regularly, but adjust the frequency based on conditions. For instance, if you live in an exceptionally hot, dry area and the leather gets handled regularly, condition it every three to six months. On the other hand, if the weather is cool and dry and you don’t handle the leather often, every six to 12 months is sufficient.

It’s critical that you choose a high-quality leather conditioner that’s approved for your particular type of leather. When conditioning, always ensure that all parts of the leather get conditioned equally, without overapplying the conditioner.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, leather maintenance is fairly straightforward, but people often have some serious misconceptions about leather care. If you follow the information and tips provided in this article, then your leather will last for a long time.

Remember to keep it clean and conditioned using approved products, and ensure that you keep the leather dry and out of direct sunlight. We wish you a long and happy lifetime for your leather products.

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