Skin care: essential tips for preserving leather products
Leather looks rich and lasts long - yet it needs steady, simple care to stay that way. Below are three plain rules that guard both the looks and the life of leather goods.
Regular cleaning
Clean leather with light pressure so the surface stays smooth plus the color stays even. Wipe off dust with a soft cloth or a soft brush. Add a few drops of mild leather cleaner or a plain laurel or vegetable soap to a damp cloth - wipe the leather once, but do not soak it. Rub tough marks with a soft brush in small circles. Finish by patting the leather dry with a fresh cloth so no water sits long enough to leave a mark.
Regular hydration
Leather needs oil to stay soft and stretchy. Rub in a conditioner that lists almond oil, olive oil, shea butter, glycerin or panthenol. The oils stay on top and block out dry air but also dirt. A short rub every few months stops cracks and keeps the hide flexible.
Recommend
Correct storage
Set leather in a cool, dry spot out of sun, heat and steam. Keep it in the box it came in or in a sealed container so air as well as dust stay out. Do not set it near radiators, stoves, bathrooms or bottles of bleach, pesticide or soap. Check the date on any cleaner or conditioner - old products lose strength.
Clean, oil and store leather the right way and it will stay good-looking or strong for many years.
