Leather care

Welcome to the world of leather goods! Whether you have just received a new leather product or have been a proud owner for some time, proper care and maintenance is crucial for preserving the longevity and appearance of your leather goods. Leather is a natural material that requires special care to keep it looking its best. From understanding the differences between vegetal and mineral tanning to maintaining edge paint and stitching, this article will provide you with all the knowledge you need to properly care for your leather goods. We'll also cover important information on storage conditions and how to prevent and address crease condition. By following these tips, you can ensure that your leather goods will last for many years to come. 

Vegetal tanning is a traditional method that uses natural materials such as tree bark to tan the leather. This process results in a softer, more supple leather that may have variations in color and texture. To maintain vegetal tanned leather, it's important to use a leather conditioner that is specifically formulated for this type of leather. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as they can damage the leather. Cleaning can be done by using a damp cloth and mild soap, but be sure to test a small area first to ensure the soap does not discolor the leather.

Mineral tanning, on the other hand, uses chemical compounds such as chrome to tan the leather. This process results in a stronger and more durable leather that has a consistent color and texture. To maintain mineral tanned leather, it's important to use a leather conditioner that is specifically formulated for this type of leather. Be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as they can damage the leather. Cleaning can be done by using a damp cloth and mild soap, but be sure to test a small area first to ensure the soap does not discolor the leather.

In addition to the main leather body, the edges and stitching of your leather goods also require special care. Edge paint is often used to give a finished look to the edges of leather products. To maintain edge paint, apply a leather edge paint conditioner to help keep the paint flexible and prevent cracking. As for stitching, it's important to keep it clean and free of dirt or debris to prevent it from fraying or breaking.

In summary, proper leather maintenance and cleaning is crucial for preserving the longevity and appearance of your leather goods. Vegetal and mineral tanned leathers require different care methods, and it's important to use the appropriate leather conditioner and cleaning method for your specific type of leather. Be sure to also take care of the edge paint and stitching of your leather goods to ensure they maintain their finished look.

In addition to proper maintenance and cleaning, the storage conditions of your leather goods are also important for preserving their longevity and appearance. Leather should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing leather in damp or humid areas, as this can cause mold and mildew to form. It is also important to ensure that the leather is not tightly packed or squished, as this can cause creases and wrinkles to form.

Crease condition is a common issue that occurs when leather is folded or bent repeatedly, resulting in permanent wrinkles and creases. To prevent crease condition, avoid storing leather goods in a folded or bent position. You can also use a leather stretching tool or a leather conditioner specifically formulated to help reduce the appearance of creases.

In summary, proper storage conditions, including avoiding direct sunlight, heat sources, dampness and humid areas, and keeping the leather goods in its natural shape can help preserve the longevity and appearance of your leather goods. If crease condition does occur, there are methods to reduce the appearance of creases such as using leather stretching tool or leather conditioner.