If you’re willing to spend a little more money, you can also spring for a complete leather maintenance package. These kits often include other products that are useful for extending the lifespan of your leather goods, such as neatsfoot oil, leather milk, and protective beeswax for waterproofing. Avoid using natural alternatives like olive or coconut oil. While these can help relax leather in the short term, they have a tendency to absorb deep into the material. Over time, they can lead to permanent discoloration or more serious cracking and deterioration. [2] X Research source
When it comes to leather products, less is more. You just want to treat the surface of the leather, not give it a bath. [3] X Research source Don’t apply the product directly to the leather. Not only is this a recipe for a giant mess, it also makes it harder to distribute the conditioner consistently.
Leather conditioners are safe enough to use on every part of the item’s exterior, but you could also focus your attention where it’s needed most, such as the elbows of a jacket or the toe or ankle area of a boot. There’s no need to rub on multiple coats. Any additional conditioner you apply will just accumulate on the surface.
If you live somewhere with a warm, dry climate where your leather is routinely exposed to the elements, consider upping the frequency to once every couple of weeks. [5] X Research source Since it will remain in a climate-controlled environment, leather furniture and upholstery will only need to be conditioned about once every six months. [6] X Research source
If possible, use distilled water. There will be less chance of the unsightly spotting and mineral buildup that often comes with hard water. Assuming you can’t get your hands on a spray bottle, you can also wipe down the leather with a damp cloth. This method won’t be very useful on waterproofed leather, which will just cause the water to roll right off.
Alternatively, consider stepping outside for a few moments during a light drizzle. Just be careful not to stay out so long that the leather becomes sopping wet. Too much water is not good for leather, but a little bit can have a gentle weathering effect without causing any serious damage.
It’s important not to leave behind any standing water. Oversaturation can eventually produce cracking and fading and cause leather to take on a dull, coarse appearance. Don’t forget to dry off all metal components to keep them from rusting.
This method is best reserved for newer accessories that don’t bend or flow well, as heat can easily rob the remaining moisture from older leather. The leather should be dry or just slightly damp when it goes into the dryer. It’s not recommended that you wash and dry leather the way you would ordinary clothing. For even better results, throw a heavy sneaker or a few tennis balls into the dryer. The added friction will wear in the item more evenly.
The steam from the shower will also bathe the leather in moisture, making it doubly effective.
Use a low heat only and keep the blow dryer a safe distance from the surface so you don’t run the risk of burning it. Be sure to complete the distressing process with a coat of nourishing leather conditioner.
Any type of leather can benefit from a little hands-on treatment, no matter its age, type, texture, or style. Try not to whack the leather hard enough to damage it. Keep away from delicate areas like seams, pockets, buttons, straps, and zippers.
If it’s a belt or similar item, roll it into a tight ball, then unroll it and roll it up again the other way. [10] X Research source Work on your accessories while you’re watching TV, waiting for an appointment, or going on a long car ride.
Not only does regular wear work wonders for the texture, it will also let you get more use out of the item. Don’t be afraid to get your leather a little dirty. You can always touch it up later on to get it looking its best again.
