Clean, repair, and refresh your leather pieces so they look good as new.
But these investment pieces can be tricky to care for.
While leather is resilient, it is also a finicky materialprone to scratching, drying, and cracking.
Credit:Getty Images / Westend61
To learn how to clean leather clothes (without ruining them) we turned to an expert.
“Leather suffers when it is forgotten about or neglected.”
How Often Should You Clean Leather Clothes?
“Just like human skin, leather has pores that need to breathe and be regularly moisturized.”
“If you keep your leather clean and conditioned, it will age gracefully,” he says.
“If not, the leather will eventually dry out and crack.
Just remember, leatherisskin.
Skin needs to be regularly cared for.”
“In my opinion, the process of first cleaning then conditioning the leather is absolutely necessary.
Cleaning the leather first unclogs its pores, readying it to accept a healthy dose of conditioner.”
“Leather conditioner comes in various forms such as balms, creams, lotions or liquids.
Selecting the right tools for the job is as important as choosing the right cleaning products.
“I do not recommend cleaning raw, unsealed leather such as vegetable-tanned leather,” Angsuvarn says.
“When wet, it will permanently stain the material.
If you are unsure, always test in an inconspicuous area first.”
Using a circular motion and light pressure, gently scrub the leather.
Apply a thin, even layer of conditioner over the entire surface of the leather.
Using a circular motion, rub the conditioner thoroughly into the leather, including all of the seams.
Allow 30 minutes for the leather to absorb the conditioner.
Pour a mound of cornstarch on the grease stain and allow it to sit for 12 hours.
Make a solution of equal partsdistilled white vinegarand water.
Dip a soft cloth in the solution, and wipe the affected areas.
He recommends storing leather pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
How to store leather bags:Clean and condition leather bags before storing.
Store the bag in a dust bag made of a breathable fabric, such as cotton or linen.
How to store leather boots and shoes:Clean and condition leather shoes or boots before storing.
Store leather footwear in a breathable dust bag.
How to store leather clothing:Clean and condition leather clothes before storing.
Once they’re dry, use padded hangers with adjustable clips to store leather jackets, pants or skirts.
Place leather garments in a breathable garment bag to protect them from dust.
