Seasonal Leather Care Tips

Do your favourite leather boots feel a bit dry after a long summer, or does your trusty leather jacket seem stiff after winter storage? Leather is a surprisingly versatile material, adapting to your style and needs. But just like your favourite outfits need a seasonal refresh, so, too, does your leather maintenance routine! At The Leather Colour Doctor, we understand the emotional connection you have with your prized leather goods. They're more than just possessions – they're treasured companions that add a touch of timeless style to your life.

As an owner of leather goods, you might have valid questions, such as:

• How do you stop leather from drying out?
• What's the best way to condition leather?
• How do you keep it like new?
• What's the best way to maintain leather?

To answer these questions and help you retain and enjoy these precious items for longer, we've put together some simple leather care tips to keep your leather supple, and beautiful, whatever the seasons may offer!

Spring & Summer

The warmer months bring sunshine, but also harsh UV rays and increased heat (and perspiration!). Here's how to protect your leather during this season:

The Sun: Public Enemy #1

The British summer brings sunshine and warm breezes (if you're lucky!), but for your beloved leather goods, it can also mean harsh UV rays and scorching heat. Just like your skin needs protection from the sun, so too does your leather.

Excessive exposure to direct sunlight can act like bleach on your leather, causing it to lose its vibrant colour and develop a patchy, uneven appearance. Imagine your favourite leather handbag – the one that perfectly complements your summer outfits – turning a dull shade after just a few sunny days!

Sun exposure can evaporate the natural oils from your leather, leaving it feeling dry, stiff, and prone to cracking. This can not only affect the look and feel of your leather items but also shorten their lifespan. Think of your trusty leather jacket – cracked and uncomfortable after a summer spent basking in the sun!

Obviously, your cherished leather goods need some help, so how do you keep them safe from the sun's damaging glare?

There are several ways of doing this, depending on the types of leather involved and the type of item. Let's check out some tips for making sure your leather items remain in excellent shape...

Provide Adequate Shade

These are fairly straightforward methods that will go a long way to protecting your leather products from harmful UV rays:

• Move Furniture - Is your favourite reading spot bathed in the afternoon sun? Consider rearranging your furniture so leather items sit in a cooler, shaded area of the room. Perhaps it's time to swap the placement of your leather couch and TV stand!

• Curtains/Blinds - Strategically placed curtains or blinds can be a lifesaver for sun-exposed leather furniture. Choose blackout curtains for maximum UV protection, or lighter, breathable fabrics that still offer some shade.
• Shade Sails for Spacious Rooms - For large living areas with skylights or expansive windows, consider installing a stylish shade sail. These fabric canopies can be mounted on the ceiling or walls, offering a decorative touch while filtering sunlight and protecting your leather furniture. They can also be placed outside on patios or decking, providing shade for the adjacent room.

Proper Storage

It's important to store your leather items properly to prevent sun damage while they're not in use.

Cool And Dry

Leather is a natural material, and like us, it thrives in a stable environment. Attics and basements aren't ideal due to the constant variations in temperature and humidity. Extreme heat can dry out your leather, making it brittle and prone to cracking. Fluctuating humidity levels can encourage mildew growth, leaving unsightly stains and a musty odour. The ideal storage environment for your leather is a cool, dry closet or cabinet with good air circulation. This will help your leather retain its natural moisture and prevent any unwanted surprises when you take it out next season.

Breathable Materials

Plastic storage containers might seem like a convenient option, but they're actually the enemy of leather! Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to the growth of mildew and mould. Instead, opt for breathable dust bags made from natural materials like cotton or muslin. These fabrics allow air to circulate freely, preventing moisture build-up and keeping your leather fresh.

Discover: How To Remove Mould From Leather

Maintaining Shape And Preventing Wrinkles

Leather bags and wallets can lose their shape if left empty for long periods. To prevent them from collapsing and developing unsightly wrinkles, use clean, acid-free tissue paper to stuff them gently. This will help them maintain their structure and look their best when you're ready to use them again. Just be sure to use acid-free tissue paper, as regular tissue paper can contain harmful acids that can damage your leather over time.

For leather jackets, use padded hangers and store them in a cool, dry place.

Dealing With Moisture And Odours

Leather is a breathable material, and can absorb sweat, especially from everyday wear like shoes or furniture. Sweat can leave behind stains and unpleasant odours.

When this happens, swift action is essential!

After wearing leather shoes or using a leather couch on a hot, sticky day, it's important to act quickly to remove any sweat. Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe down the affected area. Remember, don't soak the leather – just a damp wipe will do the trick. Follow this with a dry, soft cloth to buff away any remaining moisture.

Alternatively, sprinkle baking soda inside leather shoes or leather handbags that have become damp and musty. This draws out moisture and removes bad smells effectively.

For stubborn stains, use a mild leather cleaner specifically formulated for the type of leather you have. By addressing the problem promptly, you can prevent it from setting in and causing permanent damage or nasty odours.

The Leather Colour Doctor's leather cleaning fluid is perfect for this job!

Use A Good-Quality Leather Conditioner

As leather-care specialists, we can't stress strongly enough the importance of using a leather conditioner to keep your goods in great shape.

Leather is a beautiful and durable natural material, but it needs some care, especially during the hot summer months. Here's why using a leather conditioner is a good idea:

Replenishes Natural Moisture

Summer heat can be a real pain when it comes to drying out leather. The sun's rays and hot temperatures can destroy the natural oils that keep leather supple and soft. This can leave your favourite leather jacket feeling stiff and uncomfortable, or make your leather furniture look dull and lifeless. Leather conditioner replenishes those lost oils and restores its natural suppleness.

Combats Cracks And Breakage

Dry, brittle leather is more prone to cracking and breakage. This can not only be unsightly but also shorten the lifespan of your leather goods. Regular conditioning helps keep your leather supple and flexible, making it less likely to crack or break under everyday wear and tear. Consider it preventative maintenance for your leather – a little TLC now can save you from costly repairs down the line!

Maintains A Beautiful Patina

Certain types of leather develop a beautiful patina over time, adding to its character and charm. However, dry leather can become dull and lifeless. Leather conditioner helps maintain that rich, natural look by restoring the leather's colour and shine. Good conditioning will bring out the natural beauty of your leather and keep it looking its best for years to come.

Added Protection From The Sun

Our leather conditioner offers an extra layer of protection against the sun's harmful UV rays. As mentioned earlier, excessive sun exposure can fade and damage leather. These conditioners often contain UV protectants that help shield your leather from the sun's harsh rays, preventing fading and discolouration.

Check out: How To Prevent Leather From Fading

Autumn & Winter

The winter months bring cold and dry air and potential exposure to wet conditions. Here's how to make sure your leather goods remain in excellent condition during this time:

Combat Dryness

As the temperature drops and the humidity plummets, the natural moisture in your leather can evaporate, leaving it feeling dry and stiff. This, in turn, can lead to cracking, a nightmare for any leather enthusiast! Here's how to prevent this:

• Condition Leather Regularly - Regular application will help restore lost moisture, replenish natural oils lost over time, and keep your leather supple and comfortable. It's like giving your leather a winter hydration boost to keep it feeling soft and luxurious.
• Target Dry Areas - Pay particular attention to areas of your leather that are more prone to dryness, such as seams, edges, and high-wear zones on bags and jackets. These areas can dry out faster and benefit from a targeted application of conditioner.

Fight The Elements

Winter doesn't just bring dryness, but also a barrage of wet and messy conditions. Rain, snow, and the dreaded salt or grit used on roads can all damage your leather if left unprotected. Here are a few ideas on how to fight back:

• Leather Protector - These specialty sprays create a water-repellent barrier on the leather's surface, helping to ward off rain, snow, and slush. This barrier also helps prevent salt stains, a common problem for winter boots and handbags. Look for a protector specifically designed for the type of leather you have (e.g., suede protector for shoes). Remember, reapplication may be necessary throughout the winter, especially after heavy rain or snowfall.
• Quick Action is Key - If your leather does get wet, don't panic! The trick is to act quickly. Gently blot away excess moisture with a clean, absorbent cloth. Never use direct heat sources to dry your leather, as this can cause warping and shrinkage. Allow your leather items to air dry naturally in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct heat sources. Once dry, consider applying a leather conditioning cream to replenish any lost moisture.
• Gentle brushing – Use a soft bristled brush to remove dirt, salt, and debris that can accumulate on your leather during winter. This is especially important for suede shoes and other napped leather items.

Which Leather Is It?

There are several types of leather, and each one may need special treatment.

Let's look at the more common ones to see which leather type (or types!) you may have:

Explore: How To Tell If Leather Is Real

Full-Grain Leather

• Description – Known as the King of Leather, this is the top layer of the hide, valued for its durability, natural grain patterns, and ability to develop a beautiful patina over time. As the highest-quality leather, it generally requires less maintenance, but you still need to give it some TLC!
• Uses - Prized for its strength and longevity, full-grain leather is commonly used in high-quality furniture (especially sofas and armchairs), boots, dress shoes, jackets, and bags. It's also used for high-end automotive leather, although it depends on the car brand.
• Seasonal Care - This leather is naturally water-resistant, but benefits from occasional conditioning, especially during dry winter months. Use a high-quality leather conditioner specifically formulated for full-grain leather to replenish oils and maintain its suppleness. Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive sunlight exposure year-round.

Top-Grain Leather

• Description - This layer is just below the full-grain surface, and may have undergone some buffing to create a more uniform appearance. This leather is still very durable and offers a smooth finish.
• Uses - A popular choice for a wide range of products due to its balance of affordability and quality. Commonly found in handbags, wallets, watch straps, shoes, and some furniture.
• Seasonal Care - Similar to full-grain, top-grain leather benefits from regular conditioning, especially during winter. Opt for conditioners designed for top-grain leather, and avoid using harsh cleaning products. It's wise to keep this away from direct sunlight year-round.

Corrected-Grain Leather

• Description - A variation of top-grain leather that has undergone a more extensive buffing or sanding process to remove imperfections and create a more consistent look. A protective coating is often applied for more uniform colour and increased water resistance.
• Uses - Often used in shoes, bags, and clothing, where a smooth finish and affordability are priorities.
• Seasonal Care - Corrected-grain leather generally requires less conditioning than full-grain or top-grain options due to the protective coating. However, occasional cleaning and a light application of conditioner can still be beneficial. Protect from excessive sunlight year-round.

Genuine Leather

• Description - A broad term encompassing any leather that isn't full-grain. This can include top-grain, corrected-grain, and even split leather with a bonded surface layer. Genuine leather can vary greatly in quality and durability.
• Uses - Found in a wide range of products due to its affordability. Look for this leather in belts, wallets, clothing, and some furniture.
• Seasonal Care - The care needs for genuine leather will vary depending on the specific type of leather used. Always test any cleaning or conditioning products on an inconspicuous area first. Protect from excessive sunlight year-round.

Split Leather (Suede)

• Description - The underside of the hide, is known for its soft, fuzzy texture. Suede is naturally breathable and comfortable to wear.
• Uses - Popular for suede shoes, jackets, bags, and clothing where a luxurious, soft feel is desired.
• Seasonal Care - Suede requires special care. Avoid excessive water exposure and use a suede brush to remove dirt and maintain the nap (fuzzy texture) throughout the year. Special suede protector sprays can be used for added water resistance, particularly during wet winter months.

Discover more: How To Clean Suede Shoes

Bonded Leather

• Description - Made from leftover leather 'scraps', fibres that are bonded together with a polyurethane coating. It's not technically real leather but offers a leather-like look at a lower price point.
• Uses - Often found in wallets, belts, and furniture where affordability is a major factor.
• Seasonal Care - Bonded leather generally requires minimal care. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Due to the synthetic coating, it's less susceptible to seasonal weather changes.

General Leather Care Tips For All Seasons

Leather is a timeless and versatile material, but it needs proper care all year round. Here are some essential tips to keep your leather looking and feeling its best, no matter the season:

• Frequent Cleaning - Develop a leather care routine that incorporates regular cleaning with a soft, lint-free cloth. This simple step removes loose dirt, dust, and everyday grime that can accumulate on your leather goods.
• Deal With Tough Stains Immediately - Accidents happen, and even the most careful among us can encounter a surprise stain on our leather. Remember, prompt action is key! The sooner you address a stain, the easier it will be to remove.
• Proper Storage - When your favourite leather jacket or handbag isn't enjoying the spotlight, correct storage is essential.

• Breathable Bags - Leather needs to breathe, so use dust bags made from natural materials like cotton or muslin. These breathable fabrics allow air circulation and prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to mildew growth on your leather.
• Maintain Structure - For jackets, bags, and wallets, a padded hanger is a great way to maintain their shape during storage. This prevents creasing and sagging, keeping your leather goods looking their best when you take them out next season.
• Know Your Leather - Leather comes in a variety of types, each with its unique characteristics and care needs. Understanding the type of leather you have is crucial for choosing the right cleaning and conditioning products. Using the wrong product can damage your leather, so a little research goes a long way! Look for reputable leather care brands that offer product lines specific to different leather types.

By following these simple, year-round tips, you can ensure your leather goods age gracefully and develop a beautiful patina over time. This rich, burnished look adds a touch of timeless elegance to your everyday wear and becomes a testament to the quality and care you've invested in your leather pieces.

At The Leather Care Doctor, we are passionate about helping you extend the life and beauty of your leather treasures. Contact us today for a personalised leather care consultation! Our experts can help you develop a custom care routine tailored to your specific leather goods, ensuring they continue to bring you joy for years to come.