How to Refresh and Care for Leather Goods
Owning a few unique, durable leather items has become common in many households. Here are some effective methods to preserve and renew your leather items.
1. Proper Care for Leather Goods
- Never place leather items directly on the floor, even if it’s tiled or cemented, as the ground moisture can cause damage, especially during rainy seasons when humidity can lead to mold.
- Avoid using leather items in damp or rainy weather, or when you’re sweating heavily, as moisture can cause leather to harden. If leather becomes damp, avoid using a hairdryer to dry it as this can dry out and crack the material. Instead, let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Periodically apply leather conditioner, especially in sunny or humid climates. When using polish, ensure the color matches the leather to avoid damaging its natural hue.
2. Polishing Leather
- Use a soft cloth dipped in milk to rub the leather surface vigorously in a circular motion. Afterward, wipe with a dry cloth to bring out a shiny finish.
- Separate an egg white, whip it until frothy, and apply it to leather items like bags and wallets that have become dry and stiff over time. Use a clean cloth to rub it in thoroughly, and then wipe with another clean cloth. This will leave the leather soft and shiny as new.
3. Cleaning Leather
- Always start by testing a small, inconspicuous area before fully cleaning. After a few minutes, if there’s no color change, proceed. Use a damp cloth or small brush. If there’s mold, mix alcohol with water and use a cloth to wipe down the surface. For stubborn mold, use a bar of soap and water, then rinse with a damp cloth and let it dry naturally.
4. Long-Term Storage
- Store leather items in a cool, dry place, avoiding airtight plastic bags or containers. Use a few silica gel packets for moisture absorption.
- To prevent stiffness after being soaked by rain, rub a potato half thoroughly over the surface, then polish with a matching leather wax.
5. Removing Mold from Leather
- To remove mold spots, use a clean cloth soaked in turpentine. If the mold has deeply penetrated, use fine sandpaper to rub off the affected area, then touch up with a matching dye. Finish by polishing with leather wax.
6. Removing Oil Stains from Leather
- Use cotton wool soaked in benzine to dab the oily area. The leather may lighten, so you may need to apply wax of a matching color to restore the original look.
7. Leather Bag Care
- About twice a year, refresh your leather bag with colorless shoe polish.
- Avoid taking leather bags to shoe repair or dry cleaners, as improper tools can damage the leather. Instead, take it to a professional bag repair shop.
- Avoid storing leather bags in plastic bags, which can dry them out or cause the plastic to stick. Stuff the bag with scrap paper or an old t-shirt to maintain its shape. Store it upright in a dust bag or pillowcase.
- When storing leather bags for an extended period, stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture and help retain their shape to prevent creasing or cracking.
Following these methods will help keep your leather items in excellent condition for years to come.