Leather is a naturally hardwearing product and can last for years if well cared for. Leather can dry out (just like our skin does) if exposed to extreme temperatures, water, or too much sunlight.
Most vegetable or oak bark tanned leather will have enough oils to sustain it for the first 6 months. After that, your leather item will need to be cared for regularly using a natural leather balm to replenish these oils and keep it supple, help it patina, and add a degree of water resistance.
I use English and Italian vegetable and oak bark tanned leathers which are hardwearing, supple and will build a lovely patina over time. They are supple right from the start, smell amazing and show the natural character of the hide. Each piece is unique with the growth marks and subtle hues varying from hide to hide. The oak bark and vegetable tanning methods do not use chemicals so these leathers are kinder to the environment.
All my leather goods come with a leather care leaflet which includes my personal recommendations for leather balms. (Other care products are available!). Surface scratches can be improved using a matching coloured leather balm and buffed in. Please contact me if in doubt! I’m always happy to help.
A soft horse hair brush can be very useful for removing dust and for buffing in that balm! A regular wipe over with a soft dry cloth can help remove surface dust and dirt. This is best done weekly.
Leather can stretch over time so avoid over filling your handbag or wallet!
Store your handbag in the cotton dust cover I send with it to protect it from scratches, etc. Do not wrap leather items in plastic as it will need to breathe, and avoid storing next to radiators as this will dry out the leather.
Most of all, enjoy your new leather item for years to come!!
Image from J&FJ Baker & Co Ltd featuring their fantastic oak bark tanned leathers! One of my favourite leathers to work with and featured in my upcoming new Core Collection! Watch out for a future blog all about why their leather is so special!!