What not to do when caring for leather

Protect your beloved leather products! What leather care methods should you avoid?

Leather products are valuable items that can be used for a long time if properly cared for. However, improper care can damage the leather and shorten its lifespan. In this article, we will explain in detail the leather care methods that you should absolutely avoid , and introduce the correct care methods to make your leather products last longer.



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Introduction: Leather Care Basics

Leather products have a luxurious feel and are widely used as fashion and everyday items. However, leather is a natural material and is very delicate, so proper care is important. Over time, leather is susceptible to dryness, moisture, and sunlight, and if not properly cared for, it can deteriorate, crack, fade, and become moldy.

To make your leather products last longer, it is important to know the wrong ways to care for them and avoid them in the first place. Improper care can damage the leather and make it difficult to repair.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the points you should pay particular attention to and introduce how to properly care for your leather products. With the right knowledge, you can enjoy your precious leather products for a long time.

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What not to do when cleaning leather

Leather products are very delicate materials. If you clean them incorrectly, it will not only shorten the lifespan of the leather, but it will also have a significant impact on the appearance and texture. Below, we will explain in detail the cleaning methods that you should absolutely avoid when caring for leather products.

1. Using alcohol or acetone

It is especially important to avoid using alcohol or acetone when cleaning leather. These ingredients strip the natural oils in leather, causing it to dry out and crack. Alcohol may temporarily remove dirt and stains, but afterwards the leather will dry out and become stiff.

Leather that has lost its oils loses its suppleness and flexibility and is more susceptible to cracking and discolouration. Alcohol and acetone can also destroy finishes and coatings, especially on the surface of the leather, significantly shortening the lifespan of your leather item.

2. Rinse with lots of water

Leather products are very sensitive to water, so washing them with large amounts of water is not recommended. When water penetrates the leather, the fibers expand, causing it to lose its shape and become moldy. In particular, if water penetrates the inside of the leather, it becomes difficult to dry, and over time the leather will harden and crack.

In addition, leather becomes soft when it absorbs moisture and is more likely to lose its shape. This can make it difficult for leather products such as shoes and bags to maintain their original shape, and can significantly damage their appearance.

3. Direct heat

Never use a hair dryer or heater to dry wet leather. Direct heat can cause the leather to shrink and harden. In particular, applying high heat when drying can cause the leather fibers to shrink and become irreversible.

If your leather item does get wet, the safest thing to do is to let it air dry. Drying in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight , will help to preserve the leather's texture.

It is important to care for your leather products the right way, as incorrect cleaning methods like these can significantly shorten their lifespan and have a major impact on their appearance and texture.

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How to store leather products that you should avoid

To keep your leather products beautiful for a long time, you need to store them properly . If you store them improperly, the leather will lose its texture and luster and will deteriorate. The following storage environments should be avoided in particular:

1. Humid places

Leather absorbs moisture very well, so avoid storing it in a humid place , as this can lead to the growth of mold on the leather. Mold destroys the leather fibers, shortening the lifespan of your leather item and ruining its appearance.

In particular, in enclosed spaces such as shoe boxes and closets, moisture tends to build up, so it is important to store leather products in a way that allows for good ventilation. Using a dehumidifier can help prevent moisture and protect your leather products from mold.

2. Places exposed to direct sunlight

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause leather products to fade and dry out . In particular, the ultraviolet rays contained in sunlight can destroy the leather fibers and cause the color to fade.

The heat of sunlight will also dry out leather, making it less soft and supple, so it is important to store your leather products in a cool place out of direct sunlight .

3. Confined spaces

You should also avoid storing leather products in an enclosed space , as poor ventilation can trap moisture, causing the leather to go moldy and develop unpleasant odors.

When storing it, choose a place that is well ventilated and does not easily accumulate moisture , and ideally store it in a breathable cloth cover or paper bag. Be careful not to store it in a sealed bag such as a plastic bag.

By creating a good storage environment like this, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your leather products.

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Wrong way to prevent leather from getting wet

If your leather product gets wet, it can cause serious damage if you do not take appropriate measures. Please pay attention to the following points to avoid taking the wrong measures to prevent your leather from getting wet .

1. Leaving it wet

When a leather product gets wet, you should never leave it as it is . The moisture will soak into the leather, making it more susceptible to stains and mold. In particular, if you leave it wet for a long time, moisture will build up inside the leather, making it harder to dry.

If your item does get wet, it is important to immediately wipe off the moisture with a soft cloth and then let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or high heat sources , and dry slowly to minimize damage to the leather.

2. Rub with force

Rubbing wet leather too hard can damage the surface of the leather and make it lose its luster . Smooth leather in particular is more likely to show visible scratches if rubbed too hard.

When wiping off the moisture, it is important to gently press the leather to allow it to absorb the moisture . This allows you to gently remove the moisture without applying excessive pressure to the leather.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can protect your leather products from water and keep them looking beautiful for a long time.

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Conclusion: Proper leather care will make it last longer

Leather products are attractive items that can maintain their beauty for a long time if properly cared for , and the more they are used, the more unique their texture becomes. However, continued incorrect care methods can not only shorten the lifespan of the leather, but can also cause damage that is difficult to repair.

With the right knowledge and regular care , you can enjoy your leather products for a long time. Use this article as a reference to properly care for your precious leather products and enjoy their texture for a long time.

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FAQ: Frequently asked questions about leather care

Q1. Is it okay to use waterproof spray on leather products?

Yes, it is effective to use a waterproofing spray on leather products. However, it is important to choose a waterproofing spray specifically designed for leather . Different sprays are suitable for different types of leather, such as smooth leather or suede, so be sure to check the product instructions before use. Also, when using a waterproofing spray, we recommend that you always test it on an inconspicuous area to make sure that it does not change the color or texture of the leather before spraying it all over.

Q2. What should I do if my leather product gets wet in the rain?

If your leather product gets wet in the rain, immediately wipe off the water gently with a dry, soft cloth, then let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated place . When drying, avoid direct sunlight and strong heat such as a hair dryer. Rapid drying can harden the leather or cause it to crack. After it is completely dry, apply a moisturizing cream made for leather to maintain its flexibility.

Q3. Can I wash my leather jacket in the washing machine?

No, you should never wash a leather jacket in a washing machine. The water from the washing machine and mechanical friction can damage the leather fibers, causing deformation and discoloration. It is safest to leave the cleaning of your leather jacket to a professional . At home, you should only wipe the area with a cleaner.

Q4. Mold has started growing on my leather product. What should I do?

If mold grows on your leather product, first gently wipe off the mold with a dry cloth and then use a leather cleaner to remove the mold. After that, dry the product thoroughly in a well-ventilated place, and then reapply a cleaner or moisturizing cream to restore the leather to its original condition. If the mold has spread or you are unable to deal with it yourself, we recommend consulting a professional leather cleaning company.

Q5. How do I care for suede products?

Unlike other leathers, suede does not require creams containing oils . Use a suede brush to remove dust and dirt from the surface. If the item is very dirty, use a suede cleaner and treat it carefully. It is also effective to use a waterproof spray to prevent dirt and water damage.

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Author Information

Yama (Owner of Cowmono)

Author: Yama (Cowmono Owner)

Occupation: Owner of Slowth Lab

He has worked in sales and marketing for over a quarter of a year at apparel companies in Japan and overseas, and has a deep knowledge of fashion, sports, outdoors, and subculture.