[Complete guide to cracking leather products] Thorough explanations from causes to prevention and maintenance, from the causes to prevention and maintenance.

 

If you continue to use precious leather products, especially leather belts, wallets, and bags,Crackedmay occur. Cracks in leather not only deteriorate the appearance, but also greatly reduce durability, and ultimately shortens the lifespan. This article provides a comprehensive guide to keeping your leather products beautiful for a long time, from the scientific mechanisms of cracking leather products, the characteristics and countermeasures for each type of leather, proper care methods for each season, and repair techniques if cracking already occurs. Based on the knowledge of leather products experts, we will also introduce specific maintenance procedures that can be practiced on a daily basis and recommended care items.

table of contents

1. Scientific mechanisms in which cracks occur in leather products

Cracks that occur in leather products, especially those used daily on belts, wallets, bags, etc., are not coincidental, but scientifically explained. Understanding the structure and properties of leather makes it clear why cracking occurs.

The relationship between leather structure and cracks

Leather is mainly made up of collagen fibers, which are intricately intertwined and are flexible due to natural oils and moisture. Cracks occur when the bonds between these fibers are broken. Especially when the fibers dry and harden, they will no longer be able to respond resiliently to bending and stretching forces, and cracks will gradually begin to form from the surface.

1-1. Major Cracking Factors

1) Deterioration due to dryness

Leather is a natural material and requires a proper balance of moisture and oil. Drying progresses due to the following reasons:

  • Natural evaporation: The moisture and oil inside the leather naturally evaporates over time.
  • Environmental Humidity: The leather will dry out more rapidly, especially when using heating in winter or in air-conditioned environments.
  • Improper storage: If stored near direct sunlight or heat sources, the leather will dry out.

Leather with proper moisture balance

Flexible and tightly bonded fibers

Dried leather

The bond between the fibers weakens, resulting in fine cracking

② Physical stress

Various physical stresses that occur when using leather products promote cracking:

  • Repeated folding: Repeated bends in the same area, such as the hole in the belt or the handle of the bag, are the most common causes of cracks.
  • Pull and pressure: Excessive pressure on the belt due to weight gain, stress on the bag due to heavy loads.
  • friction: Surface wear caused by friction with clothes and daily contact will gradually deteriorate the surface protective film.

③ Damage caused by UV rays and heat

Leather is a natural material and is also sensitive to environmental factors:

  • UV rays: UV light breaks down the collagen fibers of leather, causing surface hardening and cracking, especially as the fading of dyed leather.
  • heat: High temperatures evaporate the oily content of the leather, promoting drying and hardening. Leather products left in the car in particular will suffer serious damage.

④ Repeated moisture and drying

The cycle of leather wet and drying is particularly harmful:

  • Inflation and contraction: Leather expands when absorbs moisture and shrinks when dry. This repetition weakens the fibers.
  • Natural oil spill: Wet leather makes it easier for natural oils to be washed away inside.
  • Rapid drying: Rapid drying of wet leather under direct sunlight or heat sources will harden the leather and increase the risk of cracking.

1-2. Cracking progression process

Cracks usually progress through the following stages:

  1. Drying and hardening of surfacesFirst, the leather surface will dry out and lose its flexibility.
  2. Fine cracking occurs: Fine cracks that cannot be seen by the naked eye begin to appear on the surface.
  3. Surface crack enlargement: If used continuously, the cracks will expand and develop into visible cracks.
  4. Progressing deeper: If left untreated, the cracks will progress deep into the leather, eventually causing structural damage.

Advice from a leather expert

"In most cases, cracks in leather are preventable. Regular moisturizing care is the most important thing. New leather products in particular can significantly extend their lifespan by providing proper initial care before use. As the appropriate care method differs depending on the type of leather, it is also important to choose the right care product for your product."

2. Risk of cracks and countermeasures for different leather types

Not all leather deteriorates the same. The risk of cracking and proper care methods vary greatly depending on the type of leather. Here we will explain the risk of cracking and effective measures for each major type of leather.

Types of leather Risk of cracking Features Recommended care methods
Crazy Horse Leather Medium to low It is impregnated with wax and oil during processing, so it is basically highly drought-resistant. The more you use it, the more natural it becomes, and you can enjoy the changes over time. Regular care with dedicated crazy hose leather wax and oil. Be careful of excessive moisture.
Full grain leather
(High-quality genuine leather)		 Inside High-quality leather using the top layer of leather. It takes advantage of the natural texture of the surface and can be used for long-term use with appropriate care. Apply a moisturizing cream or oil specifically for leather once every 3 to 6 months. If it is used frequently, more frequent care is required.
Split leather
(Two-layer leather)		 High The leather uses the lower part of the leather, and the surface is often processed. Although it is relatively inexpensive, there is a high risk of cracking. You should use a highly moisturizing conditioner frequently to avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes.
Nubuck leather
(Brushed leather)		 Medium to high Leather with lightly polished surfaces and brushed. It has a soft feel, but is sensitive to moisture and easily dry out without proper care. Uses a special nubuck spray to protect it while preventing dirt. Care for regular brushes and keep them brushed.
Enamel leather High Leather with a glossy resin coating. Because the surface is hard, cracks tend to occur in the bent areas. Protect the surface with a special enamel care product and wipe it regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid excessive bends.
PU leather
(Synthetic leather)		 Medium to high Synthetic leather with polyurethane coating. It is flexible in the beginning, but the surface becomes more likely to peel off due to aging. Keep it clean with a PU-specific cleaner and a dedicated protective spray protects the surface. Store away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.

2-1. Crazy Horse Leather Prevents Cracking

Crazy Horse LeatherDue to its special processing, it is more resistant to cracking than general leather, but with proper care, it can further extend its lifespan.

Optimal care for crazy horse leather

  • Regular waxing treatment: Apply a thin layer of wax specifically for crazy hose leather once every 3-4 months to maintain the protective layer on the surface.
  • Cleaning with a dry cloth: After use, wipe off dust and dirt on the surface with a soft, dry cloth and keep it clean.
  • Dealing with water: If it gets wet, immediately absorb moisture with a dry cloth and let it dry naturally. Never use a heat source to dry it.
  • Storage method: When not in use, it is ideal to put it in a dustproof bag and store in a well-ventilated place, and stuff it with filling to prevent it from losing its shape.

The appeal of crazy horse leather is its unique texture that increases the more you use it. You can enjoy aging while providing proper care.Crazy Horse Leather Waist BagThese are items that are perfect for everyday use.

2-2. Prevent cracking of general genuine leather products

Genuine leather productscan maintain beauty for a long period of time with regular care. Please note the following points:

Basic care for genuine leather products

  • Regular moisturizing: Moisturize your skin with a leather-specific conditioner or cream once every 2-3 months. Carefully take care of areas that are particularly frequently used.
  • cleaning: If dirt gets on the skin, gently wipe it off with a leather cleaner and then moisturizing it.
  • Waterproof treatment: Apply a waterproof leather spray before the change of seasons or rainy seasons to prevent damage caused by moisture.
  • Regular rest: Instead of continuing to use the same belt or wallet every day, you can use multiple leather products in rotation, giving leather time to recover.

2-3. How to care for PU leather (synthetic leather)

PU leatherAlthough it is relatively easy to care for compared to natural leather, the following care is important to prevent cracking due to aging:

  • Regular cleaning: Wipe away dirt on the surface with a solution diluted with neutral detergent, and completely remove moisture with a dry cloth.
  • Special conditioner: Use conditioner for PU leather to maintain surface flexibility.
  • Avoid direct sunlight: PU leather is sensitive to UV rays, so store away from direct sunlight for long periods of time.
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes: Avoid storing in high temperatures and humid environments or extremely cold environments.

Common points to note about leather products

With any type of leather, you can significantly reduce the risk of cracking by paying attention to the following points:

  • Do not place leather products near heat sources (heaters, fireplaces, car dashboards, etc.)
  • Do not dry wet leather products in direct sunlight or hot air
  • Be careful not to apply excessive weight or pressure to leather products.
  • Make efforts to maintain proper shape during long-term storage

3. Precautions to prevent cracking of leather products

In order to effectively prevent cracking of leather products, daily care and proper use are important. Here are some specific precautions to help your leather products last longer.

3-1. Regular moisturizing care routine

The most important thing to extend the lifespan of leather products is regular moisturizing care. Here we will introduce the recommended moisturizing care cycles for each type of leather.

Types of leather Recommended care frequency Recommended moisturizing products Tips for usage
Crazy Horse Leather Once every 3-4 months Specialized wax or oil Take a small amount on a soft cloth and gently apply in circular motions.
Full grain leather Once every 2-3 months Leather conditioner Apply thinly and evenly with a clean cloth, let it permeate for about 15 minutes, then wipe off any excess.
Split leather Once every 1-2 months Highly moisturizing leather cream Carefully apply it, especially around the bent part.
Nubuck leather Once every two months Dedicated protective spray Spray evenly about 20cm away from the surface and let it dry naturally.
PU leather Once every 2-3 months Protective for vinyl leather Take a small amount into a cloth and apply a thin layer to the surface.

Effective moisturizing care procedures

  1. cleaning: Before moisturizing care, remove dust and dirt from the surface with a dry, soft cloth.
  2. test: If you use new care products, test inconspicuous areas for fading or discoloration.
  3. Lightly painted: Apply a small amount of special cream or oil into a clean cloth and gently apply it in circular motions.
  4. Penetration time: Follow the product instructions to allow sufficient penetration time (usually 15-30 minutes).
  5. Extra removal: Gently wipe off any excess cream or oil with another clean cloth.
  6. Drying: Place in a well-ventilated place until completely dry (usually 24 hours).

Expert advice

"The trick to caring for leather products is to focus on frequency, even if it's small amounts. Using moderate amounts regularly will help keep your leather in good condition than using large amounts of oil or cream at once. Also, leather does not moisturize too well, so it's important to find a 'just right' balance."

3-2. Protection from environmental factors

Much of the damage to leather products is due to storage and usage environments. By paying attention to the following points, you can prevent cracking due to environmental factors.

① Protection from direct sunlight and heat

  • Select a storage location: Store leather products in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
  • Caution when leaving the car in the car: Do not leave leather products in the car, especially in the summer.
  • Distance from the heat source: Store away from heat sources such as heaters, fireplaces, and cooking utensils.

② Humidity control

  • Appropriate humidity: The ideal storage humidity for leather products is 40-60%.
  • Dehumidification measures: Moisture-proofing agents and silica gel are used in high humidity environments.
  • Humidification measures: In extremely dry winters, consider placing a humidifier near leather products.

③ Protection from moisture and dirt

  • Waterproof spray: Use a waterproof spray before seasonal changes or rainy seasons.
  • Quick response: If water or dirt gets on it, wipe it off immediately with a soft cloth.
  • Regular cleaning: After use, gently wipe the surface with a dry cloth to keep it clean.

3-3. Proper use

Daily use also has a major impact on the lifespan of leather products. By paying attention to the following points, you can minimize damage from use:

1) Reducing physical stress

  • Avoid excessive bend: Avoid repeated bending of the same area, especially belts and wallets.
  • Suitable storage: Do not pack excessive amounts into your bag or wallet.
  • Dispersing usage: If possible, multiple leather products can be used in rotation to reduce the burden on one product.

② Belt-specific points

  • Select size: By choosing the right size belt that suits your body, you can avoid excessive tensile stress.
  • How to use holes:If possible, use multiple holes instead of the same hole in any case to reduce the strain on one spot.
  • How to remove the belt: When removing the belt, pulling it out from a distance from the buckle will reduce stress on the leather.

③ Things to note about bags

  • Maintain the shape: When not in use, we recommend filling the inside to prevent it from losing its shape.
  • Handle burden distribution: When putting heavy loads in, use a shoulder strap if possible to distribute the burden on the handle.
  • Prevent surface rubbing: The bag avoids contact with rough surfaces or sharp objects, preventing damage caused by rubbing.

3-4. The importance of initial care

Early care before use is especially important for new leather products. The following steps can greatly extend the lifespan of your leather products.

Initial care procedures for new leather products

  1. Wipe off the surface: First, wipe off surface dust and manufacturing residues with a dry, soft cloth.
  2. First moisturizing: Apply a thin moisturizer suitable for the type of leather to allow it to penetrate well.
  3. Ensuring penetration time: Take longer than usual (24-48 hours) to allow the moisturizer to penetrate well.
  4. Waterproof treatment: Use a waterproof spray to protect the surface if necessary.
  5. Getting started: The use time will gradually increase over the first few weeks, and the leather will naturally accustom you to it.

4. How to repair a cracked crack

Even if a leather product has already cracked, proper measures can be taken to minimize damage and extend the life of the product. We will introduce repair methods that are based on the degree of cracking.

4-1. Repairing mild cracks

If the damage is mild enough to have fine cracks on the surface, you can deal with it by following the following method:

Mild crack repair procedure

  1. cleaning: First, wipe the cracked area and its surroundings with a dry, soft cloth.
  2. Moisturizing care: A highly moisturizing conditioner and oil specifically for leather is applied to cracked areas with a focus.
  3. Penetration massage: Gently massage with the pad of your fingers and allow the moisturizer to penetrate the cracked area thoroughly.
  4. Enough penetration time: Exercise the moisturizer for a longer period of time (24-48 hours).
  5. Repeat as needed: If no effect is seen after one session, repeat 2-3 times every few days.
  6. Protection treatment:Finally, protect the surface with a waterproof spray or something similar to prevent further damage.

Recommended Repair Products

  • Highly moisturizing leather balm: It penetrates deeply into dry leather, especially deeper and restores flexibility.
  • Leather heel liquid: A special leather repair solution can fill in fine cracks.
  • Leather oil: It penetrates deep into the area and softens the leather fibers.

Particularly effective methods

The "digestion method" is effective for mild cracking. After applying a moisturizer, warm it slightly with the mild wind from a hair dryer (be careful not to get too hot), then wrap it around the leather and leave it overnight to allow the moisturizing ingredients to penetrate deeply.

4-2. Repairing medium cracks

A more aggressive approach to repair is required for cracks that can be clearly seen with the naked eye.

Medium crack repair procedure

  1. Preparation: Carefully clean cracked areas with a soft brush or cloth.
  2. Using leather filler: Apply a leather-specific filler (gap filler) to the cracked areas.
  3. Uniforming: Use a spatula or card to flatten the filler.
  4. Drying: Wait for the filler to dry completely (usually 24 hours).
  5. Color matching: If necessary, match the color of the filler area with leather dye.
  6. Moisturize and protect: Finally, apply a moisturizer and protect it with a waterproof spray.

Materials and tools

  • Leather Filler: Special filler for filling cracks
  • Leather dye: Dye to match the colour of the repaired area
  • Applicator: Tools for evenly applying filler
  • Waterproof spray: Used for protection after repair

4-3. Dealing with severe cracking

If there is a severe crack that reaches deep into the leather, consider a professional repair or use the following first aid measures:

1) Use of professional repair services

  • Requests from a specialty store: For high-grade leather products or cracks in structurally important areas, we recommend that you contact a professional repair shop.
  • Leather regeneration treatment: Specialist stores can repair using advanced technology, such as recycling leather and patchwork repairs.

② First aid for DIY

If you find it difficult to repair professionally or need emergency first aid, try these methods:

First aid for severe cracks

  1. Using leather adhesives: Apply a flexible adhesive specifically for leather from the back of the cracked area.
  2. Use of reinforcement materials: If necessary, glue thin pieces of leather or fabric to the back to reinforce.
  3. Surface treatment: The surface is treated according to the medium crack repair procedure mentioned above.
  4. Usage restrictions: Even after repair, we will use it in ways that will prevent excessive stress from being put on the area.

Important points to note

Leather products with severe cracks can be difficult to completely restore to their original state. Cracks in areas that are particularly subject to frequent forces (around the hole in the belt, the base of the bag handle, etc.) should be used with caution even after repair. If you are looking for high-end leather products, consider professional repairs as a priority.

4-4. Post-repair care

Once cracks are repaired, special care is required to prevent recurrence.

  • Regular moisturizing: Moisturize more frequently than usual (once every 1-2 months).
  • Reviewing usage instructions: Identify the cause of cracks and improve usage.
  • Revising the environment: Check whether the storage environment is appropriate and improve it if necessary.
  • Regular checks: Check the repair area regularly and carefully observe it for any abnormalities.

5. Specific care procedures to prevent cracking of the belt

Belts are often used on a daily basis, and are particularly susceptible to the stress of bends and pulling, making them one of the leather products that are prone to cracking. Below we will explain in detail the unique care methods and crack prevention measures that are typical of belts.

5-1. Daily care of the belt

The simple care you take after daily use will greatly affect the lifespan of your belt.

Daily Care Procedures for Belts

  1. Wipe after use: After use, lightly wipe the surface with a dry, soft cloth to remove sweat and dirt.
  2. Storage on a hanger: It is ideal to store the belt without folding it, but hang it on a special belt hanger or a wide range of hooks.
  3. Use rotation: If possible, prepare multiple belts and use them in different ways in daily rotations to reduce the burden on one belt.
  4. Care around the buckle:Sweat and moisture tend to accumulate in areas that come into contact with metal parts, so wipe off this area especially carefully.

5-2. Regular maintenance for belts

By performing the following regular maintenance once every 1 to 3 months, you can make your belt last longer.

Regular belt maintenance procedure

  1. Overall cleaning: Carefully clean the entire surface using a leather-specific cleaner.
  2. Parts that need special attention: Clean the area around the holes, bent areas, and surfaces that come into contact with the buckle are particularly careful.
  3. Moisturizing care: Apply moisturizers suitable for the type of leather, especially on the periphery of the hole and the folded area.
  4. Enough penetration time: Take 12-24 hours to ensure that the moisturizer is fully absorbed.
  5. Buckle care: Polish the metal parts with a special cleaner and pay particular attention to the contact areas between the leather and the metal.
  6. Protection treatment:Finally lightly spray with a waterproof leather spray to protect the surface.

5-3. Locations of risk of cracks unique to belts and countermeasures

There are some parts of the belt that are particularly prone to cracking. Take the following measures for each part:

Risk Site Cause of occurrence Preventive measures
Around the hole Stress caused by frequent attachment and removal and pulling - Use multiple holes
- Moisturize the area around the hole with emphasis
- Make sure to put on and take off correctly
Belt tip Friction when inserted into the buckle - Do not pull hard when inserting
- Moisturize the tip part especially carefully
- Check if the metal edge is not sharp
Buckle mounting section Friction due to contact and movement with metal - Check the condition of the joints periodically
- Prevents rust on metal parts
- Be careful of moisturizing the joints
The part that is always bent Bending stress when wrapped around the waist - Store flat after use
- Rotating multiple belts
- Focused moisturizing of the folded part

5-4. Correct way to put on and take off the belt

How to put on and take off the belt also has a major impact on the risk of cracking. Try to follow the correct method below.

Correct instructions for attaching and removing the belt

  1. When worn: Do not pull the belt hard, and pass it through the hole with moderate force.
  2. When adjusting: When adjusting the position of the hole, loosen it and then tighten it again.
  3. When removing: Pulling out the leather from the farthest from the buckle reduces stress.
  4. When stored: After removal, immediately hang it on a hanger or store it flat.

Professional techniques

"The key to extending the life of a belt is to take extra care of the 'contact surface with the metal part. The contact area between the metal and leather is likely to accumulate moisture and sweat, and also cause friction. Just by carefully wiping this area once a week with a dry cloth, you can significantly reduce the risk of cracking."

6. Leather Product Care Guide by Season and Condition

The appropriate method of care for leather products varies depending on the season and specific circumstances. Below we will introduce seasonal care methods and methods for care under special circumstances.

6-1. Seasonal care points

Spring and Summer Care

  • Sweat prevention: After use, always wipe off sweat with a dry cloth and allow it to dry thoroughly.
  • Anti-mold measures: In high temperature and humidity environments, we also consider using anti-mold sprays.
  • Sunburn prevention: Use a leather UV protector to protect against ultraviolet rays.
  • Frequency adjustment: In the summer, moisturizing care is provided about once every two months.
  • Storage location: Store in a cool, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight.

Autumn and Winter Care

  • Dryness prevention: In winter when the air is dry, use more moisturizing creams and oils.
  • Rain and snow prevention: Protect the surface with a waterproof spray before rain or snow season.
  • Frequency adjustment: In winter, we provide thorough moisturizing care once every 1-2 months.
  • Heating measures: Be careful not to place leather products near heating appliances.
  • Salt damage prevention: After using on snowy roads, be sure to wipe off the product as there may be salt content.

6-2. Care methods under special circumstances

① Care during long-term storage

When storing leather products that will not be used for a long period of time, be sure to note the following points:

Long-term storage procedure

  1. Pre-cleaning: Carefully clean with a leather cleaner before storing.
  2. Enough moisturizing: Apply a slightly more moisturizer than usual and allow it to penetrate well.
  3. Maintain the shape: The bag is stuffed to prevent it from losing its shape, and the belt is made of a special hanger.
  4. Ensuring breathability: Wrapped in a dustproof cover or non-woven fabric to ensure breathability.
  5. Appropriate environment: Store in a place that is not exposed to direct sunlight and has stable temperature and humidity.
  6. Regular checks: If possible, check the condition once every 2-3 months.

② Emergency care in case of rain

If you have rain or wet leather products, take the following measures immediately:

Emergency care for wet leather products

  1. Absorption of moisture: First, gently absorb moisture with a dry, soft cloth or paper towel.
  2. Organizing shapes: Shape the bag and stuff it with dry paper or cloth inside.
  3. Naturally dry: Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources and let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated place.
  4. Care after dryness: After it is completely dry (moisturizing for more than 24 hours).
  5. Waterproof treatment: After drying, use a waterproof spray to prevent recurrence.

Things to note

When drying wet leather products, please avoid the following methods:

  • Forced drying with a dryer or heating device
  • Drying in direct sunlight
  • Continue using it while wet

These can cause the leather to shrink rapidly and harden rapidly, causing irreparable cracks.

③ Travel care

If you are traveling or are traveling a lot, try the following care methods:

  • Preparation before departure: Use a waterproof spray before your trip to provide light moisturizing care.
  • Portable care kit: Bring small leather wet tissues and a moisturizing mini bottle.
  • Daily care: After use, always wipe with a dry cloth and shape it in the hotel room.
  • Responding to environmental changes: Increases moisturizing in dry environments, and breathes in high humidity environments.
  • Care after returning home: When you return from your trip, you will receive overall care immediately.

7. Recommended leather care items

It is important to use appropriate care items to prevent cracking of leather products and to keep them beautiful for a long period of time. Below we will introduce recommended care items for different purposes.

7-1. Basic care items

Purpose of care Recommended items Frequency of use Suitable types of leather
Daily cleaning Soft microfiber cloth Every time after use All leather products
Regular moisturizing Leather conditioner and cream Once every 2-3 months Full grain leather, crazy horse leather
Waterproof protection Leather waterproof spray Changes in seasons (3-4 times a year) All natural leather
Deep moisturizing Leather oil About once every six months Leather that is particularly prone to dryness and cracked leather
cleaning Leather cleaner When dirt is noticeable All leather products (select according to type)

7-2. Recommended care items for leather types

① For crazy horse leather

  • Crazy Horse Leather Wax: Moisturizes while maintaining a unique texture.
  • Beeswax-based cream: Gives a natural luster and increases water resistance.
  • Horse oil: Moisturizes deep to the surface with natural oils and maintains flexibility.

Crazy Horse Leather Waistback_Ais a practical item that can be used for a long time with proper care.

② For general genuine leather

  • Leather cream conditioner: Moisturizes and nourishes and restores flexibility.
  • Leather Protector: Protects leather from UV rays and moisture.
  • Leather soap: Gently removes dirt and maintains the original texture of the leather.

Genuine leather productsRegular care can help maintain beauty for a long time.

③ For PU leather

  • Vinyl and synthetic leather cleaner: Removes dirt from the surface and prevents deterioration.
  • UV protection spray: Prevents deterioration caused by ultraviolet rays.
  • Synthetic leather conditioner: Maintains surface flexibility.

PU leather productsThis is a more cost-effective item with proper care.

7-3. Care kits for different situations

① Travel mini care kit

  • Leather wet tissue: For easy cleaning on the go
  • Mini-sized leather balm: For moisturizing care in emergencies
  • Small waterproof spray: Preparing for a sudden rain

② Emergency repair kit

  • Leather Filler: To repair small cracks
  • Highly moisturizing leather balm: To recover from dry leather
  • Leather adhesive: For emergency repairs

Tips for choosing care items

"When choosing a care item for leather products, it is most important to choose the one that is suitable for the material, color and finish of the product. We especially recommend that dye-dyed leather (aniline leather) be tested on inconspicuous areas, taking into account the possibility of fading. Also, even if products containing silicone appear to have good effects in the short term, they can interfere with the leather's breathing and speed up deterioration in the long term, so caution is required."

8. FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Cracks

Q1. Is it possible to completely prevent cracking of leather products?

A: It is difficult to prevent it completely, but proper care and use can significantly reduce the risk. Regular moisturizing care and proper storage are especially the most effective precautions. Since leather is a natural material, natural changes over time due to use are inevitable, but proper care can lead to aging that will deepen the texture and make it beautiful.

Q2. How often should I apply oil or cream to my belt?

A: It depends on the type of leather, usage environment, and frequency, but the following frequency is generally recommended:

  • For normal use: Approximately once every 2-3 months
  • If you use it frequently: Once every 1-2 months
  • Dry environments and winter environments: More frequently (about once a month)
  • New initial care: Starting use and 1 month after use

It is also important to adjust the leather while checking the condition. If you feel that the leather is dry and hard, we recommend taking care of it at that point.

Q3. Can I repair belts and wallets that have already cracked?

A: It depends on the degree of cracking:

  • Mild cracking: It can often be improved with proper moisturizing care. Using highly moisturizing leather balms and oils, and repeatedly moisturizing over several days can restore both appearance and function.
  • Medium cracking: A certain amount of repair is possible by using a special leather filler or a restoration kit.
  • Severe cracking: Cracks that reach deep in leather can be difficult to fully repair by DIY. You may also be asked to contact a professional repair shop or, especially if you have structural issues, consider replacing it with a new product for safety.

Q4. Why is it particularly prone to cracking around the holes in the belt?

A: The reasons why the area around the belt hole is prone to cracking are:

  • Physical stress: When tightening the belt, a tensile force is applied intensively around the hole.
  • The structural weakness of leather: By drilling holes, the leather fibers in that area are cut off, making them structurally weaker.
  • Contact with metal: The contact between the buckle pin and the leather causes friction and pressure to apply.
  • Sweat and oil: Because it is a part close to the body, sweat and sebum are likely to adhere to it, which can promote deterioration of the leather.

Countermeasures include using multiple holes differently, taking particular care of the area around the holes, and taking proper precautions for attaching and removing the holes.

Q5. Is there a difference in how to deal with cracks between PU leather (synthetic leather) and genuine leather?

A: Yes, there is a big difference:

  • In the case of genuine leather: Because it is a natural material, it can prevent and improve cracking by moisturizing it from inside. Oils and creams penetrate the inside of the fibers, regaining flexibility.
  • For PU leather: Since the surface coating is the main focus, penetrating care to the inside is limited. The main focus is on surface protection, and special vinyl leather care products are used. PU leather deteriorates due to changes in molecular structure over time, so radical repair can be difficult.

What both have in common is the importance of avoiding direct sunlight, storing properly, and regular care.

Q6. Can I use edible oils (such as olive oil) that I have at home to care for leather products?

A: It may be useful as a temporary solution in emergencies, but is not recommended for the long term. The reasons are as follows:

  • Oxidation problems: Cooking oils oxidize over time, causing the leather to deteriorate.
  • Containing impurities: Cooking oils may contain inappropriate additives and impurities in the leather.
  • Lack of proper penetration: Oils and creams specifically designed for leather are designed to have penetration that is suitable for leather fibers.
  • Risk of discoloration: Especially light-colored leather, there is a risk of stains and discoloration due to cooking oil.

We recommend using care products developed specifically for leather except in emergencies.

Q7. Do new leather products need moisturizing care?

A: Yes, it's especially important. Initial care is recommended for new leather products for the following reasons:

  • The impact of manufacturing process: The leather may dry out during manufacturing or transportation.
  • Formation of protective layers: Initial moisturizing care forms a protective layer that protects the leather from the external environment.
  • Improved flexibility: Proper moisturizing will relieve the hardness that is typical of new products and improve the usability.
  • The foundations of long lifespan: Proper care from the beginning is the basis for the longevity of leather products.

Normally, new leather products can be kept beautiful for a long time by moisturizing care after purchase and one month after use.Crazy Horse Leather ProductsIn this case, initial care is especially important to bring out the unique texture.

Q8. How should we deal with rain-wet leather products?

A: It is important to deal with rain-wet leather products using the following steps:

  1. Fast moisture removal: Gently absorb moisture with a soft, dry cloth or paper towel. Wipe it down without rubbing.
  2. Maintain the shape: Shape the bag and stuff it with dry paper or cloth inside. The belt should be stretched flat.
  3. Naturally dry: Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources (dryers, heaters, etc.) and let them dry naturally at a well-ventilated room temperature. Rapid drying causes the leather to shrink and harden.
  4. Check for complete dryness: Allow to dry completely over 24-48 hours.
  5. Care after dryness: After making sure it is completely dry, carefully care for it with a moisturizing cream or oil.
  6. Waterproof treatment: After drying and care, use a waterproof spray to prevent recurrence.

When leather products get wet, the oil inside will be washed away, and when they dry, they harden and increase the risk of cracking, so prompt action is extremely important.

Summary: To keep your leather products beautiful for a long time

Cracks in leather products can be significantly prevented with proper care and usage. By keeping regular moisturizing care, proper storage environment, and proper use, you can continue to use your favorite leather products beautifully for years. In particular, it is important to make it a habit to care for belts that are frequently used frequently.

It is also important to understand that the appropriate care methods differ depending on the type of leather, and to select the best care product for each.Crazy Horse LeatherorGenuine leather productsBy providing proper care, the more you use it, the more you develop it, and it will provide a long-term, satisfying experience that will give you a long-term, highly satisfying experience.

If you are looking for high-quality leather products, please take a look at the following products from cowmono:

Author information

Yama (cowmono Owner)

Author name: Yama (cowmono Owner)

Occupation: Slowth Lab Representative

He is engaged in sales and marketing for apparel companies both in Japan and abroad over quarterly. He has a deep knowledge of fashion, sports, outdoor activities, and subculture.