Caring for Leather: A Complete Guide

Quality leather goods are an investment, and with the right care they will last a lifetime. The key is regular, gentle maintenance rather than emergency fixes after damage has occurred.

For bags and wallets, wipe down with a soft, damp cloth weekly to remove surface dust. Every month, apply a thin layer of leather conditioner to prevent drying and cracking. Store bags stuffed with tissue paper to maintain their shape.

Shoes require more attention due to daily wear. Use cedar shoe trees after every wear to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Clean with a horsehair brush, then apply cream polish matched to the leather colour. Let shoes rest at least 24 hours between wears.

For suede and nubuck, use a dedicated suede brush and protect with a waterproof spray before first wear. Avoid water contact where possible, and treat stains with a suede eraser rather than liquid cleaners.