Skova Jewelry Design

Cleaning

In order to clean leather it is important to find a cleaner that will help preserve the natural lubricating oils in the leather, instead of stripping them. For example, saddle soap is meant to be used as a cleaner and a protector from moisture, but it strips the leather of the oils in the process of attempting to do two jobs at once. The cleaner of your choice should not leave any greasy residue behind. Any sort of residue can make leather susceptible to bacteria which may in turn, break down the stitching of your item. Before applying anything to your handbag, make sure to test it out for effect and possible color distortion on a small area that isn't visible to the eye. Once you've done this, apply it evenly over the surface of the handbag. With a slightly dampened cloth, remove the cleaning product. For areas with stitches, there are brushes available on the market. Another cleaning product to consider having in your leather care collection is a nubuck cleaning cloth. They have an astounding ability to clean and restore your handbag to its original look.

Conditioning

Leather conditioners only need to be used every 6-8 months depending on use of the handbag. They contain oils that help lubricate leather and also replenish the suppleness of the leather. The best conditioners will penetrate the strong fibers in leather, but beware of any that include petroleum or mineral oils (mineral oils dry leather).

Protection

Moisture barriers, ideally a water repellant, are extremely crucial in preventing rain or other liquid hazards like drinks or food from damaging leather. Stiffness and spouting will happen if leather isn't protected beforehand. As with conditioning, periodically apply a moisture barrier and allow it time to penetrate and dry before using your leather item.

Wet Leather

An important key to keeping leather in top-notch condition is to treat wet leather before it has a chance to dry. Remove any dirt, mud, or other stains with a cleaning agent, then condition while the pores are still fully responsive. It is critical to remember that leather should be dried away from heat. If the leather in question is a garment, it's a good idea to stuff the garment to retain shape.

Storing Your Handbag

Remember that the leathers on your handbag are a natural material and should never be stored in plastic because it encourages the growth of mildew and bacteria and will ruin the leather. Always store leather in its duster bag, in a cool, dry place away from heat.

Removing Stains

Fresh stains from things such as blood and food can be cleaned up quickly with a damp cloth. Stains from oil or grease can be lifted by grinding ordinary blackboard chalk, sprinkling the area, and leaving the powder on for a twenty-four hour period, but do not rub the powder in. After 2 hours has past, simply use a leather care brush to remove the powder and most of the stain should lift. Furthermore, while fresh stains can be treated and cleaned at home, ground-in stains should be taken care of by a professional cleaner who deals in leather.