Leather Care 101: How to Maintain Your Handcrafted Leather Goods
Your handcrafted leather goods—whether it's a premium dog collar, a rugged belt, or bushcraft gear—are built to last a lifetime. But like any quality investment, they need proper care to maintain their beauty and durability. Here's everything you need to know about caring for your leather items.
Understanding Your Leather
At Old Country Leather, we use full-grain leather because it's the highest quality available. Unlike cheaper alternatives, full-grain leather develops a rich patina over time, becoming more beautiful with age. This natural aging process is part of what makes leather special, but it requires the right care.
Daily Care: The Basics
Keep it dry: Leather and water don't mix well. If your leather gets wet, pat it dry with a soft cloth and let it air dry naturally—never use direct heat like a hairdryer or radiator, as this can cause cracking.
Brush off dirt: Use a soft brush or dry cloth to remove dust and dirt regularly. For dog collars and leashes, a quick wipe-down after muddy walks prevents buildup.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Keep leather away from household cleaners, alcohol-based products, and harsh soaps. These can strip the natural oils and damage the finish.
Deep Cleaning Your Leather
Every few months, your leather items benefit from a deeper clean:
- Use a leather cleaner: Apply a small amount of leather-specific cleaner to a soft cloth and gently wipe the surface in circular motions.
- Remove excess: Wipe away any residue with a clean, damp cloth.
- Let it dry: Allow the leather to air dry completely before conditioning.
Conditioning: The Secret to Longevity
Leather needs moisture to stay supple. Without it, it becomes dry, stiff, and prone to cracking. Condition your leather goods every 3-6 months, or more frequently if they're exposed to harsh conditions.
How to condition:
- Choose a quality leather conditioner (avoid products with silicone or petroleum) We offer the perfect conditioner.
- Apply a small amount to a soft cloth
- Rub into the leather using circular motions
- Let it absorb for 15-20 minutes
- Buff with a clean cloth to restore shine
Storage Tips
Keep it cool and dry: Store leather in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Avoid plastic bags: Leather needs to breathe. Use cotton dust bags or simply hang items in your closet.
Maintain shape: For belts and straps, hang them or roll them loosely. Avoid folding, which can create permanent creases.
Dealing with Common Issues
Scratches: Minor scratches often blend in as the leather develops patina. For deeper scratches, gently rub with your finger—the natural oils can help minimize their appearance.
Water spots: If water spots appear, dampen the entire surface lightly and evenly, then let it dry naturally. This helps the color even out.
Stiffness: If leather becomes stiff, it needs conditioning. Apply conditioner and work the leather gently to restore flexibility.
Special Care for Dog Collars and Leashes
Dog gear takes extra abuse from weather, dirt, and moisture. Clean your dog's collar and leash weekly with a damp cloth, and condition monthly. Check hardware regularly for wear, and wipe down metal components to prevent rust.
The Patina Process
One of the most beautiful aspects of quality leather is how it ages. The patina—that rich, deep color that develops over time—is a sign of well-loved leather. Embrace it! Each mark and color variation tells the story of your adventures together.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your leather goods doesn't have to be complicated. With regular cleaning, occasional conditioning, and proper storage, your handcrafted leather items will serve you faithfully for decades. At Old Country Leather, we build our products to become heirlooms and with the right care, they'll be just that.
Have questions about caring for your specific leather item? Reach out to us—we're always happy to help you get the most out of your investment.
