As mindful purchasing grows, investing in quality pieces is more important than ever. Leather goods—genuine or faux—are meant to be worn and cherished for years, developing unique signs of use.
Instead of discarding them at the first sign of wear, a little care can restore them for seasons to come. Many of us are now investigating how we can look after the products we invest in, with TikTok searches for “leather restoration services” surging 124% in the last 12 months.
To help us care for our investment pieces, leather care expert Julian Nelson looked at the Michael Kors collection and shares his essential tips on preserving leather goods, enhancing their appearance, and tackling common leather woes—helping you extend the life of your favourite pieces and keep them looking their best.
Caring for Different Types of Leather
When it comes to leathers ‘beauty’ routine, it’s not one size fits all. Each type of leather requires specialised care to ensure longevity and a polished appearance.
Julian explains that “Because leather is a soft, natural material, it easily shows signs of wear and tear. While the patina of a well-worn leather club chair can add character, scuffed shoes or ink-stained handbags often have the opposite effect. Regular maintenance of a designer handbag, or your favourite pair of leather shoes, will keep it looking its best while extending its lifespan.”
Before cleaning any kind of leather, Julian advises to “make sure the item is completely dry. For shoes, remove the laces and insert shoe trees (or crumpled paper can be used as an alternative) and for handbags or jackets, empty all pockets and lay the item on a clean, flat surface. It’s best to work on a protective surface like newspaper or an old towel to prevent any mess.”
Full-Grain & Top-Grain Leather
This high-quality leather is durable and ages beautifully, but it needs regular conditioning to keep it looking it’s best.
- Cleaning: Use a cloth to remove dirt, followed by a leather conditioner to prevent drying.
- Protection: Apply a leather protectant to shield against stains and moisture.
- Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Patent Leather
Known for its glossy finish, patent leather is prone to smudges and scuffs but fear not, these tend to be easily remedied.
- Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, damp cloth and a drop of mild soap.
- Polishing: A dab of mineral oil or petroleum jelly restores shine.
- Scuff Removal: Use a non-acetone nail polish remover on a cotton pad to buff out marks.
Suede & Nubuck
These soft, velvety materials require extra care as they are more delicate and are prone to marks and staining.
- Cleaning: Use a suede brush to remove dirt and restore texture.
- Stain Removal: Cornstarch helps absorb grease stains, while a white vinegar solution lifts watermarks.
- Waterproofing: A suede-protectant spray helps guard against moisture and stains.
Caring for Faux Leather
Faux leather offers a stylish and cruelty-free alternative to genuine leather, but it requires a unique care approach. Unlike natural leather, synthetic alternatives can crack or peel if not maintained properly.
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe faux leather accessories with a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and prevent buildup.
- Moisturising & Conditioning: Apply a small amount of baby oil or petroleum jelly to keep the material supple and prevent drying.
- Avoid Excessive Heat & Sunlight: Direct exposure to sunlight and heat sources can cause faux leather to become brittle and fade.
Enhancing the Appearance of Leather Accessories
Over time, leather bags and shoes may lose their sheen or develop wrinkles. Julian explains that “dirt, dust, and product buildup can clog the pores of the leather, preventing it from breathing and leading to a dull, worn-out appearance.”
A little upkeep can go a long way, helping restore their original charm and keeping them as a wardrobe staple for years to come. Julain gives his top tips below:
- Polishing & Buffing: After conditioning or polishing, buff the leather with a horsehair brush or a soft microfiber cloth to bring out its natural sheen. For shoes, a final buff with a pair of tights or pop socks can create a high-gloss shine. Handbags and jackets should be gently buffed rather than vigorously polished to maintain their natural softness.
- Storage Matters: Keeping leather dry is just as important as keeping it clean. Keeping leather dry is as crucial as keeping it clean. Store unused shoes and bags in dust bags to prevent dust from drying out natural oils. Never store damp leather—it can lead to mould and rot. Always air dry at room temperature, avoiding direct heat or sunlight to prevent cracking.
- Shape Maintenance: Insert shoe trees in leather shoes and use bag shapers for purses to retain their structure.
Common Leather Challenges & How to Fix Them
Even with careful handling, leather accessories are prone to everyday mishaps. Here’s how to tackle the most frequent issues:
Watermarks & Stains
Spills can be a nightmare for leather items. If your leather bag or shoes get wet, blot (don’t rub) with a dry microfiber cloth and let them air dry naturally, away from direct heat. For persistent watermarks, an expert suggests dabbing the area with a slightly damp cloth and blending outward to even out the moisture.
Scuff Marks
For minor scuffs, a soft eraser or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can help buff out the imperfections. Apply with a cotton ball and gently rub the affected area in a circular motion.
Grease & Oil Stains
Grease stains can be tricky but sprinkling cornstarch or baking soda on the area and letting it sit overnight helps absorb the oil. Wipe away the residue with a soft cloth the next day.
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