Leather care for different seasons: A LeatherBlues guide
Leather is a versatile material and goods made out of leather such as leather clothing and accessories can be used throughout the year but your favorite leather goods need proper care according to changing seasons. As different season brings different whether conditions and challenges but do not worry as there is a way to deal with every changing phase of climate.
In this article, we are going to share some very effective ways of leather care for different seasons. We will discuss every season throughout the year starting from spring to all the way up to harsh winters. From basic leather conditions to advanced protection methods, we are going to cover everything in this article. So let’s get started with the first one which is the spring season
Table of Contents
1.| Spring season
We will start with the first season of the year that is spring season. It starts in march and goes all the way to the end of April. It is important to discuss here as in this season we start getting our leather jackets out of storage after the long usage during the winter. But before you flaunt that stylish leather jacket or rock those chic boots, they might need a little DIY to awaken from their winter slumber. Here’s how to clean and condition your leather after winter storage, ensuring it looks and feels its best:
Reviving Leather After Storage
Give your leather goods a thorough dusting with a soft, clean cloth. This removes any surface dirt, dust mites, or cobwebs that might have accumulated during storage.
Now look for any cracks, tears, or mold growth during storage. Minor issues might be treatable with at-home solutions, but for significant damage, consider consulting a leather professional.
Cleaning
Now, with the help of a soft cloth and a good quality leather cleaner clean the leather by gentle rubbing in a circular motion, and for stubborn stains you might need a dedicated stain remover. Cleaning will remove any dist or debris and will also prepare the leather for conditioning
Conditioning
Conditioning is the basic step in leather care as it replenishes lost oils and moisture, keeping it supple, flexible, and resistant to cracking. Make sure to select the right leather conditioner and test it on a hidden area before applying. Use a clean cloth to apply a thin, even layer of conditioner to the entire leather surface. Once the conditioner has absorbed (around 15-20 minutes), buff the leather with a soft, clean cloth to remove any excess product and restore shine.
After cleaning and conditioning, let your leather goods air dry completely at room temperature. Avoid using direct sunlight or artificial heat sources, as this can damage the leather.
How to Protect Leather from Rain
Spring showers may bring flowers and also potential stains that can cause damage to your beloved leather pieces. Raindrops can leave unsightly water spots and lead to warping if not handled properly. Here’s how to protect your leather from rain and deal with any water spots that may appear.
A good quality leather waterproofing spray creates a barrier that repels water without harming the breathability of the leather. Look for sprays specifically formulated for your leather type (suede, full grain, etc.).
Before applying the spray, clean your leather with a gentle leather cleaner to remove any dirt or debris that might interfere with the waterproofing process.
Shake the spray can well and hold it around 8-12 inches from the leather surface. Apply thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding another. You can reapply the spray according to your usage and rain conditions
2.| Summer season
Here comes the good summer season which brings warmth, fun times, and the perfect opportunity to rock your favorite leather jackets, bags, and accessories. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to using and maintaining leather goods in summer.
Protecting Leather from Sun Damage
The sun is the number one enemy for the leather as its heat can make leather dry and brittle which will eventually result in cracking and fading of leather. You can choose a good quality leather UV protectant spray acts as a barrier against harmful UV rays, slowing down the fading process. Make sure to get a spray specifically formulated for your leather type (suede, full grain, etc.).
Clean your leather with a gentle leather cleaner to remove dirt or debris that might hinder the effectiveness of the spray.
Shake the spray can well and hold it 8-12 inches from the leather surface. Apply thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding another.
You can reapply the sun protection spray and the frequency depends on the intensity of sun and usage.
Leather and Humidity
Summer often brings not just sunshine, but also increased humidity. While we might enjoy the cooler nights, leather doesn’t share our enthusiasm. Humidity can wreak havoc on your favorite leather pieces, causing them to feel sticky, lose their shape, and even develop mold.
If your leather gets exposed to excessive humidity, avoid the temptation to rub it – this can trap moisture further. Instead, gently blot the surface with a clean, absorbent cloth (microfiber is ideal) to remove excess moisture.
Resist the urge to use direct heat sources like hair dryers or irons, as this can damage the leather. Allow it to air dry completely in a cool, well-ventilated area with good air circulation.
If possible, utilize air conditioning or fans to create a cooler, drier environment that promotes faster drying.
3.| Fall season
As the summer heat fades and cooler weather approaches, it’s time to give your favorite leather pieces a little DIY. Just like we prepare ourselves for the changing seasons, leather needs some extra care to stay supple and healthy during fall and winter. Fall and winter bring colder temperatures and often lower humidity levels. This can cause leather to lose its natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness, cracking, and stiffness. Fall and winter often mean more rain, snow, and salt from de-icing (in cold countries). These elements can further dry out leather and potentially cause staining.
Conditioning Leather for Fall and Winter
A good quality leather conditioner formulated for your specific type of leather (suede, full grain, etc.) helps replenish lost oils and moisture, keeping it supple, flexible, and resistant to cracking.
Conditioning creates a barrier that helps repel water and salt stains, minimizing damage from the harsher weather conditions of fall and winter.
4.| Winter season
Winter’s beauty comes with winter blues for our cherished leather goods. Snow and ice can cause damage to leather, causing water damage, stiffness, and even warping.
Protecting Leather from Snow and Ice
Invest in a high-quality leather waterproofing spray specifically formulated for your leather type (smooth leather, suede, etc.). Apply the spray according to the product instructions, creating a barrier that repels water and snow. Re-apply after heavy snowfall or slush exposure for continued protection.
If already encountered snow then as soon as possible, gently brush off any loose snow from your leather goods using a soft-bristled brush. This removes excess moisture before it can penetrate the leather.
Allow your leather goods to air dry completely at room temperature away from direct heat sources. Consider using a well-ventilated area with good air circulation to expedite drying. While drying, stuff your leather goods (boots, bags) with clean, acid-free tissue paper to maintain their shape and absorb any lingering moisture.
Winter Storage Tips
Before storing your leather, give it a thorough cleaning with a gentle leather cleaner specifically formulated for your type (suede, full grain, etc.). This removes dirt, sweat, and any lingering salt residue that might attract moisture during storage.
Consider using moisture packs specifically designed for leather storage. These packs release a controlled amount of moisture into the air, preventing the leather from drying out excessively. Do not use regular humidifier pads, as they can release too much moisture and damage your leather.
Keep your stored leather away from direct heat sources like radiators or fireplaces. Excessive heat can dry out the leather and cause warping.
It’s a good idea to check on your stored leather goods periodically throughout winter. Look for any signs of mold growth or excessive dryness. If necessary, you can re-apply a light coat of conditioner.
Conclusion
By following these tips for leather storage for different seasons, you can ensure your leather stays supple, protected, and ready to take center stage for decades. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in preserving your favorite leather pieces for years to come! Real leather holds a special charm that cannot be replicated by any artificial material. Leather’s natural essence and the uniqueness of each skin give it an irreplaceable character.
I hope my article is helpful to you and explains leather vs synthetic shoes well. If you have any doubts, feel free to ask in the comment section, and for more information on leather products, you can check our other articles or you can contact us. LeatherBlues is known as one of the best stores for real leather products. Explore our amazing collection of leather garments and services.
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