Leather Care

Leather Protection and Care

•        Use a high-quality water and stain repellent product, like Leather and Suede Protector, to help prevent water stains and soiling. Use formulas free of silicone and wax, ingredients that break down the natural oils in leather. We recommend Wilsons Leather and Suede Protector for all types of

leather and suede. Apply immediately after purchasing your new leather item, and every two or three months with regular use.

•        Use a high quality leather lotion on a soft cloth to moisturize your finished leather. Wilsons Leather Lotion is specially formulated with lanolin oils to replenish natural oils and protect all fine, smooth and grained leather. Avoid using Wilsons Leather Lotion on suede or buffed leather (leather

that has a nap).

•        Avoid using cleaning fluid, shoe cream, saddle soap and mink oil. These products contain ingredients that may damage leather.

•        We recommend that you test any protection and cleaning products on a hidden area of the leather.

•        Don’t keep heavy objects, such as key chains, in your pockets. Doing so will stretch the leather.

• Do not allow the leather to be in direct sunlight for long exposure times. Do not put your garment on the dashboard of your vehicle for long periods of time. The UV exposure will break down the pigments in the dyes.

•        Avoid applying hair sprays and perfumes while wearing leather.

•        Don’t attach pins, adhesive badges or tape to leather.

•        Repair hems with a small amount of rubber cement.

Cleaning

•        Gently blot liquid stains with a clean cloth.

•        Winter salt stains your leather, wipe with a clean, damp cloth and dry naturally.

•        Visit a professional leather cleaner for more serious stains. Normal dry cleaning methods will remove essential oils, causing the leather to crack, fade and shrink. A cleaner who specializes in leather care will use a different method to clean and condition the leather. Even this special process

may cause slight variations in color, texture, and shape; so it is important to clean matching garments together.

Care When Wet

•        If your leather becomes wet, allow it to dry at room temperature. (Never put leather in the dryer.) Then apply Leather Protector.

•        If your garment has faux fur trim and the fur gets wet, dry it with a hair dryer set on the lowest temperature. Shake fur during the drying process, and periodically during wear to maintain loft and maximize appearance.

Storage

•        Store your leather coat or jacket on a wide wooden, plastic or padded hanger to help maintain its shape.

•        Store leather in a well-ventilated, cool, dry place. Avoid hot areas, such as attics; or damp areas, such as cellars.

•        Cover your leather with breathable cloth, like cotton sheets, when storing. Plastic bags or coverings will cause excessive drying.

•        Wrinkles and creases in leather should hang out. If ironing is necessary, place heavy brown paper over the leather and use a cool to medium iron. Take care not to overheat the leather, which will

cause it to shine.

•        Avoid exposing leather to direct sunlight or heat for prolonged periods of time.