Caring for Your Leather Fashion Accessories
It may not surprise you that natural leather ages and ultimately deteriorates with time. Much like with our own skin, it constantly needs attention and care. There are many moisturizing leather care products that can help you with this task or at least delay the process. In this article, I will explore the ways you can look after your leather handbags or fashion accessories and, ultimately, add value and character to your piece of leather.
(Photo; Bidinis Handbags)
Reasons for leather deteriorating
Abrasion
When it comes to the abrasion process, it can be either external or internal. The latter happens when dirt particles have gone into the leather, hurting it as time goes by, whereas the external is due to rubbing or scratching.
Chemical damage
The reality is that most leathers are exposed to chemicals, sunlight or nitrous pollutants in the air. Especially when exposed to higher temperatures, the process of chemical damage or oxidation will happen a lot faster. For these reasons, try to store leathers far away from heat and sunlight.
Oxidation
The process of oxidation is quite common in very old leather, and it is easy to determinate that by seeing that the leather is either flaky or cracking. That is why moisturizing will help prolong the life of your item, provided that you use good quality products designed for leather.
Caring for your leather fashion accessories
(Photo: Rugged Material Travel Goods)
Dirt
Here is the good news: small dirt marks can be easily cleaned with warm water and elbow grease. If you are a bit wary about using products that are not solely designed for leather, look for cleaning satchels called “Satchel Knight.” This solution contains natural oils capable of removing or masking stains. In terms of method of usage, the trick is not applying too much pressure, because high pressure is thought to damage the leather or remove the finish.
Scuffs and scratches
If you are under the illusion that scratches can be prevented, you might be disappointed. Although it will be very hard to guarantee that this will not happen, you can try to avoid sharp objects from being in the vicinity of the leather.
Another way to protect your accessories is to apply Vaseline or polish. This will act as a protective layer which will make them a tiny bit more durable. Repeat this process every couple of weeks, and it will help create fine patinas as time goes by.
Rain and water
In an ideal world, leather should not get wet. However, it is likely inevitable that your accessory might get exposed to some moisture or water. You should wipe it as soon as possible and allow it to dry naturally. An important aspect is to not force-dry leather by using extreme heat. Additionally, remember to not place the leather on radiators, as normal room temperature should suffice in allowing it to dry naturally.
If you live in a country like England, where weather is quite an inconvenience when it comes to leather products, then I would suggest purchasing waterproof products which will protect against environmental problems.
Conclusion
There are many ways in which you can ensure that leathers are kept in an almost-pristine condition. There are products which can help you achieve that, however the most important thing is to understand when and how damage can occur, as prevention is the best tool.
Article by Andrea
