black leather bifold wallet on brown textile

Leather is beautiful, practical, and capable of being used for a wide variety of crafts. A high-quality, handmade leather product has the potential to last for many years, if not decades – and still look as good as the day you bought it.

But if you want your leather to last as long as it can, you’ll need to properly maintain it. Here’s how.

The Many Applications of Leather

First, you should understand that there are many different types of leather products, and they all require slightly different approaches to care. Durable, rugged leather boots, for example, may be designed to withstand the elements better than a fashionable leather purse.

Over time, leather is naturally going to suffer some scratches, stains, and other problems – and these problems are more acceptable for certain types of products. In fact, you may prefer the appearance of leather that has weathered the test of time.

Leather Treatment Options

There are many different leather treatment options available, each of which serves a different purpose.

  • Polish. Depending on the polishing product you’re using, it may be more about aesthetics than cleaning or protection. Some polishing products have elements that allow them to support moisturization, but most are simply designed to make your leather products seem shinier and newer. There’s nothing wrong with this, but your leather will require additional care.
  • Conditioner. Conditioners and creams are designed to moisturize your leather, preventing it from drying out or cracking. It’s a protective measure that should be applied regularly; depending on the type of product you’re using and the type of conditioner or cream you’re using, this should be done every few months.
  • Lanolin. Lanolin is a specific type of waxy product that comes from sheep. It’s a divisive product in leather communities since it can moisturize leather but also soften it. It’s good for certain types of leather products that are meant to be softer.
  • Waterproofing wax. Waxes and sprays can provide a waterproof coating to your leather product; they’re usually reserved for shoes but are largely unnecessary. These types of products are especially valuable if you’re going to be wearing your leather in inclement weather.
  • A damp cloth. The most important treatment you can give your leather is regular cleaning with a basic damp cloth. While many of the other products on this list are valuable, this is a staple that is indispensable.

General Tips for Taking Care of Leather

These tips can help you keep your leather in the best condition for as long as possible:

  • Avoid sunlight and heat. If you stay out in the sun too long, you’re going to get sunburned, and your skin will get dry. If you leave leather out in the sun, it’s going to dry and crack. For the most part, you should avoid exposing your leather items to direct sunlight or heat. If your leather gets wet, you may be tempted to dry it in the sun, but you’re much better off absorbing that moisture with a dry cloth.
  • Promote airflow. In certain environments, leather can grow mildew, rot, and decay, which is why it’s important to store your leather in a place that promotes airflow. Give your leather plenty of opportunities to breathe.
  • Dry moisture quickly. Leather is naturally water resistant, but excessive moisture can ruin it. If you spill something on your leather product, or if it gets damp, work to dry it as quickly as you can with a dry cloth.
  • Always test new products. When trying out a new leather conditioner, cream, wax, or polish, always take the time to test the product on an inconspicuous portion of the leather. Occasionally, these products can cause unintentional staining or discoloration, so it’s valuable to verify their integrity before totally applying it.
  • Clean regularly. Leather benefits from frequent cleaning, so take the time to clean it with a damp cloth. There’s nothing special you need to do here; just wipe it down and allow it to dry.
  • Condition periodically. Conditioning is one of the best ways to promote healthy moisture and leather and prevent cracks due to drying. Depending on how much you use this product and the conditions in which you use it, you may need to do this annually, every three months, or something in between.
  • Treat waterproofing as optional. Waterproofing is good for boots you plan on wearing in wet conditions, but it’s not strictly necessary. You can safely treat it as optional for most applications.

When treated properly, certain types of leather products can last for decades. If you buy full-grain leather from a reputable craftsman and you take proper care of it, it could last over 100 years. You may not see that type of longevity in the products you buy, but if you’re willing to practice proactive care, you may be able to get close.