How to Clean Leather: A Simple Guide

The fashion experts have spoken: leather is in style, it has always been in style, and it will always be in style. Leather is perfect for all accessories, ranging from purses and shoes to belts and wallets.

Why is leather such a timeless material? It’s durable, tough, and elegant all at the same time. The only problem is that a lot of people don’t know how to care for their leather properly.

If you don’t know how to clean leather, you’re in the right place. We’ve got the tips you’ll need to take care of your leather products for years to come.

Read on for our top leather cleaning tips.

Don’t Go DIY on Your Leather Cleaning Products

The first thing you need to know is that leather requires leather cleaning products. Any DIY remedies that involve vinegar, cream of tartar, or baking soda are a big no-no. DIY cleaners work great for a lot of textiles and materials, but leather isn’t one of them.

Treat Leather Stains ASAP

So you’ve spilled some soda on your leather cell phone holster or gotten a bit of mud on your leather boots. It’s time to grab a dry cloth and a damp cloth (dampened with warm water or leather cleaner) and get to work.

Start by blotting as much of the stain from the leather using your dry cloth. Then, dab the area with your wet cloth. Never try to remove a stain by rubbing either cloth on the leather.

Moisturize After Cleaning

After you’ve cleaned your leather products, it’s time to moisturize. Rub leather conditioner (again, opt for a storebought product rather than a DIY mixture) into the leather in small circles using a brush, sponge, or cloth. This method is how to keep leather from cracking after getting wet or being dampened.

Know When to Ask For Professional Help

Sometimes, leather becomes stained or dirtied to a degree that we can’t clean it on our own. How can you recognize the signs that you’re going to need professional help and where can you take your leather for professional cleaning?

Stains caused by ink or grease are two good examples of when you’ll need professional help. If the stain is deep and won’t come out with a typical spot cleaning, the best way to clean leather is to take it to the dry-cleaners.

Learn How to Clean Leather For Longer-Lasting Products

Leather is one of the most durable and classic materials for accessories. Investing in high-quality leather accessories is a great first step toward building a long-lasting wardrobe, but the key is knowing how to take care of leather so that it remains in great condition. Use this guide on how to clean leather to get the most out of all your leather accessories.

Looking for more fashion guides? Take a look at our fashion content to start building the most stylish wardrobe for you.