Care and maintenance
In the event that your leather goods are exposed to rain, ensure that you wipe the product as quickly as possible to avoid the water absorbing into and possibly staining the leather. It is important to remember that leather isn’t waterproof. The addition of certain waxes, oils or coatings can increase the water resistance of the leather. There are many high quality brands available, and we tend to use the products produced by SAPHIR.
Our leather products are lifelong companions and will change over time with use, adding to their character – which is the beauty of high-quality vegetable-tanned and chrome-tanned leather.
Cleaning
If your leather good becomes dirty or soiled, first wipe down the stained area with a clean cotton or microfiber cloth dampened with a small amount of water. Allow the area to then dry fully. If the stain persists, you can apply a small amount of a quality leather cleaning solution, following all listed instructions. Below are more detailed instructions for the various types of leathers used. If there are any questions, please don’t hesitate to CONTACT US.
Buttero vegetable-tanned bovine hide
To care for Buttero leather, dust it regularly with a soft, dry cloth to maintain its natural sheen to allow it to develop a rich patina over time. For dryness, apply a very small amount of colorless leather balm or conditioner in a circular motion, let dry for about 15 minutes, then buff it off with a clean cloth. Protect the leather from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, water, and heat.
- Dusting: Use a dry, soft cloth to gently wipe the surface and remove dust. This also helps to buff light scratches and maintain its natural luster.
- Handling: When handling, use clean hands to prevent stains, as the oils from your hands can stain the leather over time.
- Minor scratches: Light scratches can often be buffed out with a microfiber cloth.
- Conditioning: Buttero is an oily leather and doesn’t typically need frequent conditioning. Wait at least 2–3 months before considering conditioning, and only if the leather feels dry.
- Application: If needed, apply a small amount of colorless leather balm or conditioner to a cloth, rub it in well in a circular motion, and then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
- Waterproofing: For added protection, you can lightly apply a waterproof spray from a distance, then wipe off any excess with a soft cloth.
- Water and moisture: Avoid getting the leather wet. If it does get wet, allow it to dry naturally away from direct heat sources.
- Sun and heat: Do not expose the leather to direct sunlight or heat sources for prolonged periods, as this can damage it.
- Over-conditioning: Avoid applying too much conditioner, which can cause the leather to feel greasy.
- Harsh cleaners: Do not use harsh chemicals for cleaning. For tougher spots, use a leather cleaner sparingly or a leather eraser, being careful not to rub too hard and cause discoloration.
Wickett and Craig vegetable-tanned straps
To care for Wickett and Craig English bridle or traditional harness leather, first clean it with a damp cloth and avoid harsh soaps or over-saturation. Then, regularly apply a light coat of a quality leather conditioner or balm, allowing it to absorb for about 15 minutes before wiping off excess. For storage, keep the item in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or damp surfaces.
- Remove dirt: Use a soft-bristle brush to remove loose dirt, paying attention to any crevices.
- Wipe gently: Dampen a cloth with water to wipe down the leather. Avoid soaking it.
- Use mild soap: For stains, use a leather cleaner or saddle soap, but only a small amount, and be sure to wipe it off completely afterward with a clean, damp cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use ammonia, alcohol-based cleaners, or household products that can strip the natural oils from the leather.
- Apply sparingly: Use a high-quality leather balm or conditioner. Apply a light coat and spread it evenly.
- Absorb: Let the conditioner absorb overnight if possible.
- Wipe excess: After it has absorbed, wipe off excess product to prevent grease buildup, which weakens stitching over time.
- Don’t over-condition: Over-oiling can damage the leather fibers.
- Cool and dry: Store the item in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid dampness: Do not store it above a damp surface, as this can lead to mold and rot.
- Use a cover: If storing for a long time, use a breathable bag or cover to protect from dust.
RMG Pomari Swift Calfskin
To care for Pomari Swift leather, use a soft dry microfiber cloth for daily dusting and gentle cleaning. For minor scratches, lightly massage the area with your finger or the cloth. Protect the leather from water, oil, and prolonged exposure to direct sun and heat. Store it in its protective dust cover when not in use.
- Wipe regularly: Use a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth to gently wipe the surface and remove dust or light oil.
- Address scratches: To help minimize small scratches, gently rub the spot with your finger or a soft cloth.
- Handle hardware: Use a soft brush to clean the hardware, being careful not to scratch the leather.
- Avoid water: If the leather gets wet, immediately wipe it with a soft, dry cloth to prevent stains and blisters.
- Conditioning: If needed, use a small amount of a specialized, colorless leather cream to moisturize the leather, applying it in a circular motion with a cloth and then wiping off any excess.
- Shield from the elements: Keep it away from intense light and heat, which can alter the color. Avoid exposure to humidity and dryness.
- Prevent stains: Be mindful of products like ink, makeup, or perfume, which can leave marks. Dark, raw textiles can also transfer color onto lighter leather.
- Avoid overloading: Do not overstuff the good, as this can stretch the leather and affect its shape.
- Store properly: When not in use, store the item in its dust cover or original box.
- Maintain shape: Consider lining the good with tissue paper after emptying it to help it retain its shape
Alran Sully Goatskin
To care for Alran Sully goatskin, dust it regularly with a soft, dry cloth and use a specialized leather cleaner for spot cleaning. Avoid using soap, detergents, or harsh chemicals. When storing, place it in a soft pouch and stuff it with paper to maintain its shape, and keep it away from direct sunlight and high heat.
- Wipe with a soft, dry, 100% cotton cloth for daily cleaning.
- Regularly brush the leather with a soft brush to remove dirt and dust.
- For spot cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth, but avoid harsh chemicals or detergents.
- If needed, use a small amount of a specialized, colorless leather cream to moisturize the leather, applying it in a circular motion with a cloth and then wiping off any excess.
- Always test any cleaning or conditioning product on an inconspicuous area first.
- Store Alran Sully leather items in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
- When storing for a long time, stuff the item with paper to help it keep its shape and prevent wrinkles.
- Keep metal parts away from the leather by wrapping them carefully to avoid scratches or marks.
- Do not leave the leather in damp or humid areas, as this can cause damage.
- Protect the leather from high temperatures, direct sunlight, and artificial heat sources like irons or hair dryers.
- Do not use soap or laundry detergents.
- Do not use products that contain petroleum or mineral oil.
- Avoid storing items under heavy objects.
Italian Calf Suede
- Brush regularly: Use a suede brush to lightly brush the item after each use to remove dust and prevent dirt buildup.
- Apply protector spray: A suede protector spray will help repel water and stains. Reapply it periodically, especially for items like shoes.
- Store properly: Store suede in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause discoloration. Use padded hangers for jackets to prevent creases.
- For dry dirt and marks: Use a suede eraser or a pencil eraser to gently rub out light marks and stains.
- For liquid or fresh stains: Blot the spill immediately with a clean cloth to absorb as much as possible. Do not rub it in.
- For tough stains: Dab a small amount of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol onto a clean cloth and gently rub the stain in a circular motion. Allow it to dry naturally.
- For oil stains: Sprinkle cornstarch on the stain, let it sit for several hours or overnight to absorb the oil, and then brush it off.
- After cleaning: Once the item is dry, use a suede brush to restore the nap and even out the texture.
Conditioning
Every six to twelve months, apply a clear, high-quality leather conditioner or cream to your leather, as this nourishes the leather and extends its life. Test a discreet portion of your leather good if you are not familiar with the effect the conditioner may have on the leather, as some conditioners may darken the leather. Please CONTACT US for any recommendations. There are many high-quality products available, and we generally use those produced by SAPHIR.
Storage
- Do not leave your goods exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time, as light radiation can discolor or mar the leather.
- When not in regular use, we suggest storing your leather in a cool, dry place in a dust case made from a breathable, organic material like cotton, like the one that was supplied when you originally purchased the good from us.
- Before placing your leather good into deep storage for protracted disuse, consider first conditioning the leather to maintain its supple texture and rich appearance
Minor scuffs
Occasionally rub the exterior of your leather good with a clean cloth. Most minor bumps and scratches will be subsumed into the texture of the leather. If your leather good is ever nicked or damaged, apply a colored polish that matches your belt color over the damage area. Immediately wipe away any excess, and then polish the area with a cotton cloth.
Repairs and restoration
We would love to see the life of your leather good extended, even if it wasn’t originally purchased from us. As such, we are able to undertake certain repairs and restoration of your leather good. Please CONTACT US to determine the possibility, timing and charges.