Leather & Suede Care

Leather & Suede Care Guide: 

Take Care of Your Leather.  Make It Last!

Quality leather is made to be used. With a little regular care, your leather goods can develop a beautiful patina while staying soft, strong, and looking their best.

Different types of leather require different care. Smooth leather, suede, and nubuck should not all be treated the same way.

When in doubt, always test a care product on a small, hidden area first.

Smooth Leather Care: For smooth or finished leather, regular cleaning and conditioning help remove dirt and replenish the leather's natural feel.

• Remove Dirt & Dust
  Use a soft, clean cloth or soft leather brush to remove surface dirt and dust.
  Avoid soaking the leather.
  
• Clean Gently
  If additional cleaning is needed, use a leather cleaner specifically formulated for the type of leather you're treating.
  Apply a small amount to a cloth rather than saturating the leather.
  
• Condition
  Once the leather is clean and dry, apply a quality leather conditioner sparingly.
  Work the conditioner evenly into the leather and allow it to absorb. Remove any excess with a clean cloth.
  Less is usually more. Over-conditioning can leave leather greasy or overly soft.
  
• Protect
  Depending on the type of leather, a suitable leather protectant can provide additional protection against moisture and everyday wear.
  Always make sure the product is appropriate for your particular leather finish.

Suede & Nubuck Care:  Suede and nubuck have a soft, brushed surface called the nap. Because the surface fibers are exposed, they require special care.

Do not treat suede or nubuck like smooth leather.

Avoid ordinary leather creams, waxes, and shoe polishes unless the manufacturer specifically states that they are suitable for suede or nubuck.

• Brush First
  Use a suede or nubuck brush to gently remove loose dirt and dust.
  Brush lightly and follow the direction of the nap. Regular brushing helps keep the surface looking fresh.
  
• Treat Small Spots Carefully
  For light marks, a suede eraser or a product specifically designed for suede and nubuck may help.
  Do not aggressively scrub the surface. Excessive friction can damage or flatten the nap.
  
• For Water or Liquid Spills
  If suede or nubuck gets wet, gently blot the moisture with a clean, dry cloth.
  Do not rub the wet area.
  Allow the item to dry naturally at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight. Once completely dry, gently brush the nap back into place.
  
• Protect Against Future Moisture
  A water- and stain-repellent product specifically formulated for suede or nubuck can provide additional protection.
  Always test the product on a hidden area first. Some protectants and conditioners can temporarily or permanently change the color or appearance of suede and nubuck.
  

What NOT To Do!

• Don't soak leather.
  Excessive moisture can affect the appearance and feel of leather, particularly porous suede and nubuck.
  
• Don't use heat to dry leather.
  Avoid hair dryers, radiators, heaters, fireplaces, and other direct heat sources. Let leather dry naturally.
  
• Don't use regular shoe polish on suede.
  Traditional creams, waxes, and polishes can change the texture and appearance of suede and nubuck.
  
• Don't aggressively scrub.
  Hard brushing or scrubbing can damage the surface fibers and alter the appearance of the leather.
  
• Don't skip the test patch.
  Before applying any cleaner, conditioner, or protectant, test it on a small, inconspicuous area.

Storing Your Leather
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning.
Keep leather goods:
In a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
Away from prolonged direct sunlight
Away from excessive heat and humidity
Protected from dust when appropriate
Properly supported so they don't lose their shape
For bags and other structured leather goods, use clean tissue or suitable stuffing to help maintain their shape. A breathable cotton storage bag can also help protect the surface.

A Simple Care Routine
Every Use, Brush or wipe away surface dirt.
Every Few Weeks, Inspect for dirt, scuffs, dryness, or stains.
When Needed, Clean with a product designed specifically for your leather type.
After Cleaning, Condition smooth leather when appropriate and restore the nap on suede or nubuck with a gentle brush.

Before Storage
Make sure the leather is completely dry and store it in a cool, dry location.

Not Sure What Kind of Leather You Have?  That's okay.
If you're unsure whether your item is smooth leather, suede, nubuck, or another finish, don't experiment with cleaners or conditioners.

Check the product information or contact FL Crooks before applying a treatment.
We're happy to help you determine the appropriate care for your leather.

When Professional Cleaning Is the Better Choice
Some stains, discoloration, grease marks, water damage, and heavily soiled leather are best handled by a professional leather cleaner.

If you're dealing with an expensive, vintage, delicate, or sentimental item, professional cleaning may be the safest option. Manufacturers and leather-care specialists commonly recommend professional treatment for difficult stains and delicate suede products.

When in doubt, stop before applying another product.

A little caution can prevent a small stain from becoming permanent damage.

FL Crooks Tip:
The best leather-care routine is simple: clean gently, condition appropriately, protect when needed, and don't overdo it.
Treat your leather well and it can become one of those things that looks even better with age.