How to Care for Your Leather Goods Like a Pro
If you made it through my last post—props to you. It was a bit of a beast. This one should be much more laid-back and easy to digest, I promise. Today, we’re talking leather care, specifically for the oil-tanned leather we use here at Middleyak. This stuff is durable, has serious character, and is super easy to maintain. But just like anything worth keeping, it still needs a little love.
Why Oil-Tanned Leather Rocks
So, why do we use oil-tanned leather for almost all of our products? Well, it’s naturally water-resistant—meaning if you get caught in a rainstorm, your bag will be fine. Just wipe it down and let it air dry. That said, don’t go throwing it in a pool or anything crazy. Water-resistant, yes. Waterproof, no.
The Basics of Leather Care
Here’s the good news: taking care of your leather goods isn’t complicated. You don’t need a ton of fancy products or a lot of time. Just follow these simple steps:
Dust it off regularly: Use a soft brush or cloth to brush off dust or dirt. Keeping the surface clean prevents grime from settling in.
Spot clean when needed: A bit of water on a cloth will handle small spots. No need to go overboard with harsh cleaners.
Condition it: This is a biggie. You’ll want to condition your leather at least twice a year, depending on how much use it’s getting. If you notice light spots or if it starts feeling stiff, it’s begging for a condition.
My Favorite Conditioners
I’ve tried a lot of different conditioners over the years, but I keep coming back to Smith’s Leather Balm. It’s got a simple ingredient list, and it just works—plus, it doesn’t hurt that I now stock it! That said, Skidmore’s Leather Cream is also a solid option.
Now, before you go all-in on slathering your bag with conditioner, there’s something you should know. Some conditioners can slightly darken leather, so test it on a small, hidden area first. Once you’re good to go, here’s how to do it:
Apply the conditioner: Use a soft cloth and rub it in evenly. No need to glob it on—just enough to cover the surface.
Let it dry: Give the conditioner time to soak in.
Buff it out: Once it’s dry, take a clean cloth and buff it. Your leather won’t shine like a brand-new car, but it’ll look refreshed and feel a lot softer.
Leather Don’ts (a.k.a. Things to Avoid)
Too much sun: Long exposure to sunlight can dry out leather fast. If you live somewhere with brutal summers, try to keep your bag out of the direct sun for extended periods.
Salt and water: These can also dry out the leather, which means you’ll be conditioning more often.
Special Cases (Because Not All Leather is Created Equal)
Nubuck and Suede: These beauties can’t be treated with regular conditioners. They need special products, and a good brushing will keep them looking their best.
Metallic and Patent Leather: If your leather has a shiny or metallic finish, skip the conditioner. It won’t absorb, and you could end up ruining the finish.
Painted Leather: Got one of our custom tooled and painted pieces? Be careful! Only condition the unpainted areas. The paint forms a barrier, so conditioner won’t soak in—and you could damage that beautiful artwork.
Keep It Simple, Keep It Real
Leather doesn’t need a whole lot to stay looking great. A little TLC a few times a year will go a long way. Dust it off, spot clean when necessary, and give it a nice condition every once in a while. With just a bit of effort, your bag will develop that gorgeous patina we all love.
And don’t forget—I’ve got Smith’s Leather Balm in stock if you need it. If you ever have any questions about caring for your Middleyak gear, just reach out! We’re all in this together.
Until next time,
Marissa
