Leather Care

We use tanned, dyed leathers that showcase the natural features and beauty of the material. Over the course of its life, your leather will develop a patina – meaning it will darken and develop a sheen that's specific to you and how you've used it.

This will sound obvious, but the best way to care for your leather is to take very good care of it:

• Avoid exposure to water
• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat
• Limit exposure to other dyed goods – such as raw denim
• Limit exposure to oils and lotions – such as sunscreen

We hope you'll embrace the fact that your leather is going to patina! Use leather products only as needed, since they typically darken the leather. In general:
Conditioners soften stiff/dehydrated leather
Saddle soap clean soiled leather
Waxes and silicone increase water resistance

For issues beyond normal wear and tear over time, here are some leather care products that come highly recommended: 
Saphir Super Invulner Spray to protect and waterproof 
Bickmore LP or Obenauf's LP for dry or scratched leather
Fiebing's Saddle Soap for dirty or soiled leather

Usually it's enough to simply remove dirt with a lightly damp cloth using only gentle strokes (no rubbing). For stubborn stains, we recommend using a saddle soap with a toothbrush or other soft bristle brush. Because most treatments affect the color and look of the leather, always test an inconspicuous area first. And instead of spot-treating, be ready to treat the entire surface of the leather.

1. Collect some soap on the damp brush. Here we're using Fiebing's in gold for a richer conditioned look, but many saddle soaps are available in "white" or clear to have a less visible affect on the leather color. 
   
   
   
2. For a consistent look once treatment is finished, lightly scrub the entire visible surface in a circular pattern creating a lather, paying a bit more attention to soiled areas:
   
   
   
3. When finished, wipe clean with a dry lint-free cloth – DO NOT RINSE because adding excess water can darken and stiffen the leather. If stains remain, rinse your brush and repeat the cleaning.
   
   
   
4. Let dry at room temperature and away from direct sun. Because saddle soap requires very little water to use, your wallet should be ready to use within 20-30 minutes. If you'd like, buff with a soft cloth to impart a soft sheen. Though you shouldn't see a dramatic color difference after using Saddle Soap, it will appear more rich and have a renewed softness. 
   
   

For further finishing and protection, you can use a natural-ingredient leather wax or oil (such as mink or neatsfoot). Most oils provide rich conditioning, while treatments high in wax or silicone add water-repellant properties – however, both may significantly darken your leather. Test a small, hidden area first, and consider treating the entire surface of the leather for a consistent finish.