A complete guide from the experts at The Leather Care Co.
Leather is more than just a material—it’s an emotion. Whether it’s your first designer handbag, a cherished heirloom jacket, or those everyday formal shoes, leather pieces have a way of aging beautifully—if cared for properly.
Unfortunately, most damage we see at The Leather Care Co. is preventable. From cracked finishes to moldy interiors, the culprits are often DIY cleaning efforts gone wrong. In a climate like India’s—where heat, humidity, and pollution collide—leather needs special attention.
If you’re guilty of a few well-meaning but misguided attempts to clean your leather, don’t worry. You’re not alone—and we’re here to help.
Here are seven of the most common mistakes people make while cleaning leather—and the simple swaps you can make to extend the life of your beloved pieces.
1. Using Harsh Household Cleaners
The Mistake:
Thinking that multipurpose cleaners or even “gentle” baby wipes are safe for leather.
Why It’s Harmful:
Most off-the-shelf cleaning products are not pH balanced for leather. They contain alcohol, ammonia, or other chemicals that strip leather of its natural oils, leaving it dull, brittle, or prone to surface cracking.
The Fix:
Use leather-specific cleaning products that are designed to preserve the material’s integrity. At The Leather Care Co., we recommend our specially formulated Gentle Leather Cleanser—free from alcohols and harsh additives, but strong enough to remove grime.
Pro Tip: Always spot-test any new product on an inconspicuous area before applying to the entire item.
2. Over-Wetting the Leather
The Mistake:
Soaking leather in water or using overly damp cloths, especially when trying to remove stains quickly.
Why It’s Harmful:
Leather is naturally porous, meaning it absorbs moisture. Over-wetting can lead to water stains, warping, and mold growth, especially during India’s monsoon months when humidity is already high.
The Fix:
Use a slightly damp cloth and gently wipe in circular motions. For deeper cleaning, consider our professional cleaning services—we use minimal moisture with maximum care.
3. Skipping the Conditioning Step
The Mistake:
Cleaning the leather and calling it a day, forgetting to restore its lost moisture.
Why It’s Harmful:
Just like skin, leather needs regular hydration. Without it, your leather will start to feel stiff, lose its sheen, and develop cracks.
The Fix:
After every cleaning session, apply a high-quality leather conditioner. Our Hydrating Leather Balm nourishes, softens, and creates a protective barrier to guard against environmental wear and tear.
Condition once a month, or more frequently for pieces exposed to sun, sweat, or rain.
4. Drying Leather Under Direct Heat
The Mistake:
Using hair dryers, heaters, or placing wet leather items under the sun to speed up the drying process.
Why It’s Harmful:
Heat causes the leather to lose elasticity and moisture, often resulting in shrinkage, stiffness, or discoloration. Sunlight can also fade dye or unevenly tan the surface.
The Fix:
Let your items air dry naturally, away from direct heat and sunlight. Stuff shoes or bags with newspaper to retain shape and absorb moisture.
5. Ignoring the Interior of the Leather Item
The Mistake:
Focusing solely on the leather exterior and forgetting about the fabric or suede interior.
Why It’s Harmful:
Sweat, spills, and dust accumulate inside over time, often leading to odours, mildew, or internal staining that can seep outward.
The Fix:
Regularly clean interiors with a mild fabric-safe cleaner. Use moisture absorbers (like silica gel or cedar balls) inside your bags and shoes—especially important during the rainy season to prevent mold.
Bonus: Use breathable dust bags and store items with open zippers to promote airflow.
6. Relying on Internet DIYs Without Testing First
The Mistake:
Trying every viral hack—like applying vinegar, toothpaste, or baking soda—without understanding their impact on leather.
Why It’s Harmful:
While these may work on tiles or jeans, such abrasive or acidic products can permanently stain or erode leather.
The Fix:
Always test in a hidden spot before applying anything. Or better, when in doubt, send your leather item to professionals who understand the chemistry behind each treatment. Our team at The Leather Care Co. uses expert-grade materials tailored for different types of leather—from smooth calfskin to delicate lambskin.
7. Waiting Until It’s Too Late
The Mistake:
Thinking leather is “tough” and doesn’t need regular care. Only acting once the damage becomes visible.
Why It’s Harmful:
By the time you notice flaking, cracking, or deep discoloration, it’s already late in the degradation process. Preventive maintenance is always more effective (and cost-efficient) than restoration.
The Fix:
Build a simple monthly care routine: wipe off dust, condition the surface, air the interior, and rotate use to avoid over-stressing one item.
At The Leather Care Co., we recommend a full professional clean and nourish at least once a year—more if the item is used frequently or during monsoon season.
Monsoon Season Bonus: How to Store Leather in Humid Months
India’s monsoon brings high humidity, accidental water splashes, and a risk of fungal growth—all nightmares for leather owners.
What Not to Do:
- Don’t store leather in plastic.
- Don’t pack items tightly without air circulation.
- Don’t ignore white patches—they’re early signs of mold.
What to Do Instead:
- Store in cotton or muslin dust bags.
- Place silica gel packets or activated charcoal inside.
- Keep items in a cool, dry place and inspect them regularly.
Conclusion: Good Leather Deserves Great Care
Caring for leather isn’t about pampering—it’s about preserving. Every leather item has a story. Whether it’s a birthday gift, a vintage treasure, or a symbol of your success, it deserves the right care.
With the right tools, a little knowledge, and help from the professionals at The Leather Care Co., your leather pieces can last a lifetime—and beyond.
Call to Action
Need help rescuing a leather item?
Noticed stains or dryness on your favourite bag or shoes?
Curious about how to clean exotic or vintage leather?
Let The Leather Care Co. help. Our eco-conscious, professional leather care services include cleaning, restoration, colour correction, and preservation—all with expert attention and deep respect for your items.
Book a FREE pick-up & assessment now at www.theleathercareco.com
Or message us on Instagram @theleathercareco for quick advice and tips!