Taking Care of Your Leather in Winter Months

The winter months can be rough on your leather items, but there are several things you can do to prevent damage and keep your shoes in good shape. By following these tips, you’ll be able to extend the life of your favorite leather pieces and save money in the long run.

Keep Leather Away from Cold Areas

You should always store your leather in a warm place. Typically unheated areas include the attic or basement. Leather is particularly vulnerable to moisture and condensation, so it’s best not to use your leather in the rain or snow.

If you’re storing your leather over the winter months, ensure that you keep it out of direct sunlight, even if this means moving it into a closet or other dark place with no heat source nearby.

Avoid Using Plastic to Cover Leather Items

Plastic can trap moisture, which can cause mold to form. If you have leather pieces you love and want to protect from the cold, it’s better to put them in a bag or cover them with a cloth such as the dustbag that comes with all Latico leather goods instead of plastic.

Clean Your Leather Pieces Correctly

Use a Windex-type alcohol- and ammonia-free cleaner to clean off stains and debris. Don’t use paper towels or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the leather’s finish. To clean them, we recommend using saddle soap—just rub it into any dirty spots with a lint-free cloth until all stains are gone.

Also, avoid waxes or shoe creams when cleaning your leather items. Waxes and shoe creams are not recommended for cleaning leather as they can clog pores in the material, which can cause cracking or peeling over time.

To keep your leather products looking good as new, you should apply a good conditioner or protector every few months. This will prevent cracking and fading, slow down the aging process, and help keep dirt from getting stuck in the pores of your leather. You can find these products at most major department stores or purchase them online.

Take Care Of Your Leather Year-Round

If you take good care of your leather, it is often possible to get repairs done at an affordable price rather than replacing it. These tips protect your leather during winter, but they should be considered every season. 

– Geraldine Orentas is a writer in partnership with Marv Golden Pilot Supplies.