Leather Care Guide

Leather is a natural material that can develop character and a beautiful patina with use. With the right care, your leather bag or accessory can continue to look its best for years to come.

This guide explains how to clean, protect and store genuine leather, as well as what to do if your leather gets wet.

How do you care for genuine leather?

Regular, gentle care is usually all that is needed to keep leather looking its best.

For everyday leather care:

• Keep leather away from prolonged direct sunlight, which may cause fading.
• Avoid excessive heat and moisture.
• Store leather goods in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid overfilling leather bags or stretching them beyond their intended capacity.
• Gently remove surface dust and dirt with a clean, soft cloth.

As leather is a natural material, its appearance may gradually change with use and age.

How do you clean a leather bag?

For everyday cleaning, gently wipe your leather bag with a clean, soft, dry cloth to remove surface dust and dirt.

If deeper cleaning is required, use a specialist leather cleaner suitable for the particular type and finish of leather. Always follow the product instructions and test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Avoid household cleaning products, harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these may damage or discolour the leather.

Should you condition leather?

Some types of leather can benefit from occasional conditioning to help maintain their suppleness and prevent them from becoming dry.

Choose a leather conditioner that is suitable for the type of leather you are treating and always test it on a discreet area first. Different leather finishes can have different care requirements, so avoid applying conditioners or treatments unless they are suitable for your particular item.

What should you do if leather gets wet?

Genuine leather is not waterproof, so it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to rain and water.

If your leather bag or accessory gets wet:

1. Gently blot away excess moisture with a clean, absorbent cloth.
2. Allow the leather to dry naturally at room temperature.
3. Keep it away from direct heat while drying.
4. Do not use a radiator, hairdryer or other heat source to speed up the drying process.

Allow the item to dry completely before storing or using it again.

How should you store a leather bag?

Store your leather bag in a cool, dry place away from prolonged direct sunlight and sources of heat.

Avoid crushing or tightly folding the bag during storage, as this may affect its shape. Make sure the leather is completely dry before putting it away.

Does genuine leather change over time?

Yes. Genuine leather is a natural material, so subtle variations in grain, texture, colour and markings are normal.

With handling and use, leather may also soften and develop a patina. These natural changes give each leather piece its own individual character.

Caring for your McIntosh Leathers piece

Every leather deserves thoughtful care. A little regular attention, careful storage and appropriate cleaning can help preserve the appearance and character of your McIntosh Leathers bag or accessory for years to come.

If you are unsure how to care for a particular McIntosh Leathers product, please contact us before applying a cleaner, conditioner or other leather treatment.