HOW TO CLEAN LEATHER

How To Clean Leather

By Eric Pratt Leather is a durable, sophisticated material for clothing and other everyday items. Nothing envelopes your body and protects it from the elements like a long leather jacket. With a little proper know-how, you can ensure that your precious leather items stay beautiful and clean for years to come. Knowing how to properly clean leather is important so that you don't damage or discolor it and can be broken down into two broad categories. Depending on which type of item you're dealing with, you'll want to approach this cleaning task in different ways. The first category is called finished leather. Items such as apparel, luggage and briefcases are often coated and smooth and should be cleaned differently from unfinished leather items. To clean finished items, apply just a dab of a mild, moisturizing soap to a damp cloth. Make sure the cloth is not too wet and massage the cloth so that a light lather is formed. Then, rub the leather with the cloth making sure to not squeeze any excess water from the cloth. Now use another lightly damp, clean cloth to wipe the lather away from the leather item. Never rinse leather with water to clean it. Always use a damp cloth instead. After removing the lather, dry the leather with a clean, dry towel or cloth. Finally, treat it with a leather conditioner after it has completely dried. If you need to clean something like a baseball glove, work boots or other, unfinished leather item, you'll need to approach the task a little differently. First, use a damp cloth to rub saddle soap into the leather. Then, just as before, use another clean, damp cloth to wipe the lather away. Afterward, use a leather preservative such as mink oil to keep it pliable and to keep it from cracking when used or worn. Never use leather preservatives on finished leather unless the label specifically suggests doing so. As when cleaning almost anything, it is always best to test in an inconspicuous area first and watch for any discoloration or damage. Leather is an investment that will bring you years of use and enjoyment when properly taken care of. Follow theses tips and cleaning instructions and everyone will always think your coats, gloves and other items are brand new. Eric Pratt has been involved with leather goods for a few years now and operates a website targeted to helping women find the perfect leather apparel. To read more free tips for leather care or to browse his below retail selection of coats, gloves, purses and more, check out his site here: Womens Leather Jackets. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Pratt