Looking After Leather

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With a little care, you can keep leather clothing looking- Plastic bags tend to dry out or discolor leather. Use a
its best for years, according to an expert on leatercotton garment bag for off-season storage, or hang
from The Olde Hide House in Acton, Ontario.coats as usual, draping a tea-towel over the shoulders
- Leather naturally repels water but, for additonalto deter dust.
protection, look for an environmentally friendly repellent- Avoid pressure-sensitive labels (the stick-on type)as
product to help prevent absorption of water and bodythe gummy residue left behind by these labels can
oils. It's best to avoid silicone-based repellents whichstain or ruin the finish on leather.
retard leather's ability to "breathe."- Professional cleaning is best for stain removal. Some
- Let wet leather garments dry in well-ventilated areas,commercial stain removers can be absorbed and
away from heat. The leather may stiffen slightly butleave a mar. Home remedies include gently rubbing at
should soften again after wearing.minor stains with a pencil eraser or rubbing alcohol
- Hang leather coats and jackets on thick or padded(these methods work only on finished leather;; test on
hangers to keep the shoulders in shape. Don't loadthe inside facing first, to be sure the leather will not be
pockets with heavy or bulky items, which could tearmarred).