Leather ages well when you treat it gently. A few habits are enough.
Every day
- Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth.
- If it gets wet, blot it and let it dry on its own, away from a heater or hair dryer.
- Keep it out of long direct sun and out of a hot car. Heat dries leather and makes it stiff.
- Use a leather conditioner sparingly, once or twice a year, on wallets, holsters and straps. Test it on a hidden spot first.
Watch straps and bands
Take the strap off before you swim or shower, and let it dry after sweat. If you wear one every day, rotate between two.
Wallets and card holders
Do not overfill them. A stuffed wallet loses its shape and stretches at the seams.
Key fob covers
Fit the cover over the key gently and do not force the buttons. Keep your keys in a pocket without sharp objects.
Patina and color change
Natural leather darkens and softens with use. Light colors show marks sooner, and some colors, especially light tan and white, can pick up dye from dark denim. That is normal character, not a defect.
Storage
Store it somewhere dry, not in a plastic bag, and away from direct sun.