how to care for leather & suede
tips to keep your leather and suede pieces looking great
some wardrobe staples just get better with age, and anything leather and suede is at the top of that list. from timeless, relaxed jackets to luxe pants with just the right amount of stretch, wear-everywhere boots, or that bag you never leave home without, leather and suede add instant richness and dimension to any outfit. with the right care, they’ll age beautifully, picking up patina along the way. here’s how to keep them looking incredible season after season.
cleaning and conditioning tips
for leather: wipe leather with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust and dirt. avoid water on untreated leather, as it can cause spots. for more delicate leathers like lambskin, apply a leather conditioner every few months to keep it soft and prevent cracking. when using a new product, always test it on a hidden spot first to make sure it doesn’t alter the color or texture.
for suede: use a natural or silicone-bristled suede brush to gently lift dirt and revive the soft texture, brushing in the direction of the nap. for small stains, try a suede eraser or a dab of white vinegar—just remember to test it first in a discreet area.
protecting leather & suede from water and stains
leather protection: leather is durable but can be sensitive to moisture. apply a water- and stain-repellent spray specifically made for leather to keep it protected. aim for an even coat, and reapply once a year to maintain the barrier. (when you buy leather shoes or bags at scarpa, we’re happy to apply this for you!) if your leather does get wet, let it dry naturally, away from heat sources, which can cause cracking.
suede protection: suede is more delicate, so a suede-safe spray is essential to create a barrier against moisture and dirt. reapply yearly to keep it protected. reserve suede pieces for dry days when you can, and keep them away from darker fabrics, oils, makeup, and food to avoid stains that are harder to remove.
storing leather & suede properly
general storage tips: for both leather and suede, keep lighter-colored items separate from darker ones to prevent dye transfer. avoid plastic storage, as these materials need to breathe.
leather storage: store leather jackets and pants on padded hangers to help maintain their shape and avoid creasing. keep leather items in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading. for bags and boots, use dust bags and gentle stuffing to preserve their shape without stretching.
suede storage: store suede items in breathable fabric bags to allow airflow and avoid moisture buildup. if you’re storing suede long-term, choose a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. breathable covers help prevent dust and mold.
fixing stains and scuffs
on leather: for small scratches, apply a bit of leather conditioner and rub gently with a soft cloth. for deeper scuffs, consider seeing a leather care professional. avoid using harsh chemicals that can strip away the leather’s natural oils. if you’re dealing with a stubborn stain, try a leather cleaner made for your specific leather type.
on suede: for wet stains, let suede air dry naturally, away from direct heat. avoid rubbing the stain while wet to prevent further damage. use a suede eraser or brush for minor marks. for significant stains, consult a professional suede cleaner.
revitalizing well-worn leather & suede
if you have any old favorites in need of some tlc, consider a professional cleaning service. if you’d like specific recommendations, reach out, and we can point you in the right direction.
