How to Protect Your Leather Products in the Winter Season

Introduction on How to Protect Your Leather Products

Leather is a material that impresses not only for its elegance and strength but also for its longevity, provided it is properly cared for. In winter, when cold, humidity and road salt put stress on our leather products, careful maintenance is essential. Winter is a particular challenge for leather products. Cold temperatures and humidity can affect the material and alter its quality.

In particular, the combination of humidity, cold and road salt can be stressful on leather. Salt used on roads and sidewalks to protect against ice and snow can dry out leather and cause cracking. Salt can also leave unsightly stains that can detract from the aesthetics of leather.

Therefore, proper care and protection of leather during the winter is essential to maintaining the quality and lasting beauty of your leather products. In this blog, we will explore how to optimally care for and protect your leather items to protect them from the challenges of winter.

What are the Types of Leather

Leather comes in many different types, each with its own characteristics. The most common types are:

1. Full-grain leather:

Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather, known for its durability and natural appearance. It retains the entire grain, making it resistant to wear and tear.

2. Top Grain leather:

Top Grain leather is lightly treated to remove imperfections but is still of high quality and is often used in high-end leather goods.

3. Genuine Leather:

Although genuine leather may seem high-end, it is the lowest grade of genuine leather. It is made from layers of lower-quality leather glued together and is less durable than full-grain or premium leather.

4. Corrected Leather:

Corrected leather is also known as genuine leather and is created by treating the skin with chemicals and sanding or buffing it to give it a smooth, even texture. It also goes through a dyeing process and is stamped or embossed to give it the desired final texture.

5. Split Leather:

Split leather is made from the bottom layer of the hide. During the leather manufacturing process, the tanned hide is separated and the top layer is used to make full-grain leather and the bottom layer is used to make split leather.

This layer of leather is less durable and thinner, which is why split leather is much more affordable and cheaper.

6. Bonded Leather:

Bonded leather is made from excess leather by cutting up and glueing together scrap leather with polyurethane or latex onto a fiberboard. Bonded leather is often dyed and embossed to create the desired texture. The percentage of original grain in bonded leather is quite low and therefore this type of leather is less durable and is considered the lowest quality leather.

7. Faux leather:

Faux leather is a type of artificial leather that does not contain animal skin. It is usually made from synthetic materials such as polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is a vegan leather alternative to genuine leather and is designed to mimic the appearance of genuine leather.

Faux leather is versatile and can be used in the production of a variety of products including clothing, leather shoes, furniture, fashion accessories, and more. 

Characteristics of Leather

1. Water-Resistant:

Leather can be designed to be water absorbent, water resistant, or  completely waterproof. Most leathers produced for the footwear, handbag, furniture, and leather goods industries are water resistant to a degree  that allows the leather to become wet while retaining its water-repellent properties and shape after drying.

Many leathers used for leather goods are treated to resist water stains from  light rain.

2. Thickness: Skins produce smooth leathers that can be used for bookbinding, gloves, linings, and clothing; they have a distinctive softness. Cowhides can have different thicknesses because they can be split into several layers. When split into thin layers, the leather can be used for clothing, gloves, and leather goods. 

On the other hand, medium-weight leathers are more widely used for upholstered furniture, auto parts, shoes, handbags, and leather goods, while thick leathers are used for shoe soles and handicrafts.

3. Aesthetics and Surface Design : The many variations in colour, texture, feel, smell, surface durability and feel of leather make it a very unique and valuable product.

Leather can be as natural as genuine vegetable leather or as refined and high-performance as car seats.  Leather is fashionable in every colour while maintaining superior technical performance.

4. Heat Insulation: One of the main reasons why leather feels so comfortable against human skin is  its strong thermal insulation properties. Thermal insulation is a measure of how quickly heat transfers through a material.

And because leather contains a large amount of air (which is a poor conductor of heat),  heat moves through the material extremely slowly.

5. Malleability: Another factor that makes leather  a desirable material is  its ability to be molded into  new shapes. It can be stiffened or pliable and hold its new shape as required. This is  important for shoes, as no two feet are  exactly the same size and shape. With just a little wear, they will quickly adjust to a perfect fit.

Why Leather Requires Special Care During Indian Winters

Leather requires special care during winters because Cold air can dry out leather, causing it to crack, while excess moisture from humidity and rain can weaken the structure and lead to mould and mildew. Winters in India vary greatly from region to region.

Northern India experiences cooler temperatures and drier air, while coastal and southern regions suffer from dampness and humidity. These different conditions can take their toll on leather. 

Key Issues Leather Faces During Indian Winters:

• Cracking due to dryness and lack of moisture.

• Growth of mould due to damp conditions.

• Fading and discolouration due to intense sunlight in some areas.

• Salt pans in some areas where salt is used on roads and footpaths to prevent ice formation.

Essential Leather Cleaning Tips for Cold Seasons in India

During the colder months, it's essential to give your leather items a little extra care to keep them looking their best. Here's what you need to know:

1. Regular cleaning and maintenance:

• It's important to clean and maintain leather items regularly to prevent them from drying out and cracking. Winter conditions can rob leather of moisture, leading to cracking and unsightly damage. 

• Use a mild leather cleaner and a soft cloth to gently remove dirt.

• After cleaning, apply a quality leather conditioner to replenish lost moisture and keep the leather soft and smooth.

2. Waterproof or Weatherproof Treatment:

• Protecting your leather from snow and rain is essential to prolonging its life. Waterproof or weatherproof treatments create a protective barrier that repels moisture, preventing it from penetrating the leather and damaging it.

• Before applying any treatment, make sure your leather is clean and dry. Follow product instructions carefully and apply an even coat to ensure complete coverage. Repeat treatment periodically throughout the winter to maintain maximum protection. 

• By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your leather items stay in top condition throughout the winter months, ready to face the elements for style and durability.

How to Clean Leather During Winter

1. Wipe off dust: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris.

2. Use a mild leather cleaner: Apply a leather cleaner or a simple solution of water and mild soap to a damp cloth. Gently clean the surface without oversaturating the leather.

3. Dry naturally: Allow the leather to dry naturally away from direct heat sources, as heat can cause the material to crack.

4. Spot cleaning: For areas exposed to salt or mud, use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to gently wipe the stains.

How to Moisturize Leather to Prevent Cracking in Cold Weather 

During the cold winter months, leather naturally loses moisture, especially in the dry regions of India. To prevent cracking, it is important to moisturize leather regularly.

• Use a leather conditioner after washing to restore lost oils.

• Choose products specifically designed for winter weather, such as wax-based conditioners that further prevent moisture loss.

• Apply the care product with a soft cloth and rub  in circular motions to ensure even coverage.

• Leave on for several hours or overnight to aid absorption.

• Rub surface with a clean, dry cloth to remove  excess product.

Best Leather Conditioners for Indian Winters 

Choosing the right leather conditioner is important for maintaining your leather products in winters. Not all grooming products are created equal, so it is important to choose a product based on your specific needs.

Recommended leather care products for Indian winters: 

• Wax-based care products: Protect against the cold and damp, perfect for northern India.

• Natural oils: Made from natural ingredients such as beeswax and mink oil,  products are ideal for soft leather items like jackets and gloves.

• Silicone-based sprays: Useful for waterproofing leather shoes and bags without altering their structure.

• Care products with UV protection function: Ideal for sunny areas where strong sunlight hits the leather  even in winter.

Storing Leather Products in Winter  

Proper storage is important to protect your leather products when not in use, especially in extreme winter conditions. Storing leather in the wrong environment can cause permanent damage.

Tips for storing leather in winter:-  

• Protect from moisture: Store your leather products in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to mould.

• Use breathable materials: Avoid using plastic covers as they can trap moisture. Instead, store your leather in a cloth or breathable bag.

• Stuffing your shoes and bags: Stuff your shoes and bags with tissue paper or soft cloth to keep them in shape.

• Avoid direct sunlight: Store your leather products out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and drying out.

• How to hang your leather jacket correctly: Use a padded hanger to prevent the shoulders of your leather jacket from becoming misshapen.

Common leather damage in Indian winters and how to avoid them 

During winters, leather is susceptible to many different types of damage. Knowing how to prevent these issues can help protect your favourite items from premature wear.

1. Cracking and Dryness Problem: The cold, dry air of northern India can cause leather to crack.

2. Solution: Moisten leather regularly with a leather care product and avoid exposing it to extreme cold without proper care.

3. Mould and Mildew Problem: Leather stored in a humid environment (such as coastal regions) can develop mould.

4. Solution: Store leather in a dry place and use a dehumidifier if necessary. If mould appears, clean it with a mixture of alcohol and water.

5. Salt Stains Problem: In cold climates where salt is used to de-ice roads, salt stains can remain on leather shoes and bags.

6. Solution: Salt stains can be removed immediately with a mixture of vinegar and water. Periodic waterproofing can also be effective.

7. Fading and Discoloration Problem: Fading can occur after prolonged exposure to sunlight in winter.

8. Solution: Use leather products with UV protection and store them out of direct sunlight.

Tips for Long-Term Leather Care

Keeping your leather items in good condition requires a little regular maintenance. Here are some essential tips to ensure your leather items look great all year round:

1. Establish a care routine: Get into the habit of cleaning and maintaining your leather items regularly. Set up a weekly, monthly, or seasonal schedule to check and maintain your items. Regular maintenance helps prevent dirt build-up, drying out, and cracking, prolonging the life of your leather.

2. Store them in a cool, dry place: Proper storage is essential for unused leather items. Choose a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid damp areas, as moisture can encourage mould growth and damage your leather over time.

By following these simple tips, you can preserve the beauty and durability of your leather products for years to come.

Conclusion:

Caring for your leather products during the winter requires special attention, but it is well worth the effort. By properly cleaning, conditioning, waterproofing and storing your leather goods, you can ensure they remain in good condition despite harsh winter conditions.

Remember to promptly repair any minor damage and rotate your leather products to prolong their life. With these simple steps, your leather goods will continue to look beautiful and last for many winters to come.