What is the Best Way to Store Leather Goods?

Introduction

Leather is a natural material that can get damaged and misshapen if not adequately cared for. Many people forget the necessary steps to keep luxury leather goods in good condition, which can reduce the value of their investment. Leather can dry out and change color if exposed to direct sunlight for too long, and it can develop mold if left in damp areas. Therefore, knowing how to store your leather goods is crucial to prevent damage.

Caring for your leather accessories helps them last longer, preventing wrinkles and severe degradation. Keeping your leather clean and maintaining it over time is one of the best things you can do for your leather goods.

Below are step-by-step guidelines you can follow at home to keep your leather looking fresh and luxurious for a long time.

Leather Storing Tips According To Leather Product Type

Before we discuss the best ways to store your leather goods, let's first consider what kinds of leather goods you might want to store. This will help us figure out the best storage methods.

Here are some everyday leather goods you might need to store:

Leather Bag

A leather bag is a must-have in any wardrobe. Leather is highly valued for backpacks, evening purses, and luggage. Keeping the leather in good condition and maintaining the bag's shape is essential when storing these goods.

Leather Belt

Hanging your leather belt by the buckle is the best way to keep its shape. But if you need more closet space, storing it properly is the next best option. The key is to prevent unnecessary bending and creasing.

Leather Jacket

Many people own leather jackets, a classic item. Since they are large pieces of leather, you should avoid folding them. However, improper folding can deform the jacket. Knowing how to store a leather jacket is vital to prevent damage.

How to Store Leather Products Properly

You can take a few steps to slow down or prevent mold when storing your leather products. By following these tips, you can extend the lifespan of leather goods. 

Clean and Condition

This simple step is often forgotten but is essential before storing leather goods. Whether it is a leather ottoman or jacket, you should regularly clean and condition your leather. Use a boar's hair brush to remove any dirt buildup. Boar's hair would not scratch the leather but is strong enough to clean it. After brushing your leather goods, use a mild soap and water solution with a clean washcloth for deeper stains.

Polish Your Leather

Cleaning and conditioning your leather is essential, but you should also polish it to make it look its best. Polishing regularly keeps the leather soft and keeps it safe from cracking. Here's how to do it:

• Use a small brush to apply polishing cream to the leather.
• Let the cream soak in for a minute.
• Brush off any extra cream.
• Wipe the leather with a rag.

Store in Moderate Temperature

Because leather is made of skin, it is highly important to store it at a moderate temperature. For instance, you can store it in a basement or attic. However, there is too much direct sunlight, harsh weather, and dampness. The leather is in storage, and you will notice after a year when it is too late. However, finding a favorable storage place with an average temperature is essential.

Use Dust Bag To Store

Simply keeping your leather goods dry by placing them in a box, wrapping them in plastic, or keeping them away from wet surfaces is not enough. Moisture can still get trapped, leading to mold growth.

Instead, use a dust bag! Most high-end bags come with a dust bag when you buy them, so if you have one, you are in luck. Store your dust bags in an elevated, well-ventilated area away from heat, sunlight, and air-conditioning units to further prevent mold.

Keep Safe From Moisture 

There are many ways to keep moisture away from your leather products. Using moisture absorbers like silica gel or activated charcoal is a cheap option. These absorbers come in small packs to place near your leather goods. Be careful with the ingredients in these absorbers as they are poisonous. However, avoid those with calcium chloride, which can leak and damage leather bags. 

Choosing the Right Storage Location 

The heat and humidity in basements and attics can damage your leather. Make sure your storage spot is safe by following our checklist: 

• Leather Storage Checklist
• Keep in low light
• Maintain 50% humidity
• Wrap in paper, not plastic
• Do not fold leather
• Avoid storing on cement floors
• Do not mix different leather goods in the same bin
• Keep leather away from metal

Final Thoughts

Follow these steps, and your leather accessory will last for generations. Storing leather can be tricky, but keeping your expensive item looking good over the years is worth it.

If this seems too tricky, you can hire a professional cleaning service to store it. Find a local business experienced with leather products, and let them take care of your valuable item.