4 Tips To Keep Your Leather Looking Great
OK, so you bought that leather jacket or pants either new or used and want to keep it looking good or clean it up a little. See how Matt Damon keeps his leather looking good.
1. Proper storage is one of the first steps you can take to make sure that your jacket will last a lifetime. Keep leather away from moisture and heat. A good spot for your leather jacket is out of direct sunlight. Leather has to breathe, so never store it in plastic or other nonporous materials or packaging. When hanging leather, be sure that it is on a sturdy, supportive hanger, which will can prevent stretching and sagging and should otherwise aid it in holding the proper shape. Moth balls are not a good idea since the leather absorbs the smell.
2. Maintenance will also extend the life of your leather jacket. Treat new leather with a conditioner that is specifically made for leather, and you have already taken a big step towards protecting your jacket. For best results, retreat annually. Be sure to avoid waxes or other products that will not allow the leather to breathe since they can have the same damaging effects as leaving your jacket in a plastic bag. Pay particular attention to areas such as the cuffs and the neck. Because they are in constant contact with body dirt and oils, they may need extra maintenance. Finally, allow wet leather to dry naturally, out of direct sunlight and away from any heat sources.
3. Cleaning of conditioned leather should be with a natural stain repellent, but even with the most diligent of care, stains happen. Quickly treating stains, as they are fast-setting and will likely be permanent within hours, should be of top concern. When cleaning leather, always use a lint-free or micro fiber cloth and clean in the direction of the natural grain of the leather, working from the center out. For previous well-treated leather, simply wiping with a cloth will remove most stains. Too much cleaning will damage the jacket. Cleaning once each season should be sufficient.
4. Protecting. There are three main categories of leather protectors: wax based, silicone based, and water-based. The waxed based ones are good, although over a period of time they may leave a build-up on the jacket, rather as furniture polish does on furniture. The silicone based ones are also effective but have a distinct smell to them.
The water-based is made from natural products and despite being water-based, this product protects not just against inclement weather but against fading and UV damage, humidity, mold and mildew, and a variety of non-corrosive liquids.
With proper care, which includes occasional professional cleaning, your leather will last for decades. It is also advisable to choose a coat that will withstand the temporary fashion trends.
Labels: Matt Damon, money saving tip
Posted By: Joe on Sunday, March 02, 2008
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