It is undeniable that a premium quality leather piece is expensive and it can last for years if a proper care is taken place. But, Malaysia, being an equatorial country that is hot and humid all year making it tougher to maintain the natural beauty of the leather sometimes. However, the conditions surely can be improved if one equip himself with maintenance care know-how knowledge.
Mould growth is the most common problem found in all types of leather goods. Such problem is unavoidable because moulds are living organisms found everywhere surrounding us. Thus, if you own a leather good, it’s important to take precaution to inhibit the growth of moulds or to limit its damage if they have already invaded the leather good. Here you go some important steps:-
1. It’s advisable to treat your leather goods with anti-mould coatings in a periodical basis. In doing so, it helps to prevent the invasion of mould into them.
2. Keeping them clean is another key factor to prevent mould growth. Regularly wipe them with dry cloth or clean with proper leather cleaning solution to remove residues left on the leather surface during everyday use which might be nutritious in promoting mould growth.
3. If they gets wet , let them air-dry naturally away from any direct heat source.
4. High humidity environment fosters the growth of moulds. Thus, when you store them, make sure the place is cool and well-ventilated. And try these methods to reduce humidity:
a) Use an air conditioner or a fan for lowering the moisture level
b) Leave closet and cabinets doors opened for a few hours once a week
c) Let windows opened as much as possible, especially in mould-prone areas
d) Use Silica Gel to absorb moisture and replace a new one when it turns pink. Alternatively, get yourself a reusable dehumidifier if you find replenishing is a hassle and not cost-effective.
The next common problem of leather is cracking. Cracks usually set in when the leather’s natural oils has been bleached out after a long-term exposure to direct heat source or sunlight and loss in flexibility due to high/low humidity cycles. Body oil and dirt build-up is another culprit that causes cracking in leather too. Cracks happened when the accumulative build-up on the leather becomes more aggressive during daily usage and over period of time, it will break down the leather’s top coating or dye resulting in visible cracks at the surface.
Well, leather cracks prevention is a lot easier than you thought and all you require is a small amount of maintenance. First, you have to remember not to “sun” them because the heat will only make leather become brittle and crack in no times. Second, clean and condition them with proper products several times a year to keep them away from oil and dirt build-ups as well as to moisturize them.
Is caring of your precious leather piece sounded easy and straight-forward? Equip yourself with these tips now and never too late to start taking care of it.
