Professional Leather Cleaning
If you have a very special or very delicate leather item, or if you do not want to take any chances cleaning it yourself, there are professional leather cleaners that can do it for you. Many dry cleaners offer leather cleaning services through which your leather is sent off-site to a professional cleaning company and then returned to the dry cleaners. Although this process is done by professionals, slight variations in color, texture, and shape may result; so be sure to clean matching garments together even if only one piece is dirty.
Cleaning at Home
In many cases, all that is necessary to clean leather is a damp cloth or a store-bought leather cleaner. This will remove any surface dust or dirt. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions when using a cleaner specifically for leather. If the leather has been in contact with perspiration, water, or is stiff, you may need a more substantial method to cleanse it.
Hand Washing
Washing Leather in a Washing Machine
Some people claim that leather can be washed using a washing machine set on a very gentle (wool or delicate) setting with warm or cool water. This method may not be worth the risk if you are washing a very old vintage piece. If you choose to use this method, DO NOT use any detergent meant for washing clothes other than Woolite or Soap Flakes. Also, do not use more soap than is necessary to make the water slippery with a small amount of bubbles. Too much soap will make the leather dry and stiff! Once the leather has completely dried, then it is time to condition it!
Conditioning Vintage Leather
Conditioning leather replaces the tanning oils that are depleted over time through wear, heat, and moisture. Reconditioning leather every 6-9 months will ensure that it never becomes stiff, dry, or cracked. A leather conditioner is necessary for this step. There are hundreds of products available for this task, so read the label before using a leather conditioner to be sure that that particular product is suitable for your vintage leather item. Do not use leather conditioners that contain waxes or silicone which do not allow the leather to breathe
