Leather is known to be a durable and luxurious material. However, it also gets old and can develop various issues that diminish its appearance and functionality. As a leather user, you must be able to know and understand the common problems that could destroy your precious items, so you can prolong their life and enjoy their beauty and luster for years to come.
1. Cracking and Splitting
To stay supple, leather needs to retain its natural oils. Despite its durability, leather can dry out and crack when exposed to sunlight and heat. Regular use of a leather item can also cause it to split and crack, so it is best to seek the help of experts when you notice this issue on your treasures.
2. Fading and Discoloration
Leather, when exposed to UV rays, can fade and discolor. The same issue also happens if there is contact with harsh chemicals, including cleaning agents not designed for leather.
3. Stains and Spots
Liquid spills like wine, coffee, or ink can leave stains on leather. Over time, natural oils from skin and hair can also accumulate and may lead to dark spots.
4. Scuffs and Scratches
Leather items may acquire scuffs and scratches when there’s contact with rough surfaces. It can even leave more significant scratches when there’s an accidental contact with sharp objects.
5. Loss of Flexibility and Softness
Leather items need regular conditioning because it naturally loses some of its flexibility and softness over time. If not conditioned regularly, leather can become stiff.
6. Mold and Mildew
Leather need not to be exposed to damp or humid conditions, because it can lead to growth of mold and mildew. It is best to store leather items in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Use of dehumidifiers also helps to reduce moisture levels.
7. Peeling and Flaking
There are leather items that are prone to peeling. An example is an item made from bonded leather, which is a mixture of leather scraps and polyurethane. Over time, genuine leather can begin to peel if it starts to break down. Intense peeling needs professional repair, which is where Doctor Leather comes in.
While leather is a durable and stylish material, it requires proper care and maintenance. These common issues are inevitable even for genuine leather, but there are ways to prevent them. By employing the right solutions and trusting the leather experts, particularly our team at Doctor Leather, you can keep your leather items looking their best for years to come.
To enjoy and preserve the beauty and functionality of your precious items, protect them from environmental damage and entrust them to our leather specialists. Visit any of our branches nationwide to experience the excellence of our leather care services!