How to Store Leather Goods to Prevent Damage

Leather goods are a timeless investment, known for their durability, elegance, and unique appeal. Whether it's a leather jacket, shoes, handbag, or furniture, proper care is essential to maintain their quality and longevity. Unfortunately, improper storage can lead to irreversible damage, such as cracking, fading, or mold growth. This guide will explore the best practices for storing leather goods to prevent damage, including understanding leather's needs, preparing it for storage, and troubleshooting common issues.

Understanding Leather and Its Needs

Leather is a natural material that requires special care. Its porous nature allows it to breathe, which is essential for maintaining its suppleness and structure. However, this also means that leather is vulnerable to environmental factors such as moisture, heat, and light.

1. Why Leather Requires Special Care
   Leather is made from animal hides that undergo a tanning process, making it durable and flexible. However, this natural material retains some of its organic characteristics, which means it can be sensitive to humidity, temperature changes, and even oils from your skin. Proper storage is crucial to preserving its texture, color, and shape over time.

1. Environmental Factors Affecting Leather
   Leather’s enemies are excessive moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. High humidity can cause mold and mildew, while extreme dryness can lead to cracks. Similarly, exposure to UV rays can cause fading and weakening of the material. Therefore, understanding how to balance these factors is key to ensuring leather remains in good condition.

Preparing Leather Goods for Storage

Before storing leather items, it’s important to take the necessary preparatory steps to clean and condition them.

1. Cleaning and Conditioning
   Dirt and dust can settle into the leather's pores, leading to deterioration. Clean leather goods with a soft, damp cloth to remove any surface dirt. For deeper cleaning, use a gentle leather cleaner that suits the specific type of leather. After cleaning, conditioning is essential to restore moisture. Leather conditioners prevent the material from drying out and cracking during storage.

1. Tools and Products for Leather Care
   Some tools and products that can help include:
• Soft cloths or sponges for cleaning
• Leather conditioners that maintain moisture
• pH-balanced leather cleaners for deep cleaning
• Brushes for gentle dust removal

Optimal Storage Conditions

Creating an ideal environment is critical for storing leather goods long-term.

1. Temperature and Humidity Levels
   The best way to store leather items is to keep them in a cool, dry place. The optimal temperature range is between 60-70°F (15-21°C), and humidity should be around 40-50%. A room that maintains a stable climate will prevent issues like mold growth and drying out. Using a dehumidifier or air purifier can help regulate these conditions, especially if you're in an area prone to high humidity.

1. Protection from Sunlight and Heat
   Direct sunlight can fade and dry out leather, leading to cracks. Leather should be kept away from windows and other sources of direct sunlight. Consider using storage areas that are shaded or use covers to protect leather from incidental light exposure.

Storing Various Leather Items

Different leather goods have unique needs. Here's how to store a range of items properly:

1. Leather Jackets
   Leather jackets should be hung on padded hangers to maintain their shape. Using breathable garment bags will protect them from dust while allowing air circulation.
2. Leather Shoes
   Shoes can lose their shape if stored improperly. Use shoe trees or fill them with acid-free tissue paper. Place them in breathable cloth bags or containers to avoid moisture buildup.
3. Leather Bags
   For handbags, remove any contents, fill them with tissue paper, and store them upright to retain their shape. Avoid hanging bags, as this can stretch the handles over time.
4. Leather Belts
   Belts should be rolled loosely or hung by the buckle to avoid creasing.
5. Leather Furniture
   If storing leather furniture, clean and condition it first. Cover the furniture with breathable fabric to protect it from dust. Ensure the storage space has consistent climate control to avoid extreme temperature shifts.

Storage Best Practices

1. Avoid Plastic Storage
   Leather is a breathable material, and storing it in plastic can trap moisture, leading to mold. Instead, use cotton or canvas bags that allow airflow.

1. Breathable Storage Options
   Ideal materials for storage include cotton dust bags, linen covers, and wooden storage boxes lined with fabric. These options help keep leather clean without stifling it.

Preventive Measures During Storage

1. Preventing Mold, Mildew, and Insect Damage
   Store leather in dry areas and keep it away from damp basements or attics. Regularly check for signs of moisture or pests. Placing silica gel packets in storage spaces can help absorb excess moisture.

1. Importance of Regular Checks
   Even while in storage, leather goods should be inspected periodically. Checking for early signs of mold, cracks, or fading allows you to take action before the damage becomes irreversible.

Troubleshooting Common Leather Storage Issues

1. Dealing with Moisture and Mold
   If moisture or mold appears, clean the leather immediately. Use a leather cleaner designed to handle mold, and allow the item to dry thoroughly before conditioning.

1. When to Seek Professional Help
   In cases of severe damage, discoloration, or persistent mold, it's best to consult a professional leather restorer. They can provide treatments that go beyond basic cleaning.

Properly storing leather goods is crucial for preserving their quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. By understanding the unique needs of leather and following the recommended care and storage practices, you can ensure that your leather items remain in excellent condition for years. Regular checks, maintaining optimal storage conditions, and timely cleaning and conditioning can prevent common issues like cracking, fading, and mold growth.

With the right approach, your leather possessions will continue to look their best and provide long-lasting enjoyment. To maintain and protect leather items, MooBuzz offers a range of natural leather care products. These include cleaners, waterproofing solutions and cleaning essentials that are designed to keep leather supple, protected, and looking great throughout its lifespan.

FAQs

How often should leather be conditioned if stored long term?

Conditioning should be done at least once every six months. This prevents the leather from drying out and keeps it soft and supple.

Can leather goods be stored in a basement or attic?

It is not advisable to store leather goods in basements or attics due to fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels, which can lead to mold growth or cracks. Opt for a cool, dry, and stable environment instead.

What are the signs that leather goods are not stored properly?

Signs include visible mold, cracks, fading, and an unusual odor. If leather appears stiff or has lost its color, it may not have been stored under ideal conditions.

How to remove mold from stored leather items?

Use a damp cloth with a mixture of water and mild leather cleaner to gently wipe off the mold. Allow the leather to dry completely before applying a conditioner. For persistent issues, consider using MooBuzz products to maintain and protect the leather during storage.