How To Soften Leather The Right Way?

If you have ever owned a genuine leather jacket, you know this outerwear can be both comfortable and stylish. But what you may not know is that leather is also quite durable. With the proper care, your leather goods can last for many, many years. However, sometimes leather can become stiff and hard to work with. This is usually due to either age or lack of moisture  and Australia's dry heat and harsh sun can speed that up considerably. If your leather goods are starting to feel a bit stiff, there are a few things you can do to soften stiff leather.

Method No. 1 Using Natural Oils to Soften Leather

Oil is an effective way to soften leather. You can use any type of oil, such as olive oil or jojoba oil. The best way to apply the oil is to pour a small amount onto a clean cloth and rub it into the leather in a circular motion. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the leather. Once you have applied the oil, allow it to soak in for at least 30 minutes before buffing it off with a dry cloth. You should notice an immediate difference in the softness and pliability, which is especially helpful for thicker outerwear like leather coats. With regular treatment, you can keep your leather looking soft and supple for years to come.

Method No. 2 Using a Conditioner to Soften Leather

One way to soften leather is to use a conditioner. Leather conditioners are designed to replenish the natural oils in the leather, helping to keep it soft and flexible particularly valuable after a hot, dry summer that pulls moisture out of the hide. There are many different types of leather conditioners available on the market, so it is important to choose one that is specifically designed for leather. To use a conditioner, simply apply it to a clean cloth and rub it into the leather in a circular motion. Be sure to avoid getting any conditioner on any non-leather surfaces, as it can cause staining. Once the conditioner has been evenly applied, allow it to sit for several minutes before wiping away any excess. Regularly conditioning a premium garment like a leather blazer will help keep it looking its best for years to come.

Method No. 3 Using a Commercial Leather Softener

A commercial leather softener can help to restore the material to its original softness and flexibility. Simply apply the softener according to the manufacturer's instructions, then rub it into the leather using a soft cloth. The softener will penetrate the surface of the leather, restoring its natural oils and making it more pliable. In addition, the softener will help to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking in the future. With a little care and regular treatment, your leather products will stay looking new for years to come.

Method No. 4 Using Alcohol & Vaseline

If you have a leather item that feels too stiff, you can try softening it with a combination of alcohol and Vaseline. First, liberally apply alcohol to the leather with a cloth. Then, use another cloth to rub Vaseline into the leather. The alcohol will help to break down the fibres in the leather, and the Vaseline will help to lubricate them. After a few minutes of rubbing, the leather should feel much softer. If it’s still too stiff, you can repeat the process. Just be sure not to use too much alcohol, as it can cause the leather to dry out and crack. With a little care, you can keep your leather goods looking and feeling great for years to come.

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Tips for Keeping Leather from Becoming Stiff

• Don't let it get too dry. Leather is made from animal skin, so it needs to be kept moisturised in order to stay soft. When leather gets too dry, it can become brittle and crack a real risk under the harsh Australian sun. Be sure to regularly clean and condition finished leather goods to keep them hydrated, though remember that suede jackets require entirely different dry-cleaning methods.
• Avoid exposing it to excessive heat or sunlight. Just like your skin, leather can suffer from sun damage if it's exposed to too much UV light. If you must store your leather goods in a sunny spot, be sure to cover them with a light cloth to protect them from the sun's rays.
• Don't get it wet. Water can damage leather, causing it to warp and crack. If your leather goods do get wet from winter rain be sure to dry them off as soon as possible.
• Keep it out of direct contact with other materials. Leather can be damaged by friction, so it's important to avoid storing it next to other materials that might rub up against it (like denim or canvas).

Conclusion

So, if you want to keep your leather looking great for years to come, follow these simple tips on how to soften it. It's a beautiful material, but it can also be very tough, so it’s important to take care to make it last longer. By using a few household items and following these easy steps, you can keep your leather in good condition for the seasons to come. Don't miss our latest selection of women's leather jackets, which is perfect for any occasion from work outfits to date night looks, we have you covered!

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