Deemed one of the most traded products globally, Leather has been known to last generations. The export value of hides and skins crosses $5 billion dollars annually. Since as far as the Paleolithic era, leather has been used in the manufacture of shoes and accessories. Hence, maintaining its quality translates into it lasting you a lifetime.

Will Conditioning Leather Make It Softer?

Leather conditioning is a step in the right direction regarding the R&R (rest and recuperation) of leather products. Not only does it help maintain its outward appearance, but also absorbs into its surface to nourish the fibers and supplement its flexibility. It creates a protective layer against water damage or stains and damaging cracks that would take away from the beauty of the fabric. Similar to waterproofing, it helps maintain the quality of the leather so that it's less susceptible to everyday wear and tear.

When Should I Use a Leather Conditioner?

The regularity with which you condition leather products is dependent entirely on how often they are used. So if the leather looks like it's beginning to dry or look faded, that's the right time to get right to it. For items used on a daily, once a month is sufficient to keep them looking in shape and top-notch. Items used less frequently and stored away during seasons, once every six months work better. You can even set a Spring/Fall schedule.

Spring cleaning of leather products would entail removing any salt or build-up from the winter season and preparation for the brink of summer ahead or storage if not used in other seasons. In Fall, a little conditioning could go a long way for the cold weather that follows. Items subject to more heavy-duty work or sun exposure require more upkeep. You want to make sure not to condition too often so as not to land up with tacky or sticky leather.

Does Conditioning Leather Make It Stronger?

Leather conditioners enable the durability of fibers and keep leather surfaces from corroding consequently making them stronger to withstand all sorts of temperatures and environments. They keep pliability intact and promise that the leather is unharmed through and through. The chemicals most commonly found in leather conditioners and oils bind the fabric together to protect it from potential damage at all times.

Top leather conditioners and cleaners

Here’s a list of the most effective leather conditioners and cleaners that you should consider before making a purchase

Lexol Leather Conditioner:

Lexol users have given it a 4-and-a-half-star rating and around 3000 good reviews deeming it the "Fountain of Youth '' but for non living goods. Got a leather handbag that is your most prized possession? Lexol has you covered on the leather care front.

Adams Leather And Interior Cleaner:

Use a mild formula to treat the leather interior of your cars. We know how important cars are to men and they make no compromises on them especially if the seats are leather. It is safe to use on all surfaces within a vehicle. The absence of additives in its solution makes it a good cleaner that requires the finishing touches of a conditioner.

Aero Cosmetics Leather Cleaning Kit:

Comes with a 16 oz bottle of leather and vinyl cleaner, 2 microfibre towels, and a scrubbing pad. It goes without saying how it would make the best deep cleaner, especially on products that have been soiled badly over the years and require extra precision. Aero Cosmetics sells conditioners separately and the combination of both would leave leather looking nothing short of classy.

Meguiar’s Gold Class Rich Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Wipes:

Are you heading out the door for an early morning meeting and accidentally spilling coffee on your car seat? Look no further than Meguiar's wipes, they are 3 in 1 and clean, condition, and protect all in one go.

Turtle Wax Luxe Leather Conditioner:

Contains cocoa butter and vitamin E that works on leather, vinyl, plastic, and rubber alike. Its pH-balanced formula is also available in disposable wipes form to make sure you're taken care of on the go too.

How to use a Homemade Leather Conditioner?

1. Mix one quart of warm water. one tablespoon of soap and a couple of drops of vinegar.
2. Dip a cloth into the mixture and wring it out after dipping to ensure it's damp and not completely soaked.
3. Wipe down the surface of the leather furniture piece or car seat,
4. Allow the leather to air dry once done.

Some may argue that leather isn't sustainable fashion and is causing environmental damage, proponents suggest that because of its longevity, it does fall under a sustainable choice.