How to Soften Leather Safely: Step-by-Step Instructions

Leather, synonymous with luxury and durability, can occasionally become stiff and lose some appeal. But don't worry; there's a solution, whether you're trying to make a leather shoulder bag, or a leather jacket supple again. 

Here, our experts share some general information about what might cause your leather item to become stiff and how you can improve the issue. Remember that Latico doesn't recommend these methods for our buttery-soft, heirloom leather bags.

Let's explore the fine art of softening leather.

Causes of Leather Stiffness

Often, leather stiffness can be traced back to three leading causes.

• Type of leather: Leather comes from various animals, and each type has different characteristics and degrees of stiffness. For example, bovine leather is tough and durable; deerskin is softer and more pliable; and lambskin is the smoothest and most delicate.
• Environmental stressors: Excessively dry or moist climates can wreak havoc on leather's structural integrity, distorting its flexibility. Exposure to direct sunlight or high temperatures can also compel leather to stiffen.
• Age & usage: Aging triggers the leather's natural oils and moisture evaporation, causing a loss of flexibility. Even sustained usage of leather goods, such as a highly favored pair of boots or a go-to leather handbag, can result in rigidity.

How to Soften Leather:

Restore your leather's softness and charm with proactive leather care. We've curated precise, practical steps to guide you through the process, whether you're looking to soften leather shoes, a leather jacket, a leather crossbody bag, or any other cherished leather product.

Step 1: Clean the Leather

1. Use a soft, dry cloth or brush to dust off visible dirt and debris.
2. Mix mild soap and water to clean gently if the leather appears exceedingly dirty.
3. Use this solution to cleanse the leather, not soaking it. A damp cloth works best.
4. Rinse thoroughly, ensuring no soap residue remains.
5. Let the leather dry naturally, avoiding exposure to direct heat from heaters or radiators, as this might misshape your item.

Step 2: Apply a Leather Conditioner

We don't recommend using a conditioner on any Latico products; however, you may see positive results when using one on items by other brands.

Several products lead the way when it comes to leather conditioning. Leather Honey Conditioner and Lexol Conditioner are industry favorites, known for their superior quality and performance. They're packed with safe oils that lubricate and enrich your leather, enhancing its flexibility without leaving a greasy residue that could mar the product's aesthetics.

Step-by-Step Conditioning Process:

How do you apply the conditioner? Here's the simple process:

1. Pour a small amount of your chosen conditioner onto a clean cloth. Direct application onto the leather may risk over-saturation and cracking.
2. With this cloth, evenly apply the conditioner to your leather product using broad or circular strokes. The goal is a thin, even layer, so avoid over-application.
3. Pay special attention to particularly stiff areas, such as the jacket elbows, boot ankles, and toes.
4. Once done, witness your leather transform.

Remember, regular conditioning is vital to retaining your leather's softness, so mark your calendar for the next round of leather care.

Household Methods for Softening Leather

It's possible to use everyday household items with a stiff leather jacket, leather tote, or pair of leather shoes to restore the leather item to its original suppleness. While we don't recommend applying these methods to Latico products, you may find them helpful with your other leather purchases.

Use Natural Oils

Natural oils like coconut, jojoba, and avocado are excellent for softening leather:

1. Expose the leather to sunlight for 10 minutes to open the pores.
2. Apply a small amount of oil to a clean cloth. Rub the oil into the leather using broad, circular strokes.
3. Allow the leather to absorb the oil fully before using the item again.

Apply Heat

Sometimes, applying heat serves as a quicker way to soften stiff leather. However, caution is necessary since excessive heat can cause further damage. To use dry heat, apply a moisturizing leather conditioner first and then move a hairdryer back and forth about 6 inches away from the leather. Avoid concentrating heat on a single spot. To use moist heat, hang your leather accessory in the bathroom during a hot shower. This exposes the item to damp heat, helping to soften the material without any adverse effects. 

Use Alcohol & Vaseline

To rejuvenate old and stiff leather:

1. Rub alcohol on the leather using a cloth.
2. Allow the alcohol to dry completely.
3. Apply Vaseline to the dried leather, rubbing it with circular motions.
4. Let the Vaseline penetrate overnight and wipe off any excess in the morning. This will break down stiff fibers and add moisture back into the leather.

Use Water & Moisture

Spray a fine water mist onto the leather surface—avoid soaking the leather. Wipe any excess water with a dry cloth to ensure the leather is damp, not wet (since leather isn't waterproof). Allow the leather to air-dry naturally while avoiding direct heat sources. Once the item is dehydrated, apply a leather conditioner.

Preventative Measures for Leather Care

Adopting a proactive approach to leather care is essential to keeping your leather items soft and supple. The following measures can prevent damage to your leather.

• Regular cleaning eliminates dirt and oils that can accumulate over time, stiffening the leather. A gentle leather cleaner with a pH close to that of leather (pH 4.5) works best.
• Proper storage: To prevent dust accumulation, use breathable dust covers or cotton sheets with leather bags, jackets, and shoes. Store the leather items in a cool, dry place to ensure the natural oils do not dry out, resulting in stiff leather. 
• Regular maintenance: Leather conditioning replenishes the natural oils, restoring the leather's suppleness. It's essential to select a conditioner that suits the leather type.
• Avoid direct sunlight or high heat exposure: Prolonged exposure can fade, dry, and eventually crack the leather.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-conditioning leather can lead to oversaturation and may cause more harm than good.
• Choosing the wrong leather conditioner can have disastrous results. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Drying leather items using direct heat or placing them close to a heater can make the leather hard and brittle. 
• Using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning materials on leather can also cause severe damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does leather stiffen and lose its appeal over time? 

Leather stiffens due to various factors, including the type of leather, environmental conditions, age, and usage.

How can I soften vegetable-tanned leather? 

You can use a suitable conditioner for vegetable-tanned leather. Careful heat application can also soften this type of leather. Beware of applying too much heat, as it could damage the leather.

What are the best methods to soften chrome-tanned leather? 

Gentle heat application and conditioning can benefit chrome-tanned leather. However, always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the leather responds well to the treatment.

Does oil-tanned leather respond well to natural oils? 

Yes, oil-tanned leather generally responds well to natural oils such as coconut and mink. Apply the oil sparingly and evenly to the leather surface.

How can I prevent leather from stiffening? 

Preventive measures for leather include:

• Regular cleaning.
• Proper storage in a cool and dry place.
• Diligent maintenance with suitable leather conditioners.
• Avoid direct exposure to sunlight and high heat.

What are the common mistakes to avoid in leather care? 

Common mistakes include overconditioning and the use of harsh chemicals. These can damage the leather and may result in stiffness and discoloration. Stick to products and practices specifically designed for leather care.