Leather Types and Care. A Comprehensive Guide.

How to care for natural leather? A complete guide to cleaning, waterproofing, and care.

Natural leather is an elegant and durable material, but requires proper care to maintain its aesthetic and functional properties for years to come. Different types of leather:

• facing ,
• suede ,
• nubuck
• leather with hair

They have different care requirements. Learn how to care for them step by step.

1. Full grain leather (smooth)

Cleaning

• Before any other treatment, remove dust and soil with a soft brush or a slightly damp cotton cloth.

• In case of heavier dirt, you can use special milks or cleaning foams intended for smooth leather.

Lubrication and nutrition

• Grain leather dries out over time and can crack, so regular oiling is essential. Use wax-based creams and balms that penetrate the leather and nourish it.

• Preparations such as nourishing creams or skin balms improve elasticity, give a delicate shine and protect against dryness.

Impregnation

• The next key step is impregnation, preferably using protective sprays that create a waterproof barrier and limit the penetration of dirt.

• Use the impregnation:

  • before first use,

  • regularly (e.g. every 3–6 months),

  • especially after cleaning.

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2. Suede and nubuck leather (nap/hair)

Suede and nubuck leather are more delicate than full-grain leather, with a "nap" that readily absorbs moisture and dirt. Caring for them requires special tools and products.

Cleaning

• Regular cleaning with a dry brush , remove dust and minor dirt with a special crepe rubber brush or bristles that gently lift the fluff.

• For tougher stains, you can use special erasers or foam for nubuck/suede , which does not damage the structure of the nap.

Impregnation

• Waterproofing is crucial here, as suede and nubuck leather are more susceptible to moisture. Use dedicated waterproofing sprays before first use and regularly (e.g., every season or more often with heavy use).

• The impregnation creates an invisible layer that protects against water, dirt and road salt.

Nutrition

• Because the nap has open pores, do not use creams or fats intended for grain leather , as they may permanently change the appearance of the suede/nubuck.

Maintaining the structure of the bristles

• After cleaning, you can comb the fluff with a special brush to restore its fluffy structure and natural appearance.

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3. Sheepskin / hair-on-hide

Leather with bristles requires even more delicate care:

• Daily or after use, remove dust and dirt with a soft, gentle brush to avoid pulling the bristles.

• If the hair is very dirty, you can comb it with a wide-toothed comb and then wipe it with a soft cloth.

• Use spray impregnators designed for leather with hair , which do not stick the hair together and do not burden the structure of the material.

• Avoid strong water and aggressive detergents, moisture can change the texture of the bristles and deform the leather.

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4. What tools and resources should I use?

Tools

• Soft bristle horsehair brushes for grain leather and general dusting.

• Nubuck/suede brushes, crepe rubber or bristle brushes for cleaning and restoring the nap.

• Cleaning erasers for spot removal of stubborn stains on nubuck/suede.

• Soft cotton cloths for applying creams and cleansing foam.

Care products

• Waterproofing sprays protect against moisture and dirt, use for both full-grain leather and suede/nubuck.

• Nourishing creams / skin balms for grain leather, increase elasticity and prevent cracking.

• Foams and products for nubuck/suede gently clean the nap without changing the texture.

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5. Practical tips

• Test each product on an inconspicuous area of ​​skin before applying it all over.

• Do not dry the leather near heat sources (radiators, hairdryers), it is best to let it dry naturally at room temperature.

• Frequent and regular cleaning and impregnation significantly extend the life of the leather.

Recommended products for the care of grain leather

Nourishing cream for grain leather

Product example: Protective Balm with Wax for Smooth Fingers

This nourishing cream for smooth skin regenerates the skin's structure, preventing dryness and cracking, and restoring elasticity. It contains natural waxes and oils that deeply penetrate the skin.

What to use:

• leather shoes

• bags and haberdashery

• full-grain leather jackets and accessories

How to use:
Apply a small amount of cream with a soft cloth, spread a thin layer, leave to absorb, and then polish with a brush.

Frequency: every 1–3 months or depending on intensity of use.

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Protective impregnation for smooth leather

Example product: Collonil Carbon Pro

The impregnation creates an invisible protective barrier against water, road salt, and dirt. It does not impede the leather's breathability.

Application:

• rain protection

• protection against stains

• extending the durability of the leather

How to use:
Spray evenly from a distance of 20–30 cm and allow to dry. Use only on a clean, dry surface.

Frequency: before first use and after each cleaning.

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Recommended products for suede and nubuck

Suede and nubuck cleaning foam

Product example: Quicky Foam Cleaner Shoelovers

The delicate foam removes dirt without damaging the nap. It doesn't cause fibers to stick together.

What to use:

• suede

• nubuck

• textile materials

How to use:
Apply foam to a brush or sponge and clean with gentle movements. Once dry, brush the surface with a suede brush.

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Suede brush

A specialized brush made of crepe rubber or mixed bristles restores the structure of the nap and removes dust.

Application:

• daily care

• lifting the bristles

• removing dry dirt

Tip: Always brush in one direction to avoid creasing the material.

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Impregnation for suede and nubuck

Example product: NANO PROTECTOR COCCINE IMPREGNAT

Protects delicate leather against moisture and stains, does not change color or structure.

How to use:
Spray evenly and allow to dry. Once dry, brush through.

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Recommended products for bristle leather

Gentle protective spray

The impregnation designed for leather with hair protects the material without weighing down the hair.

Application:

• hair-on-hide skin

• sheepskin and fur trim

Usage tips:

• apply a thin layer

• do not soak the material

• leave to dry naturally

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Soft bristle brush

The soft brush removes dust and detangles the hair without pulling it out.

For daily care:

• gentle combing

• refreshing the appearance

• felting prevention

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Universal care accessories

• cotton cloths for applying creams

• cleaning sponges

• spot erasers
  

You can find all cleaning and care products in our online and in-store store.