How to Care for Cow Hide Leather

Cowhide leather love seat

Caring for cowhide leather is the same whether it is a sofa or your prized leather jacket. Giving your leather proper care keeps it looking great and supple and adds years of usefulness. Leather that is tanned using the natural process developed over hundreds of years uses the bark of the hickory, oak and sumac trees and is considered a higher quality leather than leather tanned with chemicals. Cowhide leather tanned by the natural process is softer and generally used for luggage and handbags. All cowhide leather can be cared for using these methods.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloths Moisturizing soap Alcohol Water Cornstarch

Instructions

1. 

   Care for your cowhide leather by removing stains and winter salt as soon as possible. Keep leather out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Store leather clothing and handbags in cloth bags (not plastic) to allow the leather to breathe.

2. Clean leather gently with a moisturizing soap such as Dove. Dampen a microfiber cloth with water and clean in small areas using a circular motion. Buff the cleaned areas with a dry soft cloth. Allow to air dry out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.

3. 

   Apply a solution of alcohol and water to clean mildew stains. Test on a hidden area first to be sure this solution does not change the color or finish of the leather. Wipe with a soft damp cloth and allow to air dry. Apply leather conditioner when dry to maintain appearance and softness.

4. Remove oil-based stains by applying a sprinkling of corn starch and allowing to sit overnight. Brush the cornstarch off and wipe with a soft damp cloth. Reapply if necessary.

5. 

   Clean shoes or apparel that have salt stains with a solution of three parts vinegar and one part water. This may take more than one cleaning to completely remove. Allow the leather item to air dry. Use shoe trees or stuff with newspaper to help retain their shape while drying. Lay apparel flat away from heat sources and allow to dry. Apply a conditioner designed for leather when thoroughly dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Attend to stains as quickly as possible.

• Never spray perfume or hairspray near your leather, as it can harm the finish.

References

• Tips for cleaning cowhide leather