How to Clean Alligator Skin Purses and Shoes

Cleaning alligator leather is a simple process, but you must be careful not to use the wrong kinds of products on the alligator skin products, as they may harm it. Alligator leather must always be kept dry and out of excessive heat, and direct sunlight. With a little care and some attention your alligator skin purse and shoes will last a long time.

Things You'll Need

• Alligator leather conditioner
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Soak a soft cloth in water and wring out until it is only damp. Wipe the alligator skin purse down with the damp cloth. Do this carefully, to avoid catching the leather on the cloth and causing any damage. Alligator leather can be fragile in places, especially when it has aged, so be careful.

2. Wipe any excess moisture off of the alligator leather with a dry cloth, until the leather is completely dry. Don't let any moisture sit on the alligator leather, as this will dry out the leather and eventually cause damage.

3. Apply alligator skin leather conditioner with a soft cloth. Leather conditioner can be purchased from a local exotic leather store or online. Leather conditioner should be applied to alligator products at least two times a year to preserve the oils of the leather and keep the leather from becoming dry and cracked.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use household chemicals such as alcohol or other solvents to clean leather products.

• Do not use leather polishing products intended for regular leather on alligator leather.

• Do not use shoe polish products on alligator leather.

References

• Caring for Alligator Leather
• Care for Alligator, Crocodile & Other Exotic Leathers

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish