Select the perfect conditioner for your leather

LEATHER POLISH VS. CONDITIONER: WHAT YOUR LEATHER REALLY NEEDS

Leather has always been timeless, elegant, durable, and luxurious. But to keep it looking its best, proper care is essential. Two key products often used in maintaining leather are Leather Polish and Leather conditioner. While they may sound similar, they serve very different purposes.

Leather is just like skin where it can dry out, crack, and lose its softness if neglected. That’s where leather conditioner comes in. Leather conditioning is the post cleaning care of the leather which is extremely crucial to preserve it.

Let’s First see what actually leather conditioners are?

Leather conditioner can be any natural or commercial substance which is used for nourishing the fibers of leather. It may consist of different natural oils, waxes or other conditioning agents. These conditioners are found in crème as well as liquid forms. Leather conditioner works the same way as the moisturizers work for our skin. Just think, what will happen to your skin if you go on high altitudes in the mountainous region and you do not moisturize your skin. In just a few days  your skin will be dry, rough and patchy.

Similar is the case with the leather, when you do not condition it , it will become brittle and starts to crack. Here, is when the leather conditioner is used which penetrates deep into the leather to replenish natural oils and keeps leather supple, soft, and flexible. Leather conditioning  makes the fibre of your leather stronger and increases its durability.

WHEN TO CONDITION THE LEATHER?

 The climate affects the leather adversely. It dries out the leather making it flaky and cracked over time. With the timely use of Boshek Leather care this can be prevented and simultaneously maintain the natural color and texture of the leather.

Leather conditioner can be used on new leather to preserve it’s freshness. The leather that is used on everyday basis like Bags, wallets, jackets, belts first need to be cleaned with a clean microfiber cloth and then condition it with a small amount of leather conditioner and spread evenly. Weekly conditioning of the leather is never recommended rather, it should always be done every few months. High Quality leather care products like Boshek Leather Care are well formulated and absorb easily without leaving any dark patches and uneven coloring.

Now, Let’s See What is Leather Polish and how it works for your leather.

 Leather Polish is a surface level treatment which is used to enhance the shine, improve appearance and protect the outer finish of your leather. It never gives nourishment to your leather, rather, it is only meant for the appearance. It adds shine or finishing touch to your accessories or shoes.

IS POLISHING NECESSARY?

Polishing the leather in other words can put as applying makeup to your skin. It adds luminous glow and conceals minor imperfections, all while giving you a refined finish. Therefore, Whenever, you are going for the events or formal meetings where you want a sharp finish you can definitely choose to polish your leather. But it is always recommended to first condition your leather with good leather care product and let it sit for sometime and then you polish it. This will help in restoring shine and mask small scuffs or marks on the leather. However, if you have been conditioning you leather on regular basis with Boshek Leather Care or any good Leather Care, you’ll never feel the need to polish it. 

Things to Do Before Conditioning Your Leather

Always clean your leather properly. Next, if your leather product has some brooches or metal embellishments, it is always advisable to remove them or cover them with cotton or any soft cloth because leather conditioner can either discolor or damage them.                                         

Always do a Spot Test

Instead of randomly applying conditioner anywhere on the bag, choose a part that is less visible and do a spot test. Apply conditioner, let it dry and check whether the bag is fine or not. If you see discoloration, don’t use the product further. 

Resting Time after conditioning is Must

Always apply the conditioner in small sections and gradually apply to the whole product. Do not splurge too much, a thin coat of conditioner will serve the purpose. Gently rub the surface in circular motion with slight pressure.  After this, never forget to leave your leather product overnight so that it can get air dry. 

HOW IS LEATHER BALM AND WAX DIFFERENT FROM LEATHER CONDITIONER?

Leather Balm is generally confused with Leather conditioner but they are not the same. Leather Balm contains animal oils that can generally darken the leather permanently. Applying too much balm attracts dust , dirt and lint making the surface look dirty quickly.

IS LEATHER WAX BETTER THAN BALM?

Wax , on the other hand, creates plastic like, over shinny look. It seals the surface which blocks the ability of the leather to breathe naturally. Wax traps the moisture, leading to damp smell in humid climates.

TO SUM UP

Using a good quality Leather Conditioner Like Boshek Leather Care nourishes and moisturizes the leather unlike any other. It keeps the leather soft, flexible and prevents cracking.

Leather Polish, on the other hand, will only enhance the shine and appearance but will not protect or nourish deeply like conditioner.

FAQ’s 

Q. Can all types of leather be polished ?

A. No, Leather Polish is only suitable for smooth, finished leather , formal shoes, belts and Bags. You should always avoid polishing Suede or Nubuck, Matte or unfinished leather.

Q. Can Shoe Polish be used on leather bags and belts ?

A. Shoe polish can sometimes be too strong or pigmented for delicate leather accessories. Therefore, always opt for neutral or clear polish.

Q. Does leather conditioner makes leather products sticky?

A. No, a good quality leather conditioner will get absorbed in the product completely. So, if you will not use extra conditioner (more than recommended quantity) it will not make your product sticky.

Q. Can leather conditioner be used on faux leather?

A.  Faux leather, also known as fake leather and leatherette does not have pores. Hence, the leather conditioner will not be absorbed into faux leather. You can use a PVC moisturizer instead of a pure leather conditioner on faux leather.