Leather care & preventing damage

 One of the most beautiful qualities of full-grain leather is that it develops character over time. Rather than wearing out, quality leather develops a rich patina that tells the story of how it has been used and loved.

Like any natural material, leather benefits from occasional care. With proper maintenance, your Hide Society piece is designed to last for many years.

For most leather goods, conditioning every 6–12 months is all that's needed, depending on how frequently the item is used and the environment it's exposed to.

If your leather begins to feel dry, dull, or loses some of its natural luster, it's time for a light conditioning.

We recommend using a high-quality leather balm or conditioner to nourish, protect, and help maintain the natural beauty of the leather.

You'll need:

• A soft horsehair or soft-bristle brush
• Leather balm or conditioner
• A clean, lint-free cloth (an old cotton t-shirt works well)

Remove dust and dirt by gently brushing the surface of the leather.

Using a clean cloth, apply a small amount of leather balm in light, circular motions. A little goes a long way.

Allow the conditioner to absorb into the leather. It's normal for the leather to temporarily darken before returning closer to its original color as it dries.

Once dry, lightly buff the surface with a clean cloth to restore its natural finish.

Leather is naturally porous. While occasional light moisture won't necessarily damage your bag, prolonged exposure to water can remove the leather's natural oils and lead to drying or stiffness over time.

If your bag becomes wet:

• Gently blot away excess moisture with a clean towel.
• Stuff the bag with paper to help it maintain its shape while drying.
• Allow it to air dry naturally at room temperature.
• Never use a hair dryer, heater, or direct sunlight to speed up the drying process.

Once completely dry, apply a light coat of leather conditioner to replenish lost moisture.

Extended exposure to direct sunlight can gradually deepen the leather's color and dry the surface over time. When not in use, store your leather goods in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

To help preserve the shape of your bag:

• Store it loosely stuffed with tissue or packing paper.
• Avoid storing leather in plastic bags or airtight containers.
• If available, store your bag inside its dust bag when not in use.

Every Hide Society piece is handcrafted from genuine full-grain leather. Natural markings, subtle color variations, and the patina that develops over time are all part of what makes your bag uniquely yours.

With just a few minutes of care every several months, your Hide Society piece will continue to age beautifully and accompany you for years to come.