Causes of leather hardening:
• Dehydration: Lack of moisture is the main cause of leather hardening. Leather, being a porous material, absorbs and loses moisture over time. If it is not kept properly hydrated, it can dry out and harden.
• Sun Exposure: The sun's UV rays can dry out and damage leather, causing it to harden. Prolonged exposure to the sun can discolor leather and make it more susceptible to brittleness.
• Lack of wear:Leather needs to be worn and flexed to maintain its flexibility. If a leather item is stored for a long period of time without being worn, it may harden.
• Chemicals:Some leather cleaning or treatment products may contain harsh chemicals that damage and harden the material. . It is important to choose specific leather care products that do not contain harmful ingredients.
Methods to soften cardboard leather:
1. Leather conditioner:
• Recommended: Using a good quality leather conditioner is the most effective way and sure to soften leather. Leather conditioners are specifically designed to rehydrate and nourish the material, restoring its suppleness and shine.
• How to use: Apply a generous amount of conditioner with a soft cloth to the leather, rubbing in circles. Make sure you cover all surfaces of the item. Let the product sit for 24 hours so that it is completely absorbed. Then, remove excess conditioner with a clean, dry cloth.
• Caution: Be sure to choose a conditioner appropriate for the type of leather you wish to treat. There are different types of conditioners for chrome tanned leather, vegetable tanned leather, etc. It is also important to read the manufacturer's instructions before using the product.
2. Neatsfoot oil:
• Effective: Neatsfoot oil is a natural oil that has been Used for centuries to soften leather. It is an oil rich in fatty acids that help restore the flexibility of the leather.
• How to use: Apply a small amount of neatsfoot oil with a soft cloth on the leather, rubbing it in. circles. Let the product sit for 24 hours so that it is completely absorbed. Then, remove excess oil with a clean, dry cloth.
• Caution: Neatsfoot oil may darken leather. If you don't want the color of the leather to change, you can try another method.
3. Vaseline:
• Inexpensive alternative: Vaseline is a cheap and easy-to-find product that can help soften the leather. Vaseline creates a protective barrier on the surface of the leather that helps retain moisture.
• How to use:Apply a small amount of Vaseline with a soft cloth to the leather, rubbing in circles. Let the product sit for 24 hours so that it is completely absorbed. Then, remove excess Vaseline with a clean, dry cloth.
• Caution: Vaseline can leave a greasy feeling on the leather. If you don't like this feeling, you can try another method.
4. Heat:
• Quick Fix: Heat can help soften leather temporarily, but it is not a permanent solution .
• How to use: You can use a hair dryer on low heat or a clothes iron on the leather. Be careful not to burn the leather, as this will damage it irreparably.
• Recommendation:It is recommended to use heat in conjunction with a leather conditioner for best results.
Additional Tips
• Avoid water: Water can damage the leather and make it stiffer. If your leather item gets wet, dry it quickly with a soft cloth.
• Clean the leather regularly: Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap will help remove dirt and grime. dirt that can dry out the leather.
• Store the leather in a cool, dry place: Direct sunlight and humidity can damage the leather. Store your leather items in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.
Additional home remedies
• Milk:Milk can help soften leather temporarily. Apply milk with a soft cloth to the leather and let it sit for 15 minutes before removing it with a clean cloth.
• White vinegar:White vinegar can help remove dirt and grime. dirt that may be hardening the leather. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a container and apply the mixture with a soft cloth to the leather. Let it sit for 15 minutes before removing it with a clean cloth.
Remember:
• It is important to test any method on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface of the leather.
• If the leather is very damaged, it is advisable to take it to a professional to repair it.
• For more severe cases of stiff leather, some experts suggest manual methods such as massaging or carefully folding the leather with the hands. This process can be slow and requires patience, but it can be very effective in softening specific areas that are particularly stiff.
• It is crucial to avoid using natural products such as olive or coconut oil, since although they can soften the leather in the short term, in the long term they can cause discoloration and deterioration of the material.
In conclusion, it is possible to restore the softness of cardboard leatherusing the correct products and techniques. We recommend following specific product instructions carefully and proceeding with caution to avoid damaging the material. With dedication and proper care, your leather items can not only regain their flexibility, but also prolong their durability and beauty.
At Curtidos Menacho, your trusted store for the leather sales, we understand the importance of keeping these valuable items in optimal condition. Therefore, we encourage you to apply the techniques described to revitalize your leather garments. We are sure that you will find this guide useful and effective for caring for your leather products