PROPER CARE OF LEATHER AND SUEDE BEGINS AT HOME

The following information will help you get the maximum life from your garments.

Wear and Care
Wear a scarf to protect the collar area from perspiration and body oils.
If the garment gets wet, let it air-dry away from heat.
Store in a cool, ventilated area. Leather can dry out if exposed to dry heat or mildew if stored in a hot, humid environment. DO NOT store leather in a plastic bag.

If staining occurs, take the garment to a professional suede and leather cleaner as soon as possible.

Cleaning Your Leather
When you take your leather or suede garments to a professional cleaner, it is helpful if you can provide any care information that came with the garment. Be sure to point out any stains. Stains that are old and set cannot always be removed safely. All matching pieces should be cleaned at the same time.

What to Expect After Cleaning
Although cleaning technologies for leather and suede are constantly improving, some change of appearance almost always will result from the cleaning process.
Leather garments are made from skins taken from various parts of the animal and usually from several different animals, which may result in a variance in texture, weight, and color uniformity. Some leathers are also dyed various colors - did you ever see a purple cow? These variations may show up as:
" Loss of Color - slight variance in depth of color
" Loss of Oils - may affect the feel of the garment
" Wrinkles, Scar Tissue - cleaning may remove some oils and cause these natural defects to appear
" Shading from Adhesives - glues may seep through the leather and cause shaded areas
" Trim Bleeding and Transfer - leather buttons and piping on fabric items may cause color bleeding onto the adjacent fabric

A leather or suede garment is a major investment, so it is important to choose it carefully and care for it wisely.
" Buy from a reputable retailer
" Look for careful matching of color and texture between portions of the garment
" Avoid a snug fit. Hides are stretched during tanning and some relaxation can be expected in wear and cleaning
" Read, save and follow any care information that comes with the garment