how to condition leather

Conditioning leather is less about pampering and more about preventing it from turning into a cracked, flaky mess. Start by cleaning the leather with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt—no harsh soaps, please. Then, apply a quality leather conditioner with a soft cloth, rubbing it in gently and evenly. Let it absorb for a few hours, and buff off any excess to avoid a sticky finish.

Repeat this ritual every 3-6 months unless your leather is in the outback sun, then maybe more often. Avoid using oils like motor oil or household creams; they’ll do more harm than good. For best results and to keep your leather looking less like a relic and more like a classic, consult the manufacturer’s care instructions.