Caring for Your Leather Emma Easter Handcrafted Bag

Every leather bag in my collection is crafted from either premium chrome-tanned leather or, occasionally, vegetable-tanned leather. These leathers develop unique character over time — here’s how to look after them properly.

General Care Tips (Both Leathers)

• Wipe Clean: Gently remove dust and surface dirt with a soft, dry cloth.

• Avoid Heat & Sunlight: Keep your bag out of direct heat and sunlight to prevent drying, brittleness, or uneven fading.

• Moisture: Don’t dry your bag with heat sources such as radiators or hairdryers — always let it dry naturally if it gets damp.

• Storage: Store your bag in its dust bag, in a cool, well-aired place. Light stuffing with acid-free tissue helps preserve its shape.

• Spot Test: Always test any cleaning or conditioning product on a hidden area first before applying more broadly.

Chrome-Tanned Leather (Luxury Softness & Durability)

• Low Maintenance: This leather type is soft, durable, and generally more resistant to wear.

• Cleaning: A microfiber cloth after light exposure to water is usually enough; more stubborn dirt can be gently removed with saddle soap.

• Avoid Oils: Oils can clog its pores and dull the natural sheen — it’s best to use a water-based conditioner or leather balm when needed.

• Wax for Protection: Occasionally applying a wax finish (such as beeswax or carnauba-based) helps boost water resistance and preserve the finish.

Vegetable-Tanned Leather (Character & Patina)

• Embrace the Patina: This leather is prized for its evolving patina — it darkens, softens, and becomes more beautiful over time.

• Water Sensitivity: Veg-tan leather is porous and easily stained by moisture — best to keep it dry or protect it with salves.

• Clean Gently: Use a damp cloth for light cleaning. For tougher stains, saddle soap is suitable — some leatherworkers suggest a diluted lime-juice solution for maintaining lighter tones.

• Conditioning: Regular “feeding” is key. Use oil-based conditioners (such as neatsfoot or mink oil), ideally containing at least 50% pure oil. Apply sparingly with a soft cloth or horsehair brush.

• Wax Finish (Optional): For added protection after oiling, a beeswax finish can help, but avoid over-waxing as this may cause uneven dark patches.

Conditioning Regimen & Timeline

Apply with a clean, lint-free cloth in circular motions. Allow it to absorb for 30–60 minutes, then gently buff away any excess.

✨ With regular, thoughtful care, your Emma Easter leather bag will remain supple, beautiful, and uniquely yours — aging gracefully with every adventure.

If you have any specific care questions or need product suggestions, feel free to contact me.

References

Indigo Shrimp. (2016). Care and conditioning of vegetable tanned leathers. Available at: https://indigoshrimp.wordpress.com/2016/08/21/care-and-conditioning-of-vegetable-tanned-leathers/ (Accessed: 26 August 2025).

Klum House. (n.d.). Guide to vegetable-tanned leather. Available at: https://klumhouse.com/blogs/blog/guide-to-vegetable-tanned-leather (Accessed: 26 August 2025).

Leathercraft Masterclass. (n.d.). Your ultimate guide to conditioning leather: 16 tips for preserving bags, cases, and accessories. Available at: https://www.leathercraftmasterclass.com/post/your-ultimate-guide-to-conditioning-leather-16-tips-for-preserving-bags-cases-and-accessories (Accessed: 26 August 2025).

Von Baer. (n.d.). Chrome tanned leather: what you need to know. Available at: https://vonbaer.com/blogs/blog/chrome-tanned-leather (Accessed: 26 August 2025).

Graflantz. (n.d.). How do I care for my veg tan leather products? Available at: https://help.graflantz.com/en-US/how-do-i-care-for-my-veg-tan-leather-products-30297 (Accessed: 26 August 2025).

Wikipedia. (n.d.). Conservation and restoration of leather objects. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conservation_and_restoration_of_leather_objects (Accessed: 26 August 2025).