Leather Care Guide
How to clean, condition and protect your leather so it ages beautifully.
Leather Care, Made Simple
Our Italian vegetable tanned leather is made to be carried for decades, gaining character with every journey. A few minutes of care every three months keeps it supple, protected and developing a rich patina.
Everything you need is in our five-piece Leather Care Kit, formulated specifically for James Redwood leather.
Leather Care Kit
Leather Care Kit
“Pieces that age like a fine wine—gaining more character over time.”
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Add-ons
Step 1: Clean
Our all-natural Leather Cleaner lifts accumulated dirt and everyday grime from the surface without relying on harsh cleaning agents.
Simply spray directly onto the leather, gently work the surface with the included horsehair brush and allow it to dry. An essential first step in preserving the leather’s natural character and preparing it for conditioning.
Tip: wash your hands before you start, as natural oils from your skin transfer easily to leather.
Step 2: Condition
Formulated specifically for our Italian vegetable tanned leather, our all-natural Leather Conditioner helps replenish essential oils, maintaining the leather’s suppleness and protecting against dryness over time.
Apply a small amount to the included microfiber cloth, massage gently into the leather using circular motions and allow it to dry. Regular conditioning helps preserve the rich character and promote the patina that makes each piece uniquely yours.
Step 3: Protect
Our all-natural Waterproofing Spray creates a water-resistant barrier to help protect your leather from rain and everyday moisture, without altering its natural colour or finish.
Spray evenly across the surface, wipe away any areas of excess product and allow to dry before applying a second coat. Repeat the full clean, condition and protect routine every three months.
The Right Tools for the Job
A natural horsehair brush gently works the cleaner across the leather, helping lift dirt without the harsh abrasion of stiffer synthetic brushes.
The soft microfiber cloth gives you controlled application of conditioner and helps remove excess product during waterproofing. Both are chosen to complement the natural qualities of our Italian vegetable tanned leather.
Leather Care Questions
How often should I care for my leather?
We recommend a complete clean, condition and protect routine every three months. Between treatments, a quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth keeps everyday dust and dirt from building up, inside and out.
Can I use the kit on all my James Redwood pieces?
Yes. The kit is specially formulated for our Italian vegetable tanned leather, and we recommend it for all our leather goods, from briefcases and backpacks to wallets and cardholders.
Can I use the kit on other leather goods?
Yes. Because it’s an all-natural formula, the kit works beautifully on all leather goods. It is specifically formulated for vegetable tanned, aniline dyed leather like ours, so that’s where it truly shines. For leather from other makers, we suggest trying it on a small, hidden area first.
Will the kit change the colour of my leather?
No. The Waterproofing Spray provides water resistance without altering the leather’s natural colour or finish, and the cleaner and conditioner are all-natural formulas made for our Italian vegetable tanned leather.
What should I do if my bag gets wet?
Blot away moisture with a clean, dry cloth as quickly as you can, then let the bag air dry completely. Never use a hairdryer or other heat source to speed things up, as heat can damage the leather. Stuffing the bag with paper helps it keep its shape and absorbs moisture from the inside.
Once it’s dry, a coat of Waterproofing Spray helps protect it next time.
What should I avoid?
Avoid chemical cleaners, direct heat and long periods in direct sunlight.
How should I store my bag when I’m not using it?
Keep it in its James Redwood dust bag, somewhere cool and dry and away from direct sunlight. The dust bag lets the leather breathe while protecting it from dust and scratches, so avoid plastic bags or airtight containers. Filling it lightly with paper helps it hold its shape.
What’s in the kit?
- All-Natural Leather Cleaner (100ml / 3.4 fl oz)
- All-Natural Leather Conditioner (100ml / 3.4 fl oz)
- All-Natural Waterproofing Spray (100ml / 3.4 fl oz)
- Natural horsehair cleaning brush
- Soft microfiber cleaning and application cloth
Each bottle includes clear application instructions. Shop the Leather Care Kit.
Does the kit make a good gift?
It does. Presented in a signature James Redwood box, it’s a thoughtful addition to any James Redwood purchase and a practical gift for anyone who appreciates fine leather goods.
What should I do about scratches?
Light scuffs on full grain, vegetable tanned leather can often be buffed away with a warm fingertip or a soft cloth, as the natural oils and waxes work back into the mark. Deeper marks soften over time with regular conditioning and become part of your bag’s character.
What if I spill something on my bag?
Blot it straight away with a clean, dry cloth. Don’t rub, and never use a hairdryer or radiator to speed things up. Let the leather dry naturally at room temperature, then apply a little conditioner to restore its suppleness.
Can hand cream, sanitiser or perfume affect the leather?
They can. Aniline leather is open and natural, so oils and alcohol can leave marks. Let lotions, sanitiser and fragrance dry fully on your skin before handling your bag.
Is it okay to overfill my bag?
We’d avoid it. Packing a bag well beyond its natural shape stretches the leather and puts strain on the seams and zips. Carry what it was designed for and it will keep its shape for years.
What is patina, and will my bag change over time?
Yes, and that’s the beauty of full grain leather. With use, your bag develops a patina: the colour becomes richer and the surface takes on a soft, lived-in lustre. No two bags age the same way, so yours becomes uniquely yours.
Considered Down to the Presentation
Presented together in a signature James Redwood box, the five components form a complete, coordinated leather care collection.
A thoughtful addition to any James Redwood purchase and a practical gift for anyone who appreciates fine leather goods.
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