Leather is a durable and timeless material used in many commercial and residential furnishings, from car seats to boat upholstery and office furniture. But like any natural material, leather can be affected by seasonal changes. Fortunately, with the right care and attention, you can protect your leather goods from the elements and extend their lifespan.
The Effects of Humidity on Leather
Leather naturally absorbs moisture from the air, which can cause it to swell, soften, and lose its shape in high-humidity environments. Over time, this can lead to mildew or mold growth, especially in places like boat interiors, RV upholstery, and car seats, where moisture exposure is common.
To avoid this, keep your leather items in a well-ventilated space with controlled humidity. Leather care in different seasons involves using dehumidifiers or air conditioning to maintain the right conditions. For booths or car seats, wipe down surfaces with a dry cloth regularly to prevent moisture buildup. Applying a leather conditioner with mildew inhibitors will also help protect the leather and keep it in good condition.
Protecting Leather in Cold Weather
Cold weather can be just as damaging to leather as heat or humidity. In winter, the dry air and temperature fluctuations can cause leather to become brittle and crack. When leather becomes too dry, it loses its natural oils, which are necessary to keep the material supple and flexible. This is especially true for leather furniture, automotive seats, and boat upholstery that are exposed to extreme cold.
The best way to go about protecting leather from weather changes in cold months is to make regular conditioning a habit. Leather conditioner replenishes the oils that the material loses due to dryness, keeping it soft and flexible. Make sure to apply a high-quality leather conditioner every few months, especially during colder seasons, to prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.
When possible, keep your leather items out of direct contact with cold drafts, and avoid placing them next to heaters or radiators that can further dry them out.
Summer Heat and Leather Damage
On the flip side, summer heat can also be a major threat to leather. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause leather to fade, crack, and even shrink. This is especially true for leather seats in vehicles and furniture that sit in direct sunlight for extended periods. UV rays from the sun are the leading cause of fading and cracking in leather, and the heat can also dry out the natural oils in the material, causing it to lose its softness and flexibility.
To protect your leather from the seasonal effects on leather goods in summer, try to keep your leather items out of direct sunlight when possible. For automotive leather, consider using UV-protectant sprays or seat covers to shield the seats from harmful rays.
When it comes to furniture, keep your leather couches or chairs away from windows or use window treatments to block out direct sunlight. It’s also important to clean your leather thoroughly after exposure to the elements and apply a leather conditioner to keep it from drying out.
Best Practices for Year-Round Leather Care
Here are some tips for leather care in different seasons that will help you maintain your leather items year-round:
- Regular Cleaning: Dust leather weekly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dirt buildup. For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap and dry immediately to prevent water absorption.
- Conditioning: Apply a leather conditioner every few months to replenish oils and prevent cracking, especially during weather changes. Use a conditioner suited to your leather type to maintain flexibility.
- Proper Ventilation: Store leather items in a well-ventilated space to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to mildew or mold growth.
- Protection from the Elements: Protect leather from harsh weather conditions like sun, rain, or snow. Use protective covers or UV-blocking sprays for extra defense.
Storing Leather Goods Properly
Proper storage plays an essential role in keeping your leather items in top condition. Whether it’s during the off-season or when not in use, following best practices for storing leather can prevent unnecessary damage. For leather furniture, cover it with breathable fabric covers to shield it from dust, dirt, and potential moisture. Avoid using plastic covers, as they can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
For leather car seats, boat upholstery, and other items, store them in a dry, climate-controlled environment when not in use. If possible, avoid leaving leather goods in extreme temperatures for long periods, such as in hot cars or cold basements.
Keep Your Leather Looking Brand New Every Season
Taking care of your leather goods during changing seasons doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple tips and being proactive about conditioning, cleaning, and protecting your leather, you can keep your furniture, car seats, and other leather items looking great all year long.
At Creative Colors International, we specialize in repair and restoration services for leather items that need some TLC. If your leather goods have already suffered from the elements, don’t wait for further damage – contact us today!
Photo credit: Petar Djordjevic
