LEATHER CARE | HANDMADE LEATHER BAGS

OUR LEATHER

The majority of Sousa & Lobo handmade leather bags are Vachetta Leather.

Vachetta leather is a premium type of full-grain, vegetable-tanned cowhide that has a buttery soft appearance that can feel pleasantly good when brushed against your skin. Vachetta leather is near the top of the pecking order when it comes to luxury hides.

Vachetta leather, unlike others, is not treated with moisturizing oils and coated with a sealant that offers the leather some degree of protection from the elements, cleaners, and chemicals.

As it is untreated, it is susceptible to water and stains, and most things it comes into contact with including rapid aging and drying. But the good part is Vachetta leather can be darkened in the shade and develop into what we called a patina, a golden honey color that forms over time and regular use; this is what makes Vachetta leather unique. 

TIPS AND TRICKS TO CARE, CLEAN AND CONDITION YOUR SOUSA & LOBO VACHETTA HANDMADE LEATHER BAG.

Vachetta leather is very strong and durable, but it’s also sensitive to marking. Having said that, unlike cheaper leather which also gets scratched, these marks can be treated to blend into the overall look. This process, along with its color which naturally changes, is what creates the beautiful leather patina.

Follow these tips to keep your handmade vachetta leather bag in great condition: Do not place your vachetta leather bag on the floor, dirty surfaces, or near grease, stain. Prevention is your best bet. Do not use any leather soups, cleaners, or conditioners that contain lanolin. Do not rub denim transfer or other dry stains, simply remove it by using an uncolored or natural pencil eraser. Do not fold your vachetta leather in any way. Do not allow anything to sit on top of it.

Bear in mind that besides the regular sun exposure, natural grease, moisture and sweat from your hands will have a darkening effect on the Vachetta leather. Remember when not in use, store your Vachetta leather bag in a box or cotton dust bag, NOT plastic bags, the leather needs to breathe. If your Vachetta leather bag has straps, tuck it inside the bag especially when it has a chain or hardware on it to prevent it from accidentally scratching the leather. Use leather cleaner and leather conditioner, choose a conditioning containing natural waxes: they give a rich look and act as a barrier against dirt and moisture. Apply at least every 3-6 months to prevent it from drying up (use a lint free application cloth). 

If you have any other questions about vachetta leather, simply email us at support@sousa-lobo.com