How to clean and condition vintage leather bags, jackets and shoes

Step by step

1. 1

   Step 1: Empty and brush it

   Empty pockets, brush off dust and dirt, and vacuum the lining of bags.

2. 2

   Step 2: Deal with mould

   White or green bloom is mould. Wipe it off outside with a cloth dampened with a 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar or isopropyl alcohol. Let it dry fully.

3. 3

   Step 3: Clean it

   Work a little saddle soap into a damp cloth, clean in small circles and wipe off the residue with a clean damp cloth.

4. 4

   Step 4: Condition sparingly

   Rub in a small amount of conditioner with your fingers, which warms it so it soaks in. Leave it an hour, then buff. A second thin coat beats one heavy one.

5. 5

   Step 5: Avoid kitchen oils

   Olive and coconut oil go rancid and can attract mould. Stick to products made for leather.

6. 6

   Step 6: Store it

   Stuff bags and shoes with acid free tissue and keep them in cotton bags, not plastic.