Leather is a sturdy and beautiful material, but it’s also prone to cracking if not properly taken care of. Luckily, part of genuine leather’s uniqueness is derived from its natural ability to age gracefully. No two leather bags will ever be alike because each will develop a unique patina over time. While the natural creases and crevices that develop give your vintage leather bag character, you may want to learn how to stop a leather bag from cracking prematurely. Doing so will help prolong its lifespan and keep it looking its best.

Repair Cracking Leather Bag

If your bag has already started to crack, here are a few things that you can do to repair it. Follow the instructions on the relevant packages for best results.

Fine Leather Cracks

There are products available to repair fine leather cracks, such as:

• cracked leather repair compound
• mink oil
• neatsfoot oil
• leather conditioners

However, consider that part of the uniqueness and individuality of a leather bag is the fine cracks that develop over time. You may not want to repair them, but rather let them add to your leather bag’s character.

Deep Leather Cracks

Leather sealant can be found at most hardware stores. It will help to create a barrier between the leather and the elements, which will help to keep it from cracking again.

Leather filler can be used to fill in any cracks or holes that have already formed, as well as to prevent future cracking. Leather filler is available in many different colors, so it can be matched to the color of your leather bag. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.

Leather dye can be used to repair deep leather cracks, especially if the interior of a crack is lighter in color than the outside. However, a combination of leather filler and leather dye is best for deep cracks rather than the dye on its own.

How to Stop a Leather Bag from Cracking: Maintain Leather Bag Integrity

Storing

Store your vintage leather bag in a cool, dry place when not in use. Excessive heat and humidity can cause the leather to dry out and crack. If possible, put it in a breathable storage bag or box to prevent mold or mildew buildup. If your leather bag is not going to be used for a while, we recommend storing it in bubble wrap for safety, security, and protection from moisture.

Protecting

Avoid getting your leather bag wet if possible. Moisture is considered the worst enemy of genuine leather products because it causes the material to swell, which leads to cracking. The moisture gets trapped inside the leather, which causes it to expand and contract as the temperature and humidity levels change.

If your bag does get wet, don’t panic. Just remove any excess water with a clean, dry cloth and stuff the bag with newspaper to help it retain its shape as it dries. Allow the bag to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight, which can further damage the leather. Once it’s completely dry, apply a conditioner designed specifically for leather to help keep it supple.

Cleaning

When cleaning your vintage leather bag, use only products that are specifically designed for cleaning leather. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, as these can damage the leather. Instead, opt for a gentle, soap-free cleanser.

Always clean your bag with a damp cloth, never submerge it in water. Be very gentle when cleaning it – you don’t want to damage the leather. After cleaning, dry off any excess water with a soft cloth to prevent water spots and leave the leather bag to air dry somewhere out of direct sunlight.

Conditioning

Conditioning your leather bag frequently will help keep the leather supple and keep a leather bag from cracking and drying out. Just as your skin needs moisturizer to stay supple, so does leather. Use a quality leather conditioner at least once a month, or more often if the bag is exposed to harsh conditions like sunlight or heat.

Be sure to test the conditioner on a small area first to make sure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or stains. A quality leather conditioner will stop a leather bag from cracking, keep leather bag from cracking further, and extend the life of your bag.

Avoid Excessive Heat

Another way to keep a leather bag from cracking is to avoid exposing it to excessive heat or direct sunlight. too much heat can cause the leather to dry out and crack, so always store your bag in a cool, dry place. If you’re using your bag in hot weather, try to keep it out of direct sunlight as much as possible.

If you follow these recommendations, you have the perfect recipe for how to stop a leather bag from cracking and drying out. But even with the best care, leather is a natural material that will age over time. So, enjoy your leather bag, and don’t worry too much if it develops a few cracks – it just adds character, style, and uniqueness!