Most people consider leather an investment, so when they discover that it’s been damaged, the first question on their mind is, “Can it be fixed?” The good news is that some leather damage can be fully reversed, but unfortunately, not all of it can.

(If you’re interested in restoring antique leather, please see our article here.)

Cracking and Flaking (Red Rot and Dry Rot)

Leather that has cracking and flaking, (also known as Red Rot or Dry Rot) is due to loss of lubricity (the soft, supple feel that is there when leather is conditioned). Unfortunately, once the leather is cracked, there is no way to repair those areas and fix the broken fibers.

Treatment of this type of leather damage will help stop the deterioration process and prevent further damage to your leather. However, your item will sadly never be as delightful as it once was.

That type of permanent leather damage is why it’s so important to condition leather regularly over time, allowing you to avoid this situation completely.

Mold

It’s common for us to get a call from a customer who wrapped their leather item in plastic for safekeeping only to later discover leather damage in the form of mold. Other times, leather is unintentionally left in a damp environment that encourages mold growth.

Either way, there is hope for your leather.

To get rid of leather damage due to mold, simply move your leather to a dry place and give it time to dry completely. Avoid putting it near a heat source or in direct sunlight as both of these can damage leather.

Once your leather item is dry, put on a protective mask (so you don’t breathe in the mold being brushed into the air) and use a cloth or soft bristle brush to wipe off the mold. Working outside or using a vacuum to suck up the spores as you work helps contain the spores. DO NOT use the vacuum directly on the leather as that can damage the leather.

When your leather is once again mold-free, condition it with Pecard to condition, preserve, and protect it.

A White Film

While we’re always sad when a customer calls us and shares that they have experienced leather damage, it’s a relief to hear them tell us, “There’s a white film on it.”

The white film that sometimes forms on leather isn’t a sign of damage!

When the pores on a piece of leather contract, it can squeeze oils and fats out and leave a white film on the surface.

If your leather has a white film, simply wipe it off with a lint-free cloth, and voila, no more leather damage.

If you have questions about Pecard products, a damaged leather item, or leather care, please visit our site www.pecard.com, call us call (1-800-467-5056), or send an email (info@pecard.com). We’re here to help!