Function

• Leather moisturizer replaces the oil stripped from leather during cleaning, and seals the surface to help prevent damage from water and dirt. Like human skin, leather has pores that allow air to pass through it. Over time, even if the leather is never cleaned, moisture evaporates from the pores and causes the leather to become dry. Dry leather is stiff, rough and prone to cracking.
  
  

Types

• Leather moisturizer comes in three types that are categorized by the type of oil they contain. Neatsfoot oil is a leather moisturizer made from fats in the feet and lower legs of cattle. Mink oil is rendered from the fatty layer just under the skin of minks. Lanolin is a waxy fat that comes from sheep's wool. Most commercial leather moisturizers contain one or more of these three animal fats and lanolin is the most commonly used.
  
  

Time Frame

• Full-grain leather should be cleaned and moisturized regularly, regardless of whether it is being actively used. Even in storage, leather will eventually dry out from evaporation. You should moisturize leather each time it is cleaned. Most leather products require cleaning and moisturization once every three months, or more often if they become soiled.
  
  

Application

• To use leather moisturizer, first clean the product using a cleaner designed for use on leather. Saddle soap is a popular choice because it strips less oil from the leather than other leather cleaners. Once the leather has been cleaned and is completely dry, apply enough leather moisturizer to leave a slight greasy film on the surface of the leather. Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub the product in thoroughly and to wipe away any unabsorbed leather moisturizer.
  
  

Considerations

• Although leather moisturizer is appropriate for most full-grain leather products, it should not be used on suede or nubuck. These leathers will lose their napped surface if moisturizer is applied. Some products claim to be both cleaners and moisturizers; unfortunately, most do not moisturize adequately. Always check the label on your leather products before choosing a leather moisturizer. Some treated leathers require special care to maintain their texture and appearance.