How to look after full-grain leather

Full-grain leather is the top layer of the hide with the grain left intact. That is why it marks, darkens and softens rather than staying factory-uniform. Most of what people call damage in the first year is actually patina, and it is the reason the material is worth paying for.

Four habits

1. Wipe, do not scrub

Dust is abrasive. A dry microfibre cloth once a week removes it before it works into the grain. If something spills, blot immediately with a dry cloth — water on full-grain leather is fine in small amounts, but rubbing while wet lifts the finish.

2. Condition twice a year, not monthly

A thin layer of neutral conditioner in spring and autumn is enough. More frequent conditioning makes the leather supple to the point of floppiness and darkens lighter colours. Avoid silicone-based polishes entirely: they seal the grain and stop the leather breathing.

3. Dry slowly, never on a radiator

If a bag gets soaked, empty it, stuff it with newspaper to hold its shape, and leave it at room temperature away from direct heat. Radiators and hairdryers shrink the leather and crack the finish at the folds.

4. Store it filled, not flattened

Keep the dust bag. Stuff the bag loosely with tissue so the sides do not crease, and stand it upright rather than hanging it by a strap for months. Straps stretch; leather does not spring back.

What is not your fault

Scratches, colour deepening, slight softening of structure and a shine at the handles are normal. Seam failure, hardware breakage and splitting at the fold are not — those are covered by our 12-month warranty.

If you are not sure

Send us a photograph. We would rather tell you it is normal than have you buy a product you do not need.