looking after your alfie product

Leather care

Treated well your alfie douglas products should last a lifetime. We only use premium grade leathers and the majority are vegetable tanned. Some mineral tanning processes are used to achieve the lighter colours. In every case the leathers are chosen for their unique characteristics, beauty and quality. Every single piece of our leather is unique, it has its own grain, structure and character.

Our leathers age gently over time, colours naturally change and darken and each piece develops a distinct and unique character. Here are a few tips to keep your items looking at their best...

Breaking-in period

Leather is a natural product and after the tanning process some pieces may be slightly stiff to start with. The leather straps will soften up after a few weeks depending on frequency of use. Occasionally treat with a leather conditioner to maintain suppleness. 

Colour Transfer

With all naturally dyed products there is a risk of pigment rubbing off the straps and bag leather when they are new, be careful and avoid wearing light coloured clothing for the first few weeks. We suggest rubbing with a clean dry cloth to check periodically. You can treat the leather with a neutral leather cream if the colour transfer persists. Also be careful not to let pigment from dark coloured clothing such as denim) transfer to your bag during prolonged contact.

Stretching

Do not overfill a bag. Leather stretches out, but not back and it will never really return to its original state. If you stretch a leather bag when wet or very humid, it will move even faster. Carry just the right amount and this takes care of itself. 

Cleaning

Just use a damp cloth. Don't use any soaps or foreign substances. Fresh stains such as spilled liquids or food should be cleaned up immediately. Keep cosmetic products and pens in pouches inside the bag to avoid leaks.

Weather

Try not to expose your product to extreme weather conditions, sun and rain in particular as direct heat or sunlight over prolonged periods may cause the leather to crack and colour to fade unevenly. If leather gets too wet, dry it slowly at room temperature and retain its original shape.

Conditioning

Regular conditioning will prevent the leather from drying out and keep it supple, particularly if it has been exposed to long periods of hot sun or dampness. Always apply product to the cloth first rather than directly onto the leather and always test a small discreet area. 

Marks and scratches

Rub with a little pressure from your finger which replaces the natural oils. Ink marks, grease and oil stains are usually not removable and should be left alone or taken to a professional cleaner. 

Hardware

Nickel plated items will just need buffing up occasionally with a dry cloth. Brass and copper plated items can be polished with a metal cleaner. Mask off the leather areas around the fittings as metal cleaner will cause permanent damage. 

Storage

Keep the cotton bag your product came in for storage. To prevent mildew, never use a plastic bag and store in a cool, dry place with air flow. If storing for a long period, undo strap buckles, fill with stuffing (such as paper or tissue) to help keep shape and prevent wrinkles and cracks.