Have you ever experienced that feeling of joy when you get a new leather item, quickly followed by the thought, "I'm scared it'll get scratched," making you overly cautious?
It's natural to worry that even a small scratch will stand out, especially with simple designs or items that highlight the natural texture of the leather.
However, leather is much more durable than you might think, and it's a material that deepens in character the more you use it every day. Rather than keeping it carefully tucked away, leather responds best when used frequently in your daily life.
In this blog post, we'll discuss a mindset for enjoying leather goods casually, essential points to be aware of, and our "pre-care service" to help you start using your leather items in the best possible condition.
If you have concerns about handling leather or purchasing new leather products as the rainy season and summer approach, please read on.
Leather is a "Changing" Material
The crisp texture of a new leather product has its own unique charm.
It's natural to want to keep it clean and free from scratches or stains.
However, understanding that leather goods are fundamentally a "material whose character changes" might shift your perspective.
With each touch, leather absorbs just the right amount of oil, and friction gradually creates a sheen, developing a unique character that belongs only to its user. This process is called "aging (patina)". Aging occurs through the accumulation of small scuffs and scratches.
Leather products are not crafts to be displayed, but tools to be used every day. And the charm of leather is only truly brought out through use.
What's important is not to maintain a perfect condition, but to enjoy the changes themselves as you continue to use it.
How Leather Changes with "Daily Use"
The more frequently leather is touched, the faster and richer its aging progresses. That's why leather goods like wallets, key cases, and card cases, which you handle every day, are best suited for enjoying this transformation.
With prolonged use, you'll observe changes such as:
- The color gradually deepens, achieving a more subdued tone.
- A natural sheen develops on the surface, and it acquires a texture that feels smooth and adhesive to the touch.
- Corners and folds conform to your hand, settling into a shape that suits your personal usage.
These changes are the "joy of nurturing" that only those who use their items daily can experience. Rather than being complete at the time of purchase, it's something you will complete over time. Looking at it this way, even the first small scratch won't bother you.
▶︎Related article: "What is Leather Aging? Introducing the Patina of Buttero, Cordovan, and Bridle Leather"
Reasons Not to Be Overly Anxious
Those new to leather products often perceive them as difficult to handle, but in reality, leather care is quite simple.
Munekawa uses oil-rich leathers, such as Buttero, as its main material. These leathers naturally develop a deeper character without requiring special treatment.
Small scratches transform into character over time, and even if it gets a little wet, in most cases, it can be used without issue if you wipe it immediately and let it dry.
Even Munekawa's production staff use their own wallets and card holders casually every day. Relax and start incorporating them into your daily life.
▶︎Related article: "5 Common Misconceptions in Leather Product Care and Correct Methods"
What You Should Know Before First Use
While it's fine to use it casually, there are a few points you should know to enjoy it comfortably for a long time. None of them are difficult. Just keep them in mind as small tips.
When it gets wet
Don't panic and rub it hard; gently blot the water drops with a dry, soft cloth. Afterward, let it air dry naturally in a well-ventilated shaded area. Rubbing can spread stains or damage the surface, so simply remembering to "blot and dry" will make a big difference in the outcome.
When drying
Avoid trying to dry it quickly with a hairdryer's hot air or by placing it in direct sunlight. Rapid drying can strip the leather of its moisture and oils, causing it to harden or crack. While it takes longer, slowly drying it at room temperature in a well-ventilated area will ultimately prevent damage to the leather.
When storing
If you won't be using it for a while, store it away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and humidity. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading, and humid conditions can lead to mold. It's best to store it in a breathable cloth bag.
Color transfer
When first using it, if it rubs against dark denim or clothing for a long time, the color might transfer to the leather, or vice versa. This is especially noticeable with light-colored leather, so it's a good idea to be a little mindful of where you put it or what items you pair it with when it's new. As it gets used and the color settles, it will gradually become less of a concern.
▶︎Related article: "Nurturing Leather, Basic Care - A Leather Care Beginner's Guide from First Use to Regular Maintenance"
▶︎Related article: "Water Stains and Scratches on Leather"
For Those Who Want to Start in the Best Possible Condition
For those who say, "If I'm going to get one, I want to start with it in the best possible condition," Munekawa's pre-care service is an option.
Pre-care refers to the maintenance performed on a leather product before you start using it.
By moisturizing the leather surface with specialized care products and softening it, we enhance its durability and beauty, making it easier for the leather's natural aging process to emerge.
Simply select it as an option when placing your order, and our production staff will apply the care before delivering the product to you.
The rainy season begins early next month. For those who want to minimize water stains during this time when getting wet is more frequent, pre-care can be a strong safeguard. If you're interested, please check out the pre-care details page.
▶︎Related article: "Keep Leather Products Beautiful Longer: Explaining the Points and Benefits of "Pre-care" and "After-care""
▶︎Related article: "The Best Time is After the Rainy Season! Thorough Maintenance Tips for Leather Wallets to Survive the Summer"
▶︎Click here for details on our pre-care service
Summary
Rather than being overly cautious with leather goods, the most enjoyable way to use them is to simply start incorporating them naturally into your daily life.
The more you use it, the more the leather will grow and develop its own unique character. Don't worry excessively about small scratches or minor wetness; just pay a little attention to water exposure, drying, storage, and color transfer, and you can enjoy it for a long time without stress.
Relax and easily start your life with leather. The more you use it, the more it will become an irreplaceable item.
If you have any concerns after you start using it, or if you're unsure about how to care for it, please don't hesitate to contact us.
At our direct store in Daikokucho, Osaka, our production staff can offer advice and consultations on care while examining the condition of your leather. If visiting us in person is difficult, we always welcome inquiries by email or phone.
▶︎Direct Store Information: "Munekawa Direct Store (Daikokucho, Osaka)"
▶︎Contact Us: "Inquiries about products and repair consultations here"
