Care Guide
Care Guide
Nurturing your leather companion through time
Full-grain leather is a living material that responds to its environment and your touch. With thoughtful care, your Souq Atelier piece will develop a rich, personal character over decades of use. This guide offers gentle practices to preserve its integrity while allowing natural ageing to unfold.
Daily Care
After each use, gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and surface particles. This simple ritual prevents accumulation that could settle into the grain.
Allow your piece to rest in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight when not in use. Leather breathes best in moderate humidity and temperature.
Gentle Cleaning
For routine cleaning, use only a soft, slightly damp cloth. Never saturate the leather. Gently wipe in circular motions, then immediately dry with a clean, soft cloth.
For stubborn marks, create a mild solution of water and a drop of pH-neutral soap. Test on an inconspicuous area first. Apply sparingly with a soft cloth, then wipe clean and dry thoroughly.
Avoid: harsh chemicals, alcohol-based cleaners, household detergents, or abrasive materials that strip natural oils.
Conditioning
Every three to six months, or when the leather feels dry to the touch, apply a small amount of natural leather conditioner or balm.
Use a clean, soft cloth to work the conditioner into the leather using gentle circular motions. Allow it to absorb for 15-20 minutes, then buff lightly with a dry cloth.
Note: Less is more. Over-conditioning can saturate the leather and affect its structure.
Water & Moisture
Full-grain leather has natural water-resistant properties that improve with age and proper care. However, it is not waterproof.
If your piece becomes wet, blot gently with an absorbent cloth and allow it to air dry naturally at room temperature. Never use direct heat sources such as radiators or hair dryers, as these can cause the leather to crack or shrink.
Once completely dry, condition the leather to restore moisture balance.
Storage
When storing for extended periods, clean and condition your piece first. Fill bags with acid-free tissue paper or a clean cotton cloth to help maintain shape.
Store in a breathable cotton dust bag (provided with your purchase) in a cool, dry place with moderate humidity. Avoid plastic bags or sealed containers, which trap moisture and can promote mould growth.
Check on stored items periodically to ensure they remain in optimal condition.
Embracing Patina
Patina is the natural evolution of full-grain leather—a softening of texture, deepening of colour, and development of a subtle sheen that reflects years of thoughtful use.
This transformation is not wear; it is character. Each mark, crease, and tonal shift tells the story of your journey together. We design our pieces to age gracefully, rewarding patience with increasing beauty.
Minor scratches can often be blended by gently rubbing with your fingertip—the natural oils in your skin help soften surface marks.
When to Seek Professional Care
While most care can be handled at home, certain situations benefit from professional attention:
- Deep stains or colour transfer
- Structural repairs to stitching or hardware
- Mould or mildew removal
- Significant drying or cracking
We offer restoration services for Souq Atelier pieces. Contact our atelier with photographs, and we will advise on the best course of action.
Your Souq Atelier piece is designed to accompany you for decades. With gentle care and regular use, it will develop a character as unique as your own journey.
Questions about caring for your piece?