How to Care for Leather and Suede | DEPECHE.
The best tips for caring for your leather clothing and bags
Leather and suede are timeless materials that only get more beautiful with age – if you take proper care of them. At DEPECHE., we’ve gathered the best advice on how to treat and protect both leather clothing and bags, so they stay soft, durable, and stylish for years to come.
A good start: Impregnation
Leather and suede are animal hides, most often from buffalo, cow, or lamb. Because they are natural materials, they are susceptible to dirt, liquids, and stains. That’s why it’s important to start with impregnation, which creates a protective barrier that extends the life of your product. Remember to repeat the treatment regularly, as it doesn’t last forever.
We recommend: Collonil Organic Protection
This spray is suitable for all leather types and provides transparent protection against liquids, dirt, and stains. Shake the bottle well and spray an even layer about 20 cm from the bag or garment. Let it dry for approx. 2 hours. With regular use, the product extends the life of your leather and nourishes it with real olive oil.
Tip: Always test on a less visible area before applying to the whole product.
Stains on leather?
In general, leather and suede should not be washed. However, if you get a stain on your leather pants, dress, or jacket, it can often be removed with a damp cloth. Always check the care label first!
If the stain is stubborn, we recommend taking the item to a professional leather cleaner.
Reviving leather: Care products
As a natural material, leather may develop marks, scratches, or dryness over time. If your jacket or bag looks worn, you can easily revive it with a good care cream.
We recommend: Collonil Organic Cream
This cream is suitable for most leather types. It enhances the leather’s color, nourishes with macadamia oil, and makes the surface smooth and supple again. It’s free from silicone, fluorocarbon resin, and harmful additives. Apply with a clean, lint-free cloth or sponge – and always test first on a discreet spot.
Care for smooth leather
- Impregnate before use
- Repeat impregnation at least twice a year
- Apply care cream regularly to avoid drying out
- Remove stains with a dry or damp cloth
- For stubborn stains, seek professional cleaning
- Be cautious with water on leather
Most DEPECHE. products are pre-treated during production for durability – but it’s still essential to start with impregnation before use.
Care for suede
- Impregnate before use to protect against water, grease, and dirt
- NEVER use leather grease or cream on suede
- For stains, try steam and a suede brush, or seek professional cleaning
Suede is the backside of leather, sanded for its soft, textured finish. It can be rustic, masculine, elegant, or feminine – but it also absorbs faster than smooth leather, making impregnation essential.
Important: Never apply leather grease or cream to suede, as it will ruin the textured surface.
Care for leather gloves
- Impregnate before use
- Apply leather cream or grease a few times a year
- If dirty, clean gently with lukewarm water and soap flakes
Leather gloves never go out of style. With the right care, they can last for years – and like all leather products, they only get softer and more beautiful over time.