Shoes

[Dee in OK]

Should I condition them? I've never done that, but I'm wondering if I should condition all my leather bags before packing them away for summer.

Any recommendations for leather conditioner?

[Krissie2]

You will find tons of info on the Purseforum - Google it.

Based on reading the recommendations of the ladies there, I have been using Cadillac leather conditioner (I buy it on Amazon), and Apple Guard spray on the bags I want extra protection on, and have been very happy with both products.

Good luck!

[Sunnycorle]

I don't condition my bags and have never had a problem. Conditioning can change the color and I wouldn't want that for my own.

[Gemspirit]

Coach used to and, probably still sells a leather conditioner. It's lovely. I've had one bottle for a few years since it goes far. I use a warm water washcloth or old towel and dip it in the water with a gentle squeeze so it's not to wet. Put about a dime size of the conditioner on the cloth and buff away. I've even used it on my coated canvas pieces. And, it just works great. I believe there may be a paste form too. But, I just prefer the lotion form. Very gentle on the hands too. Yeah, Spring is really going to come!

[Dee in OK]

Thank you for the responses.

A couple of years ago, in the Coach store, they tried to sell me their conditioner. Also, I was with my daughter when she bought a Brahmin, and they tried to sell her a conditioner. I didn't know if it really improved and protected the leather, or if it was just another sales pitch.

[Gemspirit]

IMO...it does help the leather stay nice looking and clean. But you needn't do it often; once or twice per wearing season is just fine. While I use the Coach and, that bottle lasts forever! However.when I need to buy new, it's so similar to the clear leather cleaner for shoes in that little round tin. Saddle soap also works well. I don't know if it is as gentle? So, maybe dilute it a touch more?

[Lavenderjunkie]

Dee: I don't condition my bags unless they look and feel dry. Dooney does not recommend conditioning their bags and doing so will void the warranty. I would suggest testing any conditioner on a small unseen portion of the bag to be sure it doesn't darken the leather or strip the color. Different leathers react differently and different conditioners interact with the leather differently.

Lots of ladies on the purse forum swear by Apple conditioner. I've never used it.