If dirt particles get into the leather they can cause serious abrasion from the inside. [2] X Research source
Drying leather quickly will change its chemical structure, causing it to become brittle and crack.
Don’t keep your leather in plastic either. Removing all air supply from the leather is bad for the material. [5] X Research source
Add leather dressing intermittently. Even if you haven’t used your leather item for many years, don’t just keep it stored in a glass display case. You need to dress the leather periodically. [7] X Research source
Many people enjoy the look of worn leather and think its brings the material to life. You also should avoid letting your leather get stretched out. For example, if you stuff a leather wallet too full it won’t go back to its normal size afterwards. If you want sleek, new looking leather you should avoid stretching it. [9] X Research source
Buff out the rest of the polish with the rag. It should shine by the time you’re done with it. [10] X Research source
If you have a hat or a pair of shoes that got wet you should stuff them full of paper towels while they dry. An even better option would be some sort of mold about the size of you head or foot. This will keep the leather from shrinking and becoming misshapen as it dries. [12] X Research source
If you’re wearing suede shoes try brushing them lightly with a wire brush or a fingernail file. [13] X Research source