What Causes Leather to Darken?
Have you ever noticed your leather turning black or very dark, and you're unsure why or how it happened? This post will shed light on the causes behind this and provide tips on how to prevent your leather jacket from darkening.
Several factors can cause leather to darken or turn black when it wasn't intended:
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Hard water with minerals can react with the tannins in leather, causing it to darken.
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Dirt and mold can accumulate on the leather, turning it black.
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Metal parts like zippers, studs, or buttons can interact with leather and cause discolouration.
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Dyes or color from other materials can transfer onto the leather.
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Body oils can gradually darken leather if not cleaned properly.
How to Prevent Leather from Darkening
As mentioned earlier, hard water can be a major issue when it comes to leather jackets. The minerals in hard water, along with soap residue from leather cleaners, can accumulate over time and clog the leather’s pores. This buildup causes chemical reactions that may result in the leather turning black. To avoid this, make sure to use soft water when cleaning your leather jacket.
Additionally, mold is a common problem for natural leather. Storing leather in a damp environment can encourage mold growth. To protect your leather, consider using aerosol sprays designed to shield your items from moisture. Applying a thin layer of wax to the leather surface can also act as a barrier, preventing mold from taking hold.
Leather goods with metal hardware—such as zippers, rivets, eyelets, and press studs—are more prone to darkening. To avoid this, choose leather items with plastic or wooden hardware, as these materials won’t react with the leather and cause discolouration.
How to Soften Leather Without Darkening It
Leather that has accumulated dust and dirt over time can be rejuvenated in a variety of ways. While it may take a few days to see the full results, you can definitely restore the smoothness and flexibility of the leather without causing any darkening.
Natural Oils for Softening Leather
If you’re new to caring for leather and unsure about the best products, using natural oils is a great way to soften leather without causing damage. Avocado, jojoba, or coconut oils are excellent choices for conditioning leather items. It’s important not to wait until your jacket has turned black; you should apply natural oils after your leather has been exposed to the sun, especially in the summer. Let the material breathe for about 10 minutes to allow the pores to open.
These oils can be applied in various ways, but make sure to use a non-chemically hydrogenated vegetable or corn oil to restore the leather’s natural moisture.
To apply the oil, use your fingers or a brush, layering it on in thin coats. Multiple layers will yield the best results. After applying the oil, allow the leather to dry before wearing it again.
Depending on the condition of your leather, you can repeat this process as needed. Make sure the oil is applied evenly to avoid any uneven colouring.
If you’re unsure about how the oil will affect your leather, it’s always best to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Start by using small amounts and gently massaging it in. If the oil causes any discolouration, discontinue use immediately.