Hands applying leather conditioner

Care Guide

Leather Is Meant to Last

Your JJW piece is built to age with you. With a little care, the leather will soften, deepen in color, and develop a patina that is entirely your own. No two pieces age the same way — and that is exactly the point.

Built to Age Gracefully

Full-grain leather is a living material. Over time and with use, the colors deepen, the surface softens, and a rich patina develops that tells the story of where your piece has been. This is not wear — it is character. The goal of leather care is not to keep your piece looking brand new. It is to keep the leather nourished, supple, and protected so it can do what it was made to do: last a lifetime.

The Essentials

How to Care for Your Leather

Condition Regularly

Leather needs moisture to stay supple and resist cracking. Apply a quality leather conditioner every 3–6 months, or any time the leather begins to feel dry or stiff. A small amount goes a long way — work it in gently with a soft cloth in circular motions and allow it to absorb fully before use.

Clean Gently

For everyday dust and light dirt, wipe down with a dry or slightly damp soft cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a leather-specific cleaner — never household soaps, alcohol-based products, or harsh chemicals, as these strip the natural oils from the leather and accelerate drying and cracking.

Protect from Moisture

If your piece gets wet, blot — do not rub — with a clean dry cloth and allow it to air dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight. Never use a hair dryer or place near a heater. Once fully dry, apply conditioner to restore moisture lost during drying.

Store with Care

When not in use, store your piece in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid plastic bags or airtight containers — leather needs to breathe. Stuff bags lightly with tissue paper to help them hold their shape, and keep pieces away from sharp objects that can scratch the surface.

Embrace the Patina

Small scratches, slight color variations, and surface marks are part of the story. Most light scratches can be buffed out gently with a soft cloth. Over time, the oils from your hands and daily use will naturally condition the leather and blend minor marks into the overall patina. This is the beauty of full-grain leather — it only gets better.

Recommended Products

What We Suggest

We recommend using a natural leather conditioner such as Leather Honey, Bick 4, or a beeswax-based conditioner. Avoid silicone-based products, which can clog the leather's pores over time. When in doubt, test any product on a small, hidden area first.

Have Questions About Your Piece?

Every JJW piece is a little different. If you have questions about caring for a specific product, reach out — we are happy to help.