LEATHER CARE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Does Smith’s Leather Balm darken leather?

We’ve found that every leather responds differently. It’s important to remember that leather is porous like human skin. This means leather will absorb the natural oils in topical conditioners which may have a slight, natural darkening effect. We find that most leathers will not darken beyond their original shade. Many leathers respond by darkening slightly upon application and return to their original color within 24 hours once the balm has dried. For this reason we suggest testing Smith’s Leather Balm on a small, hidden part of the garment to preview results.

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Does Smith’s Leather Balm make leather waterproof?

Our balm contains organic beeswax which does function as a natural sealer, making leather water resistant- but not completely water proof.

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What should I do if I’ve applied to much Smith’s Leather Balm?

You won’t need much balm to treat your leather goods, shoes and boots. A little goes a long way. If your leather has a sticky or tacky feel after application- that’s a sign that you may have used too much. Fortunately it’s easy to fix. One of the primary ingredients in our recipe is organic beeswax. Beeswax will not penetrate the surface of the leather. Instead,

beeswax will rest upon the surface of the leather until buffed. This may leave a tacky film or residue that is easily removed by a horse hair brush or a simple buff with a rag.

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DIRECTIONS FOR USE

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As for application on leather, here are the instructions:

Smith’s Leather Balm restores, protects and preserves all smooth leather goods.

Start by making sure your leather goods are clean and dry.

Next, test a small amount of Smith’s Leather Balm on a hidden patch of leather to preview the results.

Start with a very small amount- a little goes a long way.

We believe that leather conditioners are best applied by hand and massaged into the leather but a rag or brush will work also.

Leather is porous and will begin absorbing the natural oils in Smith’s Leather Balm immediately.

This means that lighter shades of leather may naturally darken some.

Most leather goods will not darken beyond their original shade and return to a lighter shade in time.

Minimize darkening by making sure you start with a very small amount.  A little really does go a long way.

Buff with a horse hair brush or rag if desired.

Reapply Smith’s Leather Balm as necessary to restore, protect and extend the life of your favorite leather goods.