For Regular External Care:
Gently clean the surface of your garment using Fiebing’s Yellow Saddle Soap. Apply with a damp, soft cloth or sponge using light circular motions to lift dirt and maintain the leather’s integrity. Wipe away any excess residue with a clean, dry cloth, then allow the garment to air dry completely before conditioning. This routine helps preserve the finish, keeping the leather looking polished and supple over time.
Color Restoration for Black Leather:
With wear, high-contact areas—especially on black corset bodies—may naturally show lightening or rub marks. This is easily refreshed. Using a soft cloth, apply a small amount of black shoe polish to the affected area, working it in gently with light circular motions. Allow it to dry, then buff lightly to restore depth of color and luster. This simple touch-up brings well-loved pieces back to life and helps maintain their original richness. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
Conditioning:
Using a soft, lint-free cloth, apply a light layer of Fiebing’s Mink Oil Paste to the exterior surface. This helps nourish the leather, restore suppleness, and add a protective finish against the elements. You can do this at any time to maintain the leather, but it’s especially important after cleaning the garment with water. Be sure to use mink oil paste—not standard mink oil—as the latter is deeply penetrating and may irreversibly stain the garment.
Quick Refresh:
Once the garment has fully dried after wear, refresh it by misting the interior with a fabric spray like Febreze. Lay the piece flat on clean towels to air dry—keeping it away from direct heat or sunlight. Avoid hanging while wet, as this can lead to sagging and affect the garment’s shape.
Deep Clean Method:
Over time, natural perspiration buildup may occur. When needed, you may fully submerge the garment in cold water and hand wash it gently using a mild, non-detergent soap. After rinsing thoroughly, lay the piece flat on clean towels to air dry—keeping it away from direct heat or sunlight. Avoid hanging while wet, as this can lead to sagging and affect the garment’s shape.