How to Care for Horween® Leather
Start with a brush. If the leather still looks dry or needs cleaning, choose the conditioner for the tannage. Tanner's Blend is our choice for Dublin, Chromexcel® and Illini. Venetian Shoe Cream is the choice for polishing Shell Cordovan. Cypress is heavily conditioned during tanning and can simply be brushed.
Use a light hand. A small amount of conditioner, worked in with a soft cloth and buffed after it absorbs, is enough. Test a small, inconspicuous spot first. More product does not mean better care.
Which leather care product should I use?
- Dublin, Chromexcel® and Illini: Brush away dust and use a little Tanner's Blend Leather Conditioner when the leather needs cleaning or conditioning. Buff with a soft cloth.
- Shell Cordovan: Start with a horsehair brush. For polishing, use a small amount of Venetian Shoe Cream, let it dry, then buff. Do not use Tanner's Blend on Shell Cordovan.
- Cypress: Brush away surface dirt. Its self-healing wax finish usually needs no conditioner.
For everyday care, wipe away dirt before applying anything. Condition when the leather looks or feels dry, not on an automatic schedule. Let wet leather dry naturally at room temperature, away from a heater or hair dryer.
Care guides from our workshop
How to remove salt stains from leather boots
Phil's step-by-step method for lifting salt stains without scrubbing the leather aggressively.
How to polish Shell Cordovan
Bring out the shell's luster with brushing, a soft cloth and a little Venetian Shoe Cream. For more stubborn scuffs, see our Shell Cordovan scratch guide.
How to care for and polish Chromexcel®
Use the natural movement of oils and waxes to restore luster. For scuffs, follow the Chromexcel® scratch maintenance guide.
What is bloom on leather?
Learn why a cloudy, whitish film can appear and how brushing restores the finish.
Shell Cordovan versus Chromexcel®
Understand the leathers before you choose a care routine.
Leather care FAQs
How do I care for Horween® leather?
Brush away dirt first. Use Tanner's Blend sparingly on Dublin, Chromexcel® and Illini. Use Venetian Shoe Cream when polishing Shell Cordovan. Cypress typically needs only a brush. Always try a small, hidden area first.
How do I care for Chromexcel® leather?
Brush it to move the oils and waxes through the finish. Wipe with a lightly damp cloth if needed, then brush again. For cleaning or conditioning, use a small amount of Tanner's Blend and buff. Chromexcel® is water-resistant, not waterproof.
What is the best way to polish Shell Cordovan shoes and boots?
Brush the shell with a horsehair brush. Apply a small amount of Venetian Shoe Cream with a soft cloth, let it dry and buff to a shine. Brushing alone is often enough. Do not use Tanner's Blend on Shell Cordovan.
How often should I condition leather wallets and belts?
Condition when the leather needs it, not on a fixed schedule. Once or twice a year is plenty for many wallets and belts. Regular brushing and normal handling may be all a piece needs between applications.
How do I care for a leather jacket?
Follow the jacket maker's care label. For items made from Dublin, Chromexcel® or Illini, a small amount of Tanner's Blend can be used after a spot test. Do not use it on Shell Cordovan.
Can I use leather conditioner on furniture?
Tanner's Blend can be used on suitable genuine leather furniture. Check the furniture maker's guidance and spot-test first. Finished, coated and specialty leathers can respond differently.
Shop the Leather Care collection, or see the step-by-step guides in our Leather Knowledge Base.