Leather Explained

Why different kinds of leather need
different care and cleaning

Leather is a natural product derived from the hides of animals. It is processed and turned into leather at a tannery. The leather is then coloured and given a top finish. The end product is available in four forms: aniline, semi-aniline, protected (pigmented) or nubuck.

Aniline is leather in its purest form. It is dyed for colour but has no protective layer. Aniline leathers are generally expensive because they are made from the best hides available and exhibit such qualities as luxurious look, supple and soft to handle, and breathable because they allow air to pass through. These same qualities make aniline leather very difficult to maintain and keep clean.

Why Aniline leather is the softest and most luxurious
– and the most difficult to clean and maintain.

Nubuck or suede leathers also have no protective treatment and are also difficult to service and maintain.

Semi-aniline leathers are dyed and have a pigment or protection layer. They are easier to maintain and clean than aniline leather, but could be from lesser grades of hide and don't have the same breathability.

Pigmented leathers have colour pigment applied to the hide surface and are finished with a protection layer. Pigmented leathers are made with lower-quality hides that are stiffer and less luxurious than higher quality leathers, but they are much easier to clean and maintain.

Corrected Grain or Buffed leathers are similar to the pigmented leathers, with the key difference being the mechanical correction of imperfections. The leather is finished with a pigmented layer, applied and embossed with a grain pattern, and a top protection coat.

Exotic leathers, such as waxed and oil pull ups, and Bycast leathers need special attention – one more reason why it pays to call in the leather cleaning experts at 416-SO-CLEAN. Give us a click or call (416-762-5326) today to learn more.