Photo by ALTEREDSNAPS

Special types of leather or exotic leather, like crocodile or alligator skin, can make accessories and shoes look really fancy, but they need more than just regular cleaning to keep them nice. Numerous articles explain how to take care of these kinds of accessories, but this one will tell you about the tools you need to make them shiny.

• Cleaning the dust off: Gently wiping dust and dirt off the surface of the leather is important. You can use a horsehair brush to do so for your exotic leather article. Ensure that this step is not skipped over; wiping off dirt and dust before conditioning the leather helps ensure that the treatment can penetrate the leather effectively, protecting the leather from potential damage and resulting in a more uniform finish.
  
  
• Conditioning the leather: Similar to any other type of leather, exotic leather requires moisture to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking using specialised formula such as the Saphir Reptan. Crocodile or alligator leather, in particular, needs specific attention for a few reasons. First, the tanning process for exotic leather differs from that of more common varieties like cowhide. Crocodile or alligator leather scales are also more susceptible to damage if not handled with care, making the use of conditioning products tailored specifically for exotic leather maintenance necessary.
  
  
• Cream polishing: Cream polishing is necessary for crocodile and alligator skin as it provides essential nourishment, protection, and enhancement to the natural material. Cream polish moisturises the leather, forming a protective layer against dirt, dust, and moisture, thus prolonging its lifespan and maintaining its appearance over time. Cream polishing also enhances the leather and conceals minor imperfections while ensuring it remains flexible and supple for comfortable use.
  
  
• Wax polishing: This provides an additional protection layer and enhances its lustre and appearance. Crocodile skin, like other exotic leathers, benefits from wax polishing because it helps seal the surface, making it more resistant to water, dirt, and other environmental elements. The wax polish also adds a glossy finish to the leather, enhancing its natural shine and making it look more luxurious. It can help to even out the colour and texture of the leather, giving it a more uniform and polished appearance.

Note: Between polishing sessions, it's important to remember to buff the surface. Buffing helps to remove any excess polish, smooth out imperfections, and restore the shine to the leather. This step enhances the overall appearance and prolongs the life of the polish, ensuring that the leather maintains its lustre and remains in top condition.