Nubuck leather is cleaned dry first: a soft brush, then an eraser for stubborn stains, never with a lot of water. This page details the steps, the useful products and the mistakes to avoid. You will also see how the care differs from smooth leather like the leather of Garbelle bags.
What is nubuck leather?
Nubuck is leather sanded on its outer side, which gives it a velvety look. Suede is sanded on its inner side. Nubuck is tougher, but it stains easily. Both leathers need more care than other leathers to avoid stains and scuffs.
The Garbelle leather backpacks and messenger bags are cut from full-grain waxed cowhide leather, a smooth leather. Their care differs from nubuck care: our guide to leather bag cleaning and daily care details the method.
How do you clean nubuck leather step by step?
Clean nubuck dry with a soft brush, then treat stubborn stains with a special eraser. Always test the step on a hidden area. Blood, oil and paint stains remain very hard to remove.
- Gently brush off the dirt with a suede and nubuck brush.
- Rub stubborn stains with the eraser, then brush again.
- For a water ring, dampen the whole surface evenly with a sponge, then brush once dry.
- Blot with a dry cloth and let the leather air-dry.
- Brush one last time to lift the nap.
Which products should you use to treat nubuck?
Four products cover most nubuck care. Choose products made for suede and nubuck. The table shows what each one does.
| Product | Use |
|---|---|
| Suede and nubuck brush | Removes dirt and lifts the nap |
| Special eraser | Removes stubborn stains without water |
| Slightly damp sponge | Evens out the surface to erase a water ring |
| Protective spray | Protects nubuck from water and stains |
Apply the spray sparingly, from 30 cm (12 in), in a well-ventilated place. Let it dry, then buff with a soft brush.
What should you avoid with nubuck?
Nubuck is sensitive to moisture, heat and harsh products. Four precautions limit the damage:
- No direct sunlight on the leather.
- No storage in a damp place.
- No heat source nearby.
- No chemical or sharp object in contact.
Do you care for nubuck like suede?
The method is close, because both leathers are cleaned dry first. Nubuck, harder on the surface, tends to last longer. For a suede bag, our guide to caring for a suede leather bag details the steps.
For a smooth waxed leather, compare the models on the page for Garbelle leather backpacks and messenger bags for men.
