Leather care
Your bag is made of vegetable-tanned smooth leather or suede, natural products that, with a little care and attention, will last a long time. Vegetable-tanned leather has a buffed or sanded surface, giving it a velvety feel. Suede is made from the inside of leather. Suede has an open texture, making it somewhat more durable than other (smooth) leathers.
Before use, spray your backpack with a moisture- and dirt-repellent spray. These sprays are available at any cobbler or shoe store. Always test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area before spraying your entire bag. Your bag will thank you.
If possible, avoid a heavy rain shower (unless you were planning to anyway). Leather is a breathable material that doesn't react well to water. Did your bag get wet? Let it dry at room temperature, especially away from a heater, and leave your hairdryer in the bathroom cabinet. A heat source dries out the leather and doesn't make your bag look any better. The same goes for bright sunshine. Enjoying a drink on the patio? Keep your bag out of the sun to prevent discoloration.