What’s So Different About Chet’s?
Chet was a master leather cleaner and restorer and received many years of training and experience. He has passed these procedures and skills down to our expert cleaning technicians, so they understand the art of leather care. Leather needs to be cleaned and properly conditioned to restore the essential oils that tanneries originally used to ensure that it lasts a long time. Without proper maintenance, it dries out and develops micro-cracks, fades prematurely, and will ultimately split and be damaged beyond repair.
We expertly clean and condition – Aniline, Nubuck, Suede, Hair on Hide, Eel, Python, and other difficult and exotic leathers.
- Were they trained in the complete tanning process?
- Are their solutions approved by all the major tanneries?
- Is protection included in their process?
- Is conditioning included in their process?
- Do they have the expertise to remove difficult stains and the knowledge to repair marks or tears?
- Will their methods dry out and cause irreparable damage to your leather goods?
Our Process
Step 1: Pre-Inspection
We begin by testing the leather to determine its type: Protected leather, Aniline leather or Nubuck leather. Although we clean all three types, the cleaning process for each is slightly varied. We also inspect for natural markings and evaluate soil and staining so we can ascertain the expected results.
Step 2: Pre-Clean / Vacuum
We will brush and vacuum Nubuck and suede, and between cushions and all other non-leather areas.
Benefit: This will loosen difficult soil and stains and remove pet hair and debris that collects in hidden areas.
Step 3: Pre-Spot / Pre-Condition
Depending on soil conditions and stains we will spot clean and or pre-treat areas as needed.
Benefit: Proper cleaning solutions, agitation and time are the only ways to remove stubborn soil or spots.
Step 4: Cleaning / Wash
Our trained professionals use the proper cleaning agents with the most thorough methods of application, to loosen, emulsify and suspend deeply embedded soil for instant extraction.
Benefit: We use products and methods that clean deep into the pores and grain of the leather while enhancing its natural characteristics. This ensures that your leather is never dried out or damaged.
Step 5: Rinse
A special PH-balanced rinse agent is used.
Benefit: This ensures that leather is returned to its most favorable PH condition and all cleaning residue and soil are completely removed.
Step 6: Dry / Forced Drying
Large fans are used to quickly and thoroughly dry the leather, in some cases, a hairdryer is also used.
Benefit: We are able to see the finished result and re-clean any areas or spots that need it.
Step 7: Conditioning
The leather is nourished with the same agents used during the original tanning process.
Benefit: Essential oils lost through natural aging, sunlight and use are replenished to enhance the look, feel and most importantly the integrity of the leather.
Step 8: Optional Protection
We can properly apply protectors that repel soil, stains and sunlight.
Benefit: These quality products enhance and protect the natural beauty of your fine leather.
