Gilly's Leather Care Balm in Beeswax, Coconut and Citrus Oil, 200 ml

Beeswax, coconut oil and citrus oil, blended into a soft balm by Gilly's, who have made beeswax based waxes and polishes since 1983. Gilly's Leather Care feeds and protects finished leather on chairs, sofas and lounges. It is not suitable for aniline or semi aniline leather.

What is in it

Coconut oil soaks back into the hide to soften it. Beeswax leaves a light protective layer on the surface. Citrus oil helps lift surface grime as you work the balm in. It contains no silicone, so it will not leave a build up that gets in the way of future restoration.

Why use it

Finished leather still dries out. Sun, heating and years of use draw the oils out of the hide, and once it dries the surface starts to crease, crack and lose colour, first at the arms, seat edges and headrests. A thin coat once or twice a year puts back what the room takes out.

What it is for

Finished, pigmented leather on chairs, sofas and lounges, as well as boots, saddlery, bags and wallets.

Not for aniline leather

Aniline and semi aniline leathers have little or no protective coating, and the citrus oil in this balm can darken or mark them. This includes the Texas saddle aniline leather on several of our own restorations. To check, put a single drop of water on a hidden area. If it soaks in and darkens the leather, the leather is aniline and this balm is not the right choice. If it sits on the surface, the leather is finished and the balm will suit it. For aniline leather, use the Guardian Leather Care Kit, which is made for aniline, semi aniline and pigmented leather.

How to use it

1. Wipe the leather with a soft, barely damp cloth to remove dust, and let it dry.
2. Test the balm on a small, hidden area first and leave it for a day.
3. Take a small amount on a soft, lint free cloth and work it into the leather in small circles, one section at a time.
4. Leave it for a few minutes to soak in.
5. Buff off any excess with a second clean cloth so the surface is not left sticky.

How often

Once or twice a year for chairs and sofas in daily use, and more often for leather that sits in sun or near a heater. When the leather feels dry or the colour looks dull at the arms and seat, it is time.

Why we stock it

It is the balm we use on the finished leather chairs and sofas that come through our studio, and the one we recommend for the years after a piece goes home.

Details

Size: 200 ml tin
Maker: Gilly's, established 1983
Ingredients: beeswax, coconut oil and citrus oil
Silicone free
Finish: clear
Suitable for: finished and pigmented leather
Not suitable for: aniline or semi aniline leather, suede or nubuck
Storage: keep the lid on and store in a cool, dry place

Not sure what kind of leather your furniture has? Message us a photo and we will let you know.