Are you eager to add an edgy and designer feel to your outfit? The best way you can achieve the look is by accessorizing your attire by including snakeskin accessories like clutches, belts, handbags, shoes, and hatbands. They are all classic fashion pieces that anyone would love to own. Anaconda, python, rattlesnake, wart snake, and whipsnake are some of the viper snakes that possess beautifully textured skins. These skins, when are turned into a fashion item, effortlessly create a statement. But if you want these luxury accessories to last long, you have to know how to take proper care of them. Snakeskin is fragile leather. It needs special care to maintain its sheen and quality. With the apt preservation methods, snakeskin items can last for decades. This article aims at giving you information regarding the caring tips for your beautiful scaly accessories.
Table of Contents
Storage methods
Snakeskin items need to breathe. If you want to avoid any damage to the item and also want to keep the skin smooth as brand new, it’s best to store them in a temperature-controlled environment. The skin will become dry if you store them in containers that bar the flow of air (like plastic). Thus, it will become prone to damage quite easily. The best way to preserve your precious belt or handbag and maintain its sleek look is to wrap them in acid-free tissue and store them in a cardboard box.
Protecting the items from various elements
Snakeskin accessories are very delicate and can deteriorate due to the influence of many things. Such exquisite pieces are sensitive to harsh lights. Direct sunlight and UV rays can cause much harm to them. Overexposure to the different weather elements can lead to the drying of the skin. The scales may turn yellow, and such a change is irreversible. Keep them as far away from alcohols and oils. If at all by accident they get stained, you must consult a cleaner master who is an expert in dealing with exotic leather items.
Cleaning
Cleaning the snakeskin objects is of paramount importance. These accessories should be cleaned after every use. All you would need is a soft damp cloth. Start by removing the dirt and dust with gentle strokes. Your handbags and clutches tend to attract dirt due to the oil left by your hand. Make sure, not clean against the direction of the scales. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove the loose dust from under the scales without attempting to lift them.
A snakeskin hatband, belt, or bracelet, no doubt, can catch the attention of anyone around us. But to keep them clean and looking as good as new, it’s only advisable to use a slightly damp cloth to do the needful. As snakeskin is water-resistant, using excess water and soap products can make the scales dry out and curl.
Proper hydration through conditioning
Conditioning is the key to maintaining the luster of the products. Buy a good-quality leather conditioner that is meant solely to treat snakeskin items. Applying such a conditioner will keep your accessories looking gorgeous for a long time to come. It prevents the premature drying of the skin. The strength of these conditioners is usually lesser than the usual leather conditioners as they contain lighter components. So, be extra vigilant while picking the conditioner, as using the wrong product can damage your beloved bag or boot. If this happens, you will notice residue building up. The scales will crack and eventually fall off.
Conditioning the accessories once a month will keep them in better condition. If you can follow such a regime, you will be able to flaunt your snakeskin products at any time you want to. You may be possessing snakeskin boots. Most of them have an inner layer of cow leather. With time, the inner layer may dry out. Use a different leather conditioner to keep the cow skin hydrated. This process will benefit the outer snakeskin layer too.
Waxing and polishing
To bring back the shine on these accessories, specially formulated cream wax and polish are available in the market. If you find it hard to find, seek the help of exotic leather shops. Online specialist suppliers can also help you in purchasing the needed cream wax or polish. A single coat of cream wax is enough to bring back the luster. Choose neutral creams for polishing natural colors or else, you may notice discoloration. Avoid bleaching white snakeskin as they are already bleached. They return to their natural golden hue as time passes. Bleaching them again will decrease their lifespan significantly.
Conclusion
Snakeskin accessories are delicate items. If you find it hard to take good care of your prized possessions, do not hesitate to seek the help of professionals. A leather care specialist can guide you properly in these matters. Just remember that whatever item you possess; you have to take proper care of it.
