Proper leather care begins with knowing exactly what is in front of you. Leather can vary greatly in grain, finish, construction, and sensitivity—and materials that appear similar may require very different methods of cleaning, conditioning, or repair.

The Identify Your Leather Guide will help you recognize important surface characteristics, understand common leather types and finishes, and distinguish genuine leather from vinyl and other synthetic materials. By observing first and treating second, you can make safer decisions and preserve the material with the care and respect it deserves.