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A guide to caring for the materials that define Winchester
Every Winchester piece begins with carefully chosen, full‑grain leather, a material selected for its integrity, resilience, and the way it matures with grace. True leather needs very little from you; it was made to endure. But with a few simple habits, its natural beauty, depth, and comfort will continue to grow for many years.
Our approach has always been the same: choose materials that last, treat them with respect, and let time do the rest. Your leather will soften, deepen, and develop the quiet character that only comes from genuine craftsmanship and daily life.
Nourishing the Leather
Keep the leather nourished so it never loses its natural softness or supple feel. When cared for gently, full‑grain leather retains the depth, warmth, and character that define every Winchester piece.
Sunlight & Colour
Keep your furniture out of prolonged direct sunlight. Strong light will gradually lighten both the leather and the wood, softening their natural depth and colour. Where possible, protect your piece by drawing blinds or curtains, allowing the materials to age with the quiet dignity they were crafted for.
Protecting the Surface
Be mindful of sharp or abrasive objects, toys, jewellery, buckles, or pet claws, as they can mark the surface of the leather. Protecting it from scratches helps preserve the smooth, natural character that develops so beautifully over time.
Heat & Humidity
Keep your leather away from strong, direct heat or damp conditions. Open fires, radiators, heat vents, or draughty windows can draw moisture from the hide or expose it to unwanted humidity. Protecting it from extremes allows the leather to age naturally, retaining the depth, warmth, and character that define every Winchester piece.
Light vs. Dark Leathers
Lighter leathers age just as gracefully as deeper tones, but they may benefit from more frequent gentle cleaning. With simple care, their clarity and character will endure beautifully over time.
Everyday Cleaning
Avoid allowing grit or dirt to accumulate, as excess particles can act abrasively against the leather. Keeping the surface clean helps preserve its natural smoothness and the quiet character it develops over time.
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Important Notes
Over time, all genuine leather will relax and stretch. This may cause the pleats to open slightly, particularly on deep‑buttoned upholstery. This is not a fault, it is a natural characteristic of full‑grain leather as it settles and softens with use.
Cushions will also develop gentle creases as the leather moves and adapts. This is simply the material responding to everyday comfort and does not affect the quality or longevity of your furniture.
Your suite is designed to be lived in and enjoyed. Sitting on the very edges of cushions, or on the arms and backs, may place unnecessary strain on the padding and leather, leading to premature wear. Using each part of the furniture as intended will help it age with grace.
If your furniture is in constant use, reversible cushions should be turned regularly and their positions changed where possible. This helps prevent uneven wear and keeps the suite looking balanced over time.
Avoid placing plastic or rubber items directly on the wood finish. Certain chemicals in these materials can soften or mark the surface if left in contact for long periods. To protect the finish, place a small piece of felt, leather, or cork beneath trays or accessories.