Leather needs maintenance. Neglect it and it will fade, crack and lose its texture, but if you know what you’re doing, your leather bags and shoes will age gracefully. Follow our three anti-aging tips to get you started:

*Wash, rinse, and repeat. Cleaning leather regularly is sure to keep it shiny and new. Most leathers will respond well to a conditioning cleanser, or a gentle shampoo diluted with water, applied with a microfiber cloth. Steer clear of saddle soap or ammonia-based cleaners, as they’re potentially too harsh for durable, yet sensitive, leather. And whatever cleaning method you use, make sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first.

*Leave dust in the dust. Letting bags and shoes gather dust in your closet can be a serious fashion buzzkill. It causes their finish to lose finesse. To avoid this faux pas, keep leather accessories in a special cloth storage bag (even a pillowcase), or dust them off with a soft cloth at least once per week.

*Avoid exposure to the elements. Placing your leather bags in direct sunlight, or carrying them in the rain, can leave them weathered. Avoid fading, drying, cracking, and/or water stains by taking proper precautions in these conditions—umbrellas and shade are your sole sisters!