Leather has countless uses due to its visual appeal and durability, though it isn’t indestructible. The material is porous, absorbing moisture quickly. Though you can easily dry your leather gear after a light rain, high humidity is a different story, especially during storage. Moisture in the air can lead to mildew and mold growth on your stored leather items. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to store leather in humid weather to prevent damage and maintain your gear’s charm.

One of the best options for humidity protection for your smaller leather items is the original packaging it came with. Many companies sell or ship items like wallets, bags, or shoes in a clean dust bag inside a box. If you’re careful with the packaging when you receive these items, you can avoid tearing them for future use.

Using the original packaging is handy since you don’t have to buy extra gear or spend money on other storage options. The dust bag and box will be breathable, so they won’t trap moisture inside when your leather goods are wrapped up.

You may want to stuff your leather items before storing them this way to avoid creases and ensure they maintain their shape. If you have any silica gel packets on hand, add a few to the box before closing it for even more humidity protection.

Wrapping or covering your leather gear with paper is another good option due to its breathability, though you need the right kind of paper. It should be acid-free and dark-colored to prevent light from penetrating it. Wrap the leather item in the paper and place it in a box or suitcase.

You may also want to stuff the item with paper to ensure it maintains its shape. If you’re storing leather clothing, like jackets or pants, you’ll also need to fold it properly by flattening it, folding the sides in, and rolling it gently.

Cardboard tubes won’t work for all your leather gear, though for flat wall hangings or rags, it’s a fantastic option. The cardboard is breathable to release moisture and dark enough to block light. It’s also easy to use since you only need to roll the leather piece to fit and slide it into the tube. Block the ends and store the leather-filled tube in a cool, dry place.

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Humidity doesn’t mean you have to stop using your leather gear, but frequently worn or used garments, bags, shoes, or furniture still need protection from moisture. For these items, using a dehumidifier may be necessary. Several options are available, from whole-home dehumidifiers to small, portable models, so you can get the perfect one for the gear and space you have to deal with.

If you have central air or a portable air conditioner, you can use it instead of a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels down in your home. Open up those closets or other leather storage areas to let the cool air in and keep the moisture out.

Before storing your leather, it’s best to clean and condition them. Doing so removes any dirt, dust, or stains from the item. Conditioning prevents the material from drying out during storage, so it’s as good as new when you’re ready to use it again. You’ll also need to thoroughly air-dry it after each process to prevent mold growth.

Don’t pack your leather gear too tightly. Leave a bit of room around the leather for better airflow and to avoid color transfer. It’s best not to stack anything on top of the leather since this could cause creases, wrinkles, or even tears in the material.

Leather gear is expensive, sometimes costing thousands of dollars. When spending so much of your hard-earned cash on your favorite pieces, protecting them from damage is a must. Moisture from humidity is one of the worst offenders, though easily avoided using our simple storage methods.