Conservator’s Tips: How to Care for Antique Leather Books

There’s something magical about antique books — the warm patina of old leather bindings, the delicate marbled papers, the faint scent of history lingering in their pages. But just like fine antique furniture, these treasures need proper care to survive for generations to come.
In this post, our conservator shares expert advice on how to preserve and care for antique leather books, whether you’re a passionate collector or simply want to protect a cherished family heirloom.

Understand the Nature of Antique Leather

Over time, leather naturally dries out, becomes brittle, and may develop cracks or powdery “red rot.” Antique books are often bound in vegetable-tanned leathers, which can react poorly to fluctuating humidity, light, or inappropriate cleaning products.
Recognising these vulnerabilities is the first step toward proper care.

Key enemies of antique leather books:

• Excessive dryness or humidity
• Direct sunlight and heat sources
• Dust, dirt, and skin oils
• Harsh cleaning products or oils not designed for conservation

How to Store Antique Leather Books Safely

• Keep them upright and supported: Store books vertically on shelves with similar-sized volumes so they support one another. If a book is fragile, consider laying it flat.
• Control climate: Aim for stable humidity (around 40–50%) and a cool, steady temperature. Avoid attics, basements, or rooms with big seasonal swings.
• Limit light exposure: UV light fades and weakens leather. Keep books out of direct sunlight and use curtains or UV-filtering film on windows.
• Dust gently: Use a soft natural-bristle brush or a clean, dry cloth to gently sweep away dust.

Gentle Cleaning and Leather Dressing

If your books are dry or showing early signs of deterioration, minimal intervention is best. As professional conservators often say: “Do as little as possible — and as much as necessary.”

• Dry cleaning only: Never use water or household cleaners. Lightly dust with a soft brush or microfibre cloth.
• Leather dressing (optional): Only apply leather dressing if the book is actively drying out and cracking. Choose a conservation-grade product such as British Museum Leather Dressing, and use a tiny amount on a lint-free cloth. Apply sparingly, let it absorb, then gently buff with a dry cloth.
• For red rot: If the leather surface is powdery, consult a professional conservator. They may use Klucel G (dissolved in ethanol) to consolidate the leather safely.

Tip: Always test any product on a hidden area first — and when in doubt, seek advice from a trained book conservator.

Handling Antique Books With Care

• Wash and dry your hands before touching old books.
• Support fragile spines by cradling the book rather than letting it hang from its covers.
• Avoid forcing bindings to open flat — this can crack the spine.
• Use a book cradle or foam supports if reading for long periods.

When to Call a Professional Conservator

Some issues require expert treatment — such as detached covers, mould, insect damage, or severe leather decay. Attempting DIY repairs with glue or tape can cause permanent harm. A professional conservator can stabilise the book while preserving its historical integrity and value.

A Final Word From the Conservator

Caring for antique leather books is about balance: protecting them from harm while respecting their age and character. With mindful storage, gentle handling, and occasional professional help, these beautiful objects can continue to tell their stories for centuries to come.

If you’d like personalised advice on caring for your antique collection, feel free to contact us or visit our shop — we’re always happy to talk antiques!