How to Care for Your Leather MacBook or iPad Case (So It Lasts for Years)

A well-made leather case doesn’t just protect your tech—it becomes part of your daily routine. Whether it’s your MacBook sleeve riding shotgun on the morning commute or your iPad case tossed in and out of your bag, your leather gear takes a beating. The good news? Full-grain leather is built for it. With just a bit of care, it can last for years—and look better every step of the way.

Here’s how to clean, condition, and maintain your leather case so it stands the test of time.

1. Build These Quick Habits into Your Routine

You don’t need to baby your case, but small habits go a long way:

• Wipe it down at the end of the day with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and oils.

• Keep it out of harsh environments—direct sunlight, humidity, or high heat (like a hot car) can dry out leather or cause it to warp.

• Avoid tossing it next to sharp or abrasive items in your bag. Leather is tough, but scratches and deep gouges can be hard to fix.

Pro tip: Let your case breathe now and then. Leather is a natural material—it appreciates a break from tight, enclosed spaces.

2. How to Clean Your Leather Case

If your case starts to look a little grimy, here’s how to safely clean it:

1. Start with a dry cloth to remove surface dust and dirt.

2. Dampen a clean cloth slightly with water—don’t soak it. Gently wipe down the leather.

3. Dry it immediately with a soft towel and let it air dry fully before use.

Avoid soap unless it’s a pH-balanced leather cleaner. Even then, test it in a small, hidden area first to make sure it doesn’t discolor your leather.

Skip baby wipes, alcohol-based products, or anything with harsh chemicals. They can strip leather of its natural oils and lead to cracking.

3. Conditioning: The Secret to Long-Term Beauty

Leather dries out over time, especially if you live in a dry climate or use your case daily. Conditioning brings it back to life and keeps it from stiffening or cracking.

• Frequency: Every 3–6 months is usually enough.

• What to use: A small amount of high-quality leather balm or conditioner.

• How to apply: Use a soft cloth to rub it in gently, let it soak in, then buff away any excess.

We use full-grain leather for all of our cases at Mission Leather Co.—so a little goes a long way. Properly conditioned leather develops a rich patina and character that just gets better with age.

4. What Not to Do with Leather

Even though leather is resilient, here are a few ways you can accidentally ruin it:

• Don’t over-condition. Once or twice a year is plenty. Too much can clog the pores and make it sticky.

• Don’t try to waterproof it using waxes or sprays not designed for leather.

• Don’t follow TikTok hacks using household oils like olive or coconut oil. These break down leather fibers over time.

When in doubt, less is more. Leather wants to breathe, flex, and move with your daily life—not be smothered with product.

Your Case Is Aging—That’s a Good Thing

One of the best parts about full-grain leather is that it doesn’t just survive wear—it tells a story. The scuffs, darkened edges, and subtle creases all add character. With proper care, that story stretches on for years.

At Mission Leather Co., every MacBook and iPad case is made by hand in Dallas, Texas, from the highest-quality leather we can get our hands on. We believe that if something’s going to be part of your daily life, it should be made to last—and made to look good doing it.

Want to See Leather That Lasts?

Check out our full line of handcrafted cases here and let your everyday carry do more than just carry.

Got a case that’s developed some serious character? We’d love to see it—tag us on Instagram @missionleatherco.