Koch-Chemie × COLOURLOCK COLOURLOCK "Old Leather Softener" for hardened old leather 1000ml

COLOURLOCK Old Leather Softener — Deep Softener for Hard, Brittle Old Leather

What does COLOURLOCK Old Leather Softener do? — The softener penetrates deep into old, hardened leather, restoring flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage, and optimally preparing the material for further care or repair steps.

COLOURLOCK Old Leather Softener is the professional solution when old, dry or brittle leather needs to become soft and pliable again. Especially with historic vehicles, vintage furniture, saddles or long-neglected smooth leathers, the material loses its natural fiber elasticity over time. The softener specifically introduces fats and softening substances into the deeper leather layers, reduces the risk of breakage, and creates an ideal basis for repairs, care, and color corrections. Old Leather Softener works slowly but sustainably – perfect for all leathers that are no longer flexible and could tear under tension.

• Deeply restores suppleness – Penetrates hardened fibers and significantly improves the flexibility of the leather.
• Reduces risk of breakage and tearing – Ideal before color refreshes or repairs, to stabilize brittle areas.
• Essential for classic car, furniture & vintage leathers – Perfect for smooth leathers that have been neglected or dried out for a long time.

Softener Technology & Mechanism of Action in Old Leather

Old Leather Softener combines highly effective fats and conditioning substances that slowly penetrate the collagen structures of the leather. With increasing age, leather fibers lose their internal moisture and flexibility; the fibers harden, which can lead to micro-cracks, stiffness, and tears. The softener gradually resolves this dry stiffness by making the fibers more supple and ensuring natural mobility. According to the manufacturer, the product works deeply without leaving the leather greasy or making the surface uneven. Since old leathers are often severely weakened, the softener acts like a regeneration of the inner structure before any repairs can even be considered.

Preparation, Application & Optimal Soaking Routine

Before application, the leather should be cleaned and completely dry. Old Leather Softener is applied generously but controllably with a brush, cloth, or sponge. The effect is not immediate, but gradual: the leather absorbs the product over hours or days, depending on how dry it is. For very hard areas, it is recommended to gently move the leather so that the softener can penetrate deeper. Repeated applications at 24-hour intervals may be necessary until the desired suppleness is achieved. Only when the leather has become noticeably softer and more flexible should color build-up, repairs, or care products follow, so that they do not fail on a brittle surface.

Results, Suitable Areas of Application & Distinction from Care Products

After the soaking phase, old leather appears significantly more flexible, less brittle, and shows a more stable fiber structure. This reduces the risk of new cracks forming when sitting, wiping, or working on it. Old Leather Softener is suitable for classic car leather seats, furniture, motorcycle saddles, antique leather goods, and all areas where leather has dried out over decades. It does not replace care creams or color conditioners: these are only used after the softening phase. The softener is solely for structural restoration – color touch-ups should only be done when the leather is elastic enough to support them permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions about COLOURLOCK Old Leather Softener

How long does it take for the softener to work?

Several hours to days, depending on the dry condition. Old leathers often require multiple applications.

Can I use the product on all types of leather?

Yes, on all smooth leathers. Not suitable for nubuck or suede.

Will the softener make the leather darker?

Slightly possible, especially with very dry leathers. The effect usually evens out again after care.

Can I dye directly after using the softener?

Only if the leather is flexible again and no excess oil remains. Only then will the color hold reliably.

How do I know if enough softener has been absorbed?

The leather can be bent again without cracking and feels significantly more supple.

Last updated: 02.12.2025 — Author: Daniel (Detailing1)