For alto, leather is more than a material—it’s a craft, a conversation, and a way to preserve what feels honest in a fast-moving world. We choose full-grain Italian leather for its natural pores, subtle markings, and the quiet character that forms over time. With minimal coating and a focus on preserving the leather’s original texture, each piece carries a softness and clarity that only grows richer with use.

This mindful approach gives our leather a tactile warmth and allows it to develop a patina unique to your daily rhythm. To help you understand how leather behaves and how to care for it, we’ve gathered some common user questions and answered them through alto’s perspective—practical, reassuring, and rooted in real everyday experience.

Q1. “Is this real leather? Why is the color fading?”

All genuine leather changes through friction and moisture. A phone case, handled hundreds of times a day, experiences significantly more wear than a wallet or bag. When leather absorbs hand moisture over long periods, the surface becomes more delicate; combined with constant rubbing, color loss—especially along the edges—becomes natural and expected.

Users with sweatier palms may see faster fading, while those with drier hands or lower usage may notice far less. Among all leather goods, phone cases face the toughest environment.

How to minimize leather color fade:

Allow the case to rest and air-dry overnight if it feels damp, and reduce friction whenever possible. Simple habits can greatly extend the leather’s life.

Q2. “Why is my leather darkening or turning uneven in color?”

Alto uses aniline leather: breathable, naturally grained, and lightly finished for everyday durability. It resists light moisture at first, but because it remains permeable, it slowly absorbs oils, sweat, and light—developing a patina that is different for every user. This evolving character is part of its appeal.

As the protective surface gradually wears, color changes become more noticeable.
If you prefer a more even tone:

How to Apply Leather Conditioner Properly:

Apply a small amount of leather conditioner onto a soft cloth, gently spread it over the surface, allow it to absorb, then wipe away excess. This keeps the leather nourished without clogging its pores.

When to Condition and When to Clean Leather:

During early use, conditioning is optional. Over time, with natural oil accumulation, focus more on cleaning and less on adding oils to avoid stickiness. At this stage, minor scuffs often self-correct—one of the quiet pleasures of living with real leather.

Light-colored leather is less able to “patina evenly.” Prioritizing cleanliness over conditioning will best maintain its tone.

Q3. “My leather picked up dye or stains—can it be cleaned?”

If the leather absorbs liquid or stains, gently blot with a dry cloth.
For dye transfer (like denim), lightly wipe with a clean, slightly damp cloth. If traces remain, use a dedicated leather soap or cleaner with a gentle touch—avoid excessive rubbing.

After cleaning, let the product air-dry in a shaded, ventilated area.

How to Prevent Leather Color Transfer:

If color transfer is a concern, darker leather is the safest choice. For lighter colors, prompt cleaning prevents pigments from settling too deeply.

Q4. “Isn’t leather durable? Why is my phone case peeling?”

Durability depends on leather thickness and usage.
Alto’s phone cases use a refined ~0.5mm leather layer to maintain slimness and comfort—different from the thicker leather found in bags or shoes. While it uses the strongest grain surface, repeated friction (pockets, sharp objects, falls) can still wear down the edges.

How to Prevent Leather Damage and Cracking:

Avoid prolonged rubbing against rough surfaces and maintain regular cleaning or conditioning to keep the leather supple and resilient.

Q5. “Any general leather care tips?”

• Keep leather away from prolonged moisture and direct sunlight.

• When not in use, store it clean and in a dry, ventilated space.

• Dust regularly with a soft cloth.

• For stains, use a lightly dampened cloth or a leather cleaner if needed.

• Apply leather conditioner every 1–2 months.

  • For phone cases: conditioning helps reduce moisture absorption.

  • For other leather goods: it prevents drying and cracking.

• For well-used phone cases that have become naturally oily, focus on cleaning rather than conditioning.