Product Overview
Shearling Nappalan Care Kit SN4 by Leather Doctor is a specialized system designed to clean, rinse, hydrate, soften, and condition the Nappalan and wool face.
Regular care with this kit helps maintain the garment’s fresh appearance, preventing creases, wrinkles, and premature wear. It also keeps the wool face clean, healthy, and full of life.
What is Nappalan Shearling?
Nappalan Shearling is a sheepskin with a suede outer surface coated for a smooth finish. Over time, abrasion or wear may expose the suede beneath. The inner face consists of sheared wool.
Signs of Premature Aging
Premature aging in Nappalan shearling is typically noticeable in the folds and creases or when the sleeves appear shorter than their original length.
Reviving Nappalan from Premature Aging
Aging effects can be reversed through hydration and fatliquoring, which restore flexibility, smooth out creases, and replenish essential oils to keep the material soft and resilient.
Why Hydration is Important
Hydration plays a key role in restoring shearling by relaxing creases, improving flexibility, and creating an optimal condition for fatliquoring.
Preventing Sleeve Shrinkage
Shearling sleeves may appear shorter due to natural creasing and loss of moisture. Hydrating and fatliquoring the leather restores its elasticity, allowing the sleeves to regain their original length. Regular fatliquoring prevents shrinkage by maintaining the leather’s essential fat and oil moisture balance.
Reducing Friction Wear on Nappalan Finishes
Friction wear is a common issue, especially when leather rubs against itself, such as in the movement of swinging arms. Applying Protector B minimizes friction, reducing wear and tear while preserving the finish.
Why Leather Becomes Stiff and Prone to Tearing
Leather can become stiff, brittle, and prone to tearing due to:
* Evaporation of natural fats and oils over time, accelerating with heat exposure.
* Water damage and alkalinity toxicity, leach out essential oils, weakening the material.
Recommended Cleaning Sequence for Nappalan Shearling
For best results, cleaning should begin with the wool face before proceeding to the Nappalan outer surface. Once dry, conditioning treatments follow to maintain softness, flexibility, and durability.
Included Products in Kit SN4
The SN4 kit contains concentrated products that require dilution with 1.9 quarts (1732g) of distilled water before use.
For the Nappalan Outer Surface:
Cleaner 3.8
Rinse 3.0
Hydrator 3.3
Fatliquor 5.0
Protector B
For the Wool Face:
Wool 5.5
Rinse 4.0
Conditioner S
Application Tools:
Brush 1 (for Nappalan)
Brush 4 (for wool)
Foam 2 (for general application)
Towel 1 (for extraction)
Nappalan Leather Cleaning, Hydrating, Fatliquoring & Conditioning Products:
Cleaning & Rinsing System:
A pH 3.8 leather-safe cleaner that effectively emulsifies and suspends general soiling without damaging the leather’s natural integrity. It maintains the ideal pH range of 3-5 when paired with Rinse 3.0, it ensures thorough cleaning while preserving the leather’s structure and preventing residue buildup.
A pH 3.0 rinse neutralizes and removes suspended soil and alkaline residues, restoring the leather’s natural pH balance. This rinse enhances the leather’s ionic charge, reinforcing the bond between tanning agents, dyes, and fat liquors. It prevents tackiness, dye bleeding, and stiffness, ensuring pH-healthy leather.
Hydrating & Fatliquoring System:
A pH 3.3 hydrating conditioner that relaxes and softens stiff leather, smoothing out creases and wrinkles before fatliquoring. This hydrating solution facilitates deep moisture movement, reactivating dormant dyes and reducing surface tension for improved suppleness.
A pH 5.0 fat and oil microemulsion that replenishes essential moisture, restoring flexibility and preventing dryness, stiffness, and cracking. The negatively charged (-ve) fat content plumps the leather for a fuller appearance, while the oils smooth out wrinkles, soften coarse textures, and enhance overall suppleness. Regular application prolongs the leather’s lifespan and prevents premature aging.
Conditioning System:
A non-film-forming, nonstick conditioner that provides a soft, buttery feel while reducing friction noise. Protector B Plus offers an optional leather scent. This rub-resistant formula minimizes stretch, scuffing, and abrasion while shielding against sticky soiling and dye transfer—particularly beneficial for pastel-colored leathers.
Wool Cleaning, Rinsing & Conditioning Products:
Wool Cleaning System:
A pH 5.5 wool-safe disinfectant cleaner that gently cleans sheepskin, shearling, and woolskin while reducing odors during drying. This water-based cleaner effectively penetrates and suspends soiling through a gentle chemical reaction, ensuring a deep yet delicate clean.
Wool Rinsing System:
A pH 4.0 acidifying rinse removes suspended soil while restoring the natural pH balance of wool fibers. It strengthens the protein structure of sheepskin, shearling, and woolskin, leaving them with a fresh, squeaky-clean feel.
Wool Conditioning System:
A non-film-forming, rub-resistant conditioner designed to enhance the durability of shearling, sheepskin, and woolskin. It creates a protective barrier against sticky soiling while maintaining a soft, smooth texture and preventing rubbing-induced fiber breakage.
Tools for Leather & Wool Care:
Brush 1 is a high-quality horsehair detailing brush, designed for smooth leather surfaces. It provides soft, scratch-free cleaning, ensuring effective results with ease. The ergonomic design features a sturdy grooved grip for added comfort and control. With a 7-inch length and a 1.5-inch, three-row horsehair cleaning head, Brush 1 offers efficient performance for delicate leather care.
Brush 4 is a durable steel detailing brush, ideal for brushing and grooming the wool face of sheepskin and shearling. Ergonomically designed with a sturdy grooved grip, it serves as an extension of your hand for effortless results. The brush measures 7 inches and features a 1.5-inch, three-row steel cleaning head, perfect for maintaining wool textures.
Foam 2 is a high-density poly foam brush that resists tearing and shredding. With its 2-inch size, this brush is designed to carry and distribute more solution evenly for a smooth application, ensuring optimal control over the spreading process.
Towel 1 is a thick, absorbent washcloth with a soft ring-spun loop pile, lint-free measuring 12" x 12", perfect for cleaning, rinsing, and drying. Its thick fabric offers superior absorption, making it highly effective for any leather or wool care task.
Wool Cleaning, Rinsing, and Conditioning Instructions:
1. Soil Removal
Start by brushing off dry soil with Brush 4. For best results, vacuum the area to remove any additional particles. Afterward, proceed with wet cleaning.
2. Cleaning
2.1 Dilute Wool 5.5 concentrate (1:64) by mixing with 224g distilled water or filling 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
2.2 Apply the solution and gently brush in one direction at a low slanting angle. Use Towel 1 to extract the soiling until the towel is clean. Once cleaned, proceed to the rinsing step.
3. Rinsing
3.1 Dilute Rinse 3.0 concentrate (1:40) with 222g distilled water or 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
3.2 Apply the rinse solution, brush in one direction at a low slanting angle, and extract with Towel 1 until the towel is clean and the wool feels squeaky healthy. Proceed to the drying phase.
4. Drying
Allow the wool to dry naturally. During the drying process use a dry towel to wipe off any residual soiling. Once dry, move on to conditioning.
5. Conditioning
5.1 Mix Conditioner S concentrate (1:19) with 217g distilled water or 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
5.2 Apply the conditioning solution, and brush evenly to distribute the product deeply into the wool. Allow it to dry completely.
5.3 Once dry, groom the wool with a slicker comb for a polished "bloom" effect and the best appearance.
Nappalan Cleaning, Rinsing, Hydrating, Fatliquoring, and Conditioning Instructions:
1. Soil Removal
1.1 Begin by brushing off dry soil with Brush 1. Use a clean, dry towel to extract any remaining particles until the towel shows clean. Proceed to the cleaning phase.
2. Cleaning
2.1 Mix Cleaner 3.8 concentrate (1:64) with 224g distilled water, or fill 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
2.2 Apply the Cleaner 3.8 solution, brushing with Brush 1, then use a towel to extract the soiling until the towel is clean. Proceed to the rinsing step.
3. Rinsing
3.1 Mix Rinse 3.0 concentrate (1:40) with 222g distilled water, or fill 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
3.2 Apply Rinse 3.0, brush, and extract with a towel until it shows clean and feels squeaky healthy. Once clean, begin the hydrating phase.
4. Hydrating
4.1 Mix Hydrator 3.3 concentrate (1:25) with 218g distilled water, or fill 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
4.2 Apply Hydrator 3.3 and brush to hydrate the full thickness of the leather. While still damp, massage out creases and wrinkles, stretching the leather back to its original dimension. Proceed to fatliquoring.
5. Fatliquoring
5.1 Mix Fatliquor 5.0 concentrate (1:5) with 189g distilled water, or fill 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
5.2 Apply Fatliquor 5.0, brushing and following the same path as the Hydrator 3.3.
5.3 Repeat the Fatliquor 5.0 application as the water content evaporates during drying.
5.4 Once fully saturated with fat and oil, allow the leather to dry naturally and slowly.
5.5 Stretch and massage the creases and wrinkles as they dry to enhance suppleness. After drying, proceed to the conditioning phase.
6. Conditioning
6.1 Mix Protector B concentrate (1:19) with 217g distilled water, or fill 1.5 inches from the top of an 8oz bottle.
6.2 Apply Protector B evenly, then wipe off any excess. Allow it to dry completely before use.
7. Tips
7.1 For an improved appearance free from creases and wrinkles, use a low-heat wool setting on an iron.
7.2 Place a white absorbent paper between the leather and the iron, and iron using the wool setting to restore a smooth appearance. .
People Also Ask:
1. What is Hydrating?
Hydrating is a process that relaxes creases, wrinkles, and aging leather before fatliquoring. It helps separate fibers and open inter-fibrillary spaces for effective water movement within the leather. Hydration also helps remove contaminants during cleaning and softens leather by plumping it up, easing creases and wrinkles. Hydrating stabilizes the leather's pH balance and helps improve the bonding between the leather's fibers and fat liquor. For best results, hydrate the leather until moisture seeps out when gently pressed, and proceed to stretch out the creases and wrinkles.
2. What is the Ratio Usage Between Hydrator 3.3 and Fatliquor 5.0?
The recommended ratio of Hydrator 3.3 to Fatliquor 5.0 for severe dryness is 2:1 by weight. This means for every 160g of Hydrator 3.3, use 80g of Fatliquor 5.0 to recondition 100g of dry leather, bringing it back to a moisture content of about 14%, which is the average for modern tanneries.
3. What is Fatliquoring?
Fatliquoring is the process of adding fat and oil into leather after hydration. This treatment keeps the leather soft, reduces creases and wrinkles, and prevents the leather from becoming stiff or prone to tearing.
4. Why Fatliquoring?
Fatliquoring is essential because it softens leather by introducing fats and oils that replenish what is lost over time. Unlike traditional methods where leather is immersed in a rotating drum, fatliquoring can now be done with fatliquor-in-a-bottle, which is applied and easily absorbed by the leather, restoring its suppleness without altering its original texture.
5. What is Fatliquor?
Fatliquor is a special emulsion of fats and oils with an ionic negative charge. It keeps leather soft, smooth, and breathable by plumping the fibers with fat and lubricating them with oil. This helps prevent the leather from drying out and cracking while maintaining strength and flexibility.
6. How Does Fatliquor Work?
Fatliquor works through a process called hydrogen bonding. The leather’s ionic positive fibers attract the ionic negative fat and oils, creating bonds that ensure the leather remains soft, supple, and breathable. This process helps keep the leather in optimal condition, preventing cracks and dryness.
7. What Are the Benefits of Fatliquor Versus Conditioning Oils?
Fatliquoring softens leather without leaving a greasy surface, unlike conditioning oils, which can leave the leather feeling oily and darken its appearance. Fatliquor also enhances the leather's tensile strength, relaxes wrinkles, and prevents cracking. It helps maintain the leather’s original performance and prevents premature aging.
8. What is the Appearance Difference Between Conditioning Oil and Fatliquoring?
Conditioning oils typically darken the leather’s appearance, even when dry, whereas fatliquoring increases color intensity without darkening it. Fatliquor enhances the leather's natural appearance, keeping it fresh and vibrant.
9. What is the Breathability Difference Between Conditioning Oil and Fatliquoring?
Conditioning oils can clog the leather’s pores, preventing moisture from escaping and causing discomfort from sweating during prolonged wear. Fatliquoring keeps the leather’s pores open, allowing for natural transpiration, making it more breathable and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
10. What is the Durability Difference Between Conditioning Oil and Fatliquoring?
Conditioning oils can fill the pores and evaporate over time, which can lead to the leather becoming less durable. Fatliquoring, on the other hand, creates a more lasting bond with the leather’s fibers, making it more durable and less likely to lose its softness and flexibility.
11. What is the Approximate Quantity or Percentage of Fatliquor in Leather?
The fat liquor content in leather typically ranges up to 14%, depending on the leather type and usage. This percentage may decrease over time due to aging, heat exposure, or damage from water or alkalinity, which causes the fat and oil to evaporate.
12. How is the Percentage of Fatliquor Content Calculated?
Fatliquor content is based on the dry weight of the leather. For example, if the leather weighs 100g and the fatliquor content is less than 1%, applying 80g of Fatliquor 5.0 would increase the fatliquor content by 13.3% once the water evaporates.
13. Hydrator 3.3 and Fatliquor 5.0 Product Review:
The Lazarus Effect
Product Reviews -Posted by Larry Bauman on 31st Jul 2017 This product revived my 40-year-old Sheepskin coat that cracked at the touch after applying another company's 'Restoration' product. That other product ruined my coat, and I was about to throw it away, but took a chance on the Leather Doctor. After applying Hydrator 3.3, I saw an immediate change. I then continued with the Fatliquor 5.0 and was shocked to see the change. My coat is now as soft and supple as it was when I purchased it in 1975! Don't even take a chance on valuable leathers with other companies' products, this one will amaze you with its results.
Updated February 1, 2025, by Roger Koh.
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