The patent leather was originally developed by a New Jersey-based inventor Seth Boyden in 1818. But its commercial manufacturing began only in late 1819. In contrast to the Modern patent leather that usually has a plastic coating, the original patent leather was characterized by a linseed oil-based lacquer coating. In addition the Patent leather is also marked by a high gloss and shiny finish. Patent leather is very often confused with poromeric imitation leathers which are manmade materials with a similar glossy appearance.

Now concentrating on the cleanliness issues the Patent leather is cleaned in a similar way as poromerics. Dirt adhering to the coating can simply be removed with a damp cloth or with the help of mild soap if needed. Furthermore minor scratches or scuff marks etc. can be removed using one of several special purpose patent leather cleaners available in the market. Loosing its shine with the passage of time the patent leather eventually loses its glossy finish, but it is its unique capability that it manages to maintain a look and feel that’s much smoother than most other types of leather.