There is nothing quite like the anticipation of waiting for a premium package to arrive, especially when it is a piece of authentic Western decor that you have carefully selected for your home. When that box from us finally lands on your doorstep, we know you are eager to see the rugged elegance inside. We take immense pride in ethically sourcing and crafting our buffalo hides to ensure they arrive in pristine condition, but the first few hours after you unbox your new hide are crucial for setting it up for a lifetime of beauty. We have put together this guide to walk you through exactly what to expect and how to handle your new investment from the moment the tape is cut.
Unboxing Your Buffalo Hide: First Steps for Long-Lasting Quality
The Initial Inspection
The moment you open the box, we recommend doing so carefully to avoid accidentally nicking the leather with a knife or box cutter. Once opened, remove the hide and immediately lay it out flat on a clean, dry surface. We carefully inspect every hide before it leaves our facility, but we always encourage you to run your hands over the fur and check the leather side as well. This is your first introduction to the unique texture and quality of the hide, ensuring it meets the high standards we promise with our buffalo hides for sale.
Letting It Breathe
Because your hide has been folded and packaged for shipment, it needs time to acclimate to its new environment. You might notice a distinct, earthy scent—this is completely natural for authentic leather products and will dissipate quickly once the hide airs out. We advise laying the hide flat in a room with good air circulation for at least 24 hours before moving it to its final location. It is vital that you never store your hide in plastic, as the leather needs to breathe to maintain its flexibility and softness.
Revitalizing the Fur
During transit, the thick, luxurious fur of the bison hide can become slightly compressed or flattened. To restore its natural volume, we suggest giving the hide a good, vigorous shake to fluff up the fibers. If you notice any specific areas that remain matted, you can gently run your fingers through the wool or use a coarse-tooth comb to tease the hair back to life. This simple step helps return the hide to its natural, untamed beauty, showcasing the premium quality of the bison hide for sale that you chose.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Where you place your hide matters just as much as how you clean it. We always remind our customers to avoid placing the hide in areas with direct, intense sunlight, as UV rays can eventually fade the rich, natural colors of the fur and dry out the leather. Similarly, keep the hide a safe distance from heat sources like fireplaces or floor vents. By choosing a location with stable temperatures and indirect light, you ensure that the hide remains supple and vibrant, serving as a stunning centerpiece in your home for generations.
Taking these simple initial steps ensures that your new piece of Western heritage remains as magnificent as the day it arrived. At Front Range Buffalo Company, we are passionate about providing not just products, but lasting additions to your lifestyle that capture the spirit of the American West. If you have any questions about the specific care of your hide or are looking to add a matching piece to your collection, we invite you to browse our full catalog or reach out to our team for expert advice.