Soaking is the first major step in the leather tanning process. It rehydrates the raw skins and prepares them for further treatment by removing unwanted residues.

Raw hides often arrive in dried or salted form to preserve them during transport and storage. Soaking is essential to restore the hides to their natural, pliable state. During this process, skins are immersed in large drums or tanks filled with water and specific soaking agents such as wetting agents, surfactants, and mild detergents. These additives help break down surface impurities and initiate the cleaning process without damaging the fibers of the hide.

A crucial function of soaking is the thorough removal of physical contaminants such as blood, soil, dung, and especially salt used during curing. If left untreated, these residues can interfere with later processes such as liming, pickling, and tanning, leading to uneven results and compromised leather quality. The effectiveness of soaking directly impacts the success of these subsequent steps, making it a cornerstone of the leather preparation workflow. In addition to improving cleanliness, this stage also eliminates unwanted proteins and soluble impurities that can cause odor or bacterial degradation if not properly treated.

The soaking process is carefully customized depending on the type and condition of the hide. Variables such as water temperature, pH level, soaking duration, and chemical composition are meticulously controlled to match the specific needs of cow, buffalo, goat, or sheep skins. Softer hides require gentler handling to prevent damage to their delicate fiber structure, while thicker skins may need extended soaking to ensure complete rehydration. By adhering to strict protocols and quality standards, we ensure the hides are uniformly conditioned and stabilized, providing a strong and reliable base for the transformative journey into finished leather.

Key highlights of the soaking process include:

• Restoration of moisture in dried or salted hides
• Removal of dirt, blood, manure, and excess curing salt
• Use of specialized detergents, surfactants, and soaking agents
• Prevention of bacterial growth through controlled temperature and pH
• Customized soaking conditions based on skin type and origin