At the central research laboratory, amsterdam, before lubricating or buffering leather, it is necessary to determine both the ph and the fat content, as these values govern what is chosen for use. The emulsions are preferred; the recipe is given for one that contains lanolin, neat's foot oil, arkopal n 100 and water. Imidazole can be added but not more than 1% in concentration. Solvent leather dressing can also be used; the one used at the crl contains neet's foot oil, lanolin, white spirit plus imidazole organic buffer in iso-propyl alcohol. The need for a buffering agent is explained. Potassium lactate and sodium citrate are not advisable because insufficient could be added to counter the acidity present. A water solution is also inadvisable. Imidazole is much preferred; its mode of action is explained. It is claimed also to block the action of iron which may be present. The discussion covers buffering and lubrication and how to calculate the quantity of lubricant to add.