A lubricating emulsion for leather was prepared, using alternative materials to those normally used: igepal co 610 (a nonylphenoxy polyethylene surfactant) instead of arkopal n 100 (a nonylphenol polyglycol ether surfactant); lanolin instead of a neat's foot oil/lanolin mixture; and a change in proportions. The lanolin was mixed vigorously with half its weight of surfactant in a mortar and pestle. Distilled water was added slowly with constant stirring. If the emulsion remained stable for 10 minutes, it was ready for use. The mixture contains no preservative and must be discarded after use.