Did you know that leather was used for clothing and accessories as long ago as ancient Egyptian times? From sandals to accessories, leather has been outfitting people for centuries.
If you own any leather goods, you probably understand the appeal. Leather is durable, attractive, and useful in many different ways. But it's important to know how to take care of your leather goods in order to get the most use out of them.
To learn more about leather belt maintenance, keep reading below. Our tips and tricks will help you keep your belt looking great.
Why Leather?
Leather belts tend to be more expensive than their non-leather counterparts, but it's for good reason. Leather is longer-lasting than other materials. Over time, a high-quality leather belt will mold to your body and change shape to fit you well.
Different types of leather have different appearances and are used for different items. The finish of the leather and the way it has been treated affects the final look. From embossed and embroidered leather to nubuck leather, there is a style for every taste.
Basic Leather Belt Maintenance
To start your leather-cleaning routine, wipe down your belt with a soft damp towel. This will remove dirt on the surface. Next, use a leather cleaning product on the belt to give it a more thorough wash.
Once you've used the cleaner, let your belt dry overnight. When it's dry you can add conditioner to keep your leather supple and soft.
Belt cleaning tools can make it easier to effectively clean your belt. Some of the most popular tools include simple items like cotton balls, small towels, and leather cleaning soaps. You can also use everyday cleaning items like rubbing alcohol, baking soda, and cornstarch when you're trying to remove stains or odors.
You should also pay attention to how you store your belt. The best leather belt storage is out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can leave your belt dry and damaged.
Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to cleaning leather belts, there are a few mistakes that you should be careful to avoid. First, try not to get your belt too wet. Drying a wet belt incorrectly can leave it damaged, so if your belt gets wet make sure to give it plenty of time to dry naturally.
Don't jump right in with leather conditioner before you thoroughly clean your belt. While conditioning is good for leather, it can grind dirt and grime into your belt if you don't clean it first. This leads to dry, cracked, and dirty leather.
Master Routine Belt Maintenance
Follow the leather belt maintenance tips above and you'll be enjoying your leather belt for years to come. Like many types of leather products, a little maintenance goes a long way. Caring for your leather belt will extend its life and allow you to use it to its full potential!
If you're interested in purchasing a new leather belt, check out our selection of leather accessories. At BlackBrook, we're dedicated to providing quality and craftsmanship that leaves our customers impressed. From wallets to shoes, we have something for everyone!