How to Care for your Leather

What to do with New Leather

When you buy a new leather product it isn’t always immediately ready for regular use. You should make sure you oil your leather with Neatsfoot oil or a quality saddle leather oil to darken the leather and soften it. To oil your leather take a cloth towel or a brush and wipe down the leather with the oil.

Cleaning and Conditioning

Take it apart, separate buckles and any fittings from the leather. If there is an excessive amount of dirt, dust, sweat, etc. on the leather take a towel with warm water and wipe the leather down. Make sure you apply oil, conditioner, or a glycerin soap after wiping your leather with water as the water will dry the leather out.

Storage

Where you store your leather equipment matters, leather is skin and is affected by its environment just as your skin is. You should store your leather equipment clean and dry in a covered area away from excessive heat or cold. Keeping your leather in a place where air circulates such as in a crate is better than in a sealed environment such as a tote. If storing it for long periods of time try to check it for mildew periodically and clean it if necessary.

Where to Buy Leather Cleaner and Oil:

You can purchase Leather Oil and conditioner at most any equine tack shop, leather workers, or farm store near where you live. Otherwise there are a number of sites online where you can order a decent leather oil or conditioner.

Reputable Stores