How to Care for a Leather Belt or Wallet

Good leather does not need much looking after, but a few habits make a real difference to how it ages. Here is what actually helps, and what to avoid.

Everyday habits

• Give a belt a rest. Wearing the same belt every day keeps stretching the leather at the same hole. If you can, rotate between two.
• Do not overstuff a wallet. Too many cards and receipts stretch the leather and the stitching, and it will not close flat again.
• Take it out of your back pocket when you sit. It is better for the wallet and for your back.
• Hang belts or lay them flat. Rolling a belt tightly or leaving it buckled in a drawer encourages creases.

Cleaning

For day-to-day dirt, wipe the leather with a soft, dry cloth. For marks, use a cloth that is barely damp, then let the item dry naturally. Avoid soaking leather, and avoid household cleaners, baby wipes or anything containing alcohol, which can strip the finish and dry the leather out.

Conditioning

Leather contains natural oils that slowly dry out. A small amount of leather conditioner every few months, or whenever the surface looks dry or pale, keeps it supple. Test it first on a hidden area, apply a thin layer with a soft cloth, leave it to absorb, then buff off the excess. A little goes a long way: too much conditioner can leave leather sticky or darken it.

If it gets wet

Blot off the water with a towel and let the item dry slowly at room temperature. Do not put it on a radiator or use a hairdryer, because fast drying makes leather stiff and can cause cracking. Once it is dry, a light coat of conditioner helps restore the feel.

Storage

Keep leather somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sunlight, which fades colour over time. Avoid sealed plastic bags, which trap moisture. A cotton dust bag or the original box works well.

What about PU leather?

PU (synthetic) leather is easier: wipe it with a damp cloth and a little mild soap if needed. It does not need conditioning, and leather conditioners are not designed for it. Keep it away from heat and sharp folds, which is where PU tends to crack.

Leather that ages well

Full grain leather is meant to change with use. It softens, darkens slightly and picks up a sheen known as patina, and small scuffs often blend in over time. If you are choosing a belt or wallet to keep, have a look at our handmade leather belts and genuine leather wallets, or read our guide to genuine leather vs PU leather.