CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
As you'd expect, leather gloves can become dirty with frequent use.
We recommend you use a leather expert for cleaning, but if you insist on doing it yourself, please read carefully the following instructions:
Since leather is skin, it absorbs the oils from your hands as well as other liquids and particles. Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate onto your gloves. If yours appear lackluster with visible dirt and scuff marks, it's time to give them a good cleaning. This doesn't mean simply tossing them into the washing machine or letting them soak in a tub of water. Instead, leather gloves require the utmost care to preserve the integrity and color of the leather.
Here is a step-by-step guide for the exterior and interior cleaning of your leather gloves.
EXTERIOR GLOVE CLEANING
Before washing your gloves, it's imperative that the soap you choose is not formulated with harsh chemicals. These wash out the natural oils in the leather, which will make the gloves stiff and uncomfortable. Plus, removing the oils greatly prematurely shortens their lifespan. Be sure to have a mild oil-based saddle soap to remove exterior stains and restore moisture.
- If your gloves have stains, use a white vinegar and water solution (equal parts of each) to remove them. To do this, take a cotton ball coated with the solution and coat your gloves. With a soft microfiber cloth, dab the solution off and allow them to dry.
- With a damp cloth, lather up your chosen soap and coat your leather gloves, making sure to get the soap in between the fingers. Then, use a clean damp microfiber cloth to wipe off the soap completely. This microfiber cloth should also help to provide a nice sheen to the leather.
- Allow your gloves to dry, but in the meantime, pull them on a few times to allow the leather to stretch and take on its original shape. Do not attempt to dry them with external heat or with sunlight. When wet leather dries too quickly, it can stiffen and become brittle.
INTERIOR GLOVE CLEANING
If you must clean the interior immediately and can't wait to seek out a professional, you can try the following:
- Turn your gloves inside out so that the interior is exposed.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to spray the lining (but keeping in mind to not soak the material).
- Allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes, then pat dry.
- Allow the interior to completely dry in a cool, ventilated space. Do not place them in direct sunlight or attempt to dry them yourself.
- Turn them right side out and pull them on to help them take on their original shape. If the exterior leather appears creased, smooth it out and apply a leather conditioner.
If you'd prefer not to take this route, you may also lightly spray the inside of the gloves with this solution, hydrogen peroxide, or rubbing alcohol.