FAQ on Leather Care

How do I clean Leather and Leather Restraints?

Sweat, body fluids and lube will dirty and dry your leather restraints causing cracking. If the leather isn't stored properly it can even mold or rot. Proper storage and cleaning of your leather will make it last for years.

To clean your leather items you will need both a leather cleaner and leather conditioner. I highly recommend Lexol brand. The Lexol cleaner is a foaming agent and helps to dissolve and 'lift' the dirt out of the leather. The Lexol conditioner will not cause bleeding of the dyes, doesn't contain chemical solvents, is non-flammable, odorless, non-toxic and non-sensitizing to the skin. It also does not leave a greasy or tacky feel to the leather surface. You can buy Lexol at better shoe repair shops, tack and saddle stores, and Petsmart stores which carry horse care items.

In the case of mold on your leather, dry it out completely - do not put it close to a direct heat source as this will further damage your leather. Place it in the open where dry air can circulate around it. Hang it if you can to ensure through air circulation. Drying can take several days. Once it is dry use a damp cloth to wipe off the mold. Again let the leather thoroughly dry. Clean the leather item thoroughly as detailed above. To prevent this from happening again, make sure your leather is stored in a dry location with air circulation. Inside a plastic bag is not a good place.

Clean your leather with a lint free cloth. Apply the cleaner in a circular motion, wait a few minutes, then wipe of the cleaner with a water dampened cloth. Rinse the cloth frequently and continue wiping until the cleaner and dirt are thoroughly removed.

Once the leather is clean, you will apply the conditioner. Depending on the brand you choose, you may or may not need to dry the leather again. Apply or spray a small amount of condition onto the leather and work it in with a damp cloth. Leave it on for about 30 minutes so the leather can absorb the conditioners. Rub the surface of the leather with a soft terry towel and then allow the item to dry.

Leather that has been allowed to crack cannot be restored to its original state by any available method. Proper storage and care will ensure many years of useful service from your leather.