How to Clean Leather Gloves

Leather gloves are worn for different purposes. Some choose them to protect their hands from injuries while others choose to wear leather gloves as a fashion statement. Many wear them to keep their hands warm in winter. Whatever the purpose of wearing a pair of leather gloves might be, they need to maintain regularly. But they cannot be tossed in the washing machine or randomly taken to a dry cleaner. They need special care. If you know the proper way of cleaning, it’s not so difficult either. Let’s know the cleaning method based on which part you need to clean and the reason behind.

How to Clean Leather Gloves

Vinegar method (inside and outside) :

If you feel odd wearing your gloves on or you have recently been sick and want to sanitize your gloves thoroughly, this vinegar method is the best option. You can apply this method both for the inner and outer sides of the gloves. Vinegar can destroy about 99% of bacteria and 80% of viruses. Let’s proceed with the cleaning method:

Things you will need:

• White vinegar
• Water
• A spray bottle
• A towel
• A soft clothing brush

Steps to follow:

1. Mix 50% of vinegar and 50% of plain water in a spray bottle.
2. To clean the gloves thoroughly, spray the mixture on the gloves. You must not soak the material as it can fade the color.
3. Spray the gloves carefully and allow them to rest for 20 minutes. Then pat them dry.
4. To clean the lining, turn the gloves inside out.
5. Let the lining of the gloves to air dry. Then brush the lining using a clothing brush to remove all the dirt and dust and use a towel to remove as much water as you can. That’s it. Your job is done.

Baking Soda method (for the inner part) :

The baking soda method is applicable to remove dirt and oil residue from the inner side of the gloves that have been deposited by your hands. Baking powder removes oil and dirt efficiently. At the same time, it effectively kills harmful bacteria and deodorizes the fabric as well.

Things you will need:

• Baking soda
• A vacuum cleaner

Steps to follow:

1. Sprinkle some baking soda into each glove properly. Make sure some go into the finger slot also. But you must not soak the gloves or sprinkle too much of baking powder.
2. Now hold the top of the glove shut and shake it so that baking soda can spread evenly.
3. Leave the gloves for a couple of hours and then shake it out. This shaking should remove most of the powder from the gloves.
4. Now, to remove the remaining powder, turn the gloves inside out. Then with the help of a vacuum remove the leftover dust. That’s all. Your gloves are now as good as new.

Read more about how to stretch and shrink leather gloves

Hand wash (only for unlined gloves):

Unlined gloves are easier to clean and maintain because they can be washed. But never try cleaning them in the washing machine. Doing that will damage the fabric of your gloves. Now let’s know the process:

1. The first step of hand washing your gloves is putting the gloves on and pouring under the open tap.
2. You will find soaps that are specifically made to wash leather. Or you can use a mild soap for this purpose. Any kind of sanitizer or dish cleaner must be avoided because these can harm the fabric. Body wash can be used also.
3. Pour just a little bit of body wash or rinse the soap well. Then rub both the hands together under the water and wash well.
4. Lay the gloves flat on a towel so that the finger slot doesn’t get affected.

Once the gloves are dried in the air, they are ready to use.

Removing salt:

Salt is very much harmful to any leather gloves. To ensure the longevity of your favorite gloves, you must get rid of the salt as soon as possible. Let’s see the procedure:

1. If the salt is small in amount, simply wiping with a damp cloth should suffice.
2. If you find the salt stubborn to remove, mix 50% of vinegar and 50% of plain water in a bowl. Gently rub the mixture on the salt stain.
3. When the salt is gone, pat the area dry. Now you can wear them as usual.

Removing oddness from the gloves:

Sometimes, the gloves are not dirty exactly, but you feel odd wearing them. In such a situation, you can do something to bring back the same comfort. For this task you will need:

• Leather milk and
• A cotton pad

Steps to follow:

1. Take a piece of cotton pad and pour a small amount of leather milk on it.
2. Then gently clean the surface of the glove with the same.
3. Don’t put too much pressure.
4. After cleaning you will feel the difference in look and comfort.

So, you have now learned various cleaning methods for your leather gloves. Now, you need to understand the situation and apply the method that suits them best. Follow the procedure carefully to enjoy the warmth for longer.