How to Clean and Care for Leather Gloves & Mittens

Leather gloves and mittens are elegant, comfortable, and functional accessories that provide much-needed warmth during the cold months. However, like other leather products, they need specific care to maintain their aesthetics and durability.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to clean and care for your leather gloves and mittens. From routine cleaning and stain removal to conditioning and storage, we’ve got you covered.

Cleaning Your Leather Gloves & Mittens

Cleaning leather gloves and mittens is a crucial task in their maintenance. Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking good but also extends their lifespan. This section will introduce you to the basics of cleaning these leather accessories.

Preparation

Before you embark on the cleaning process, there are a few critical steps to follow:

Ensure the gloves are dry: Cleaning them when they are wet can cause damage. Therefore, let them air dry before you start the cleaning process.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions: Some gloves come with specific cleaning instructions. Always check these details to avoid damaging them.
Remove any accessories: If your gloves have any accessories like buttons, belts, or other attachments, remove them if possible before cleaning.

Now that your gloves are prepared, it’s time to start the cleaning process.

The Cleaning Process

Leather gloves require gentle cleaning to prevent damaging the material. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Create a mild soapy solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap or a special leather cleaner with lukewarm water.
Dampen a cloth: Dip a soft cloth into the soapy solution and wring it out so it’s damp, not soaking wet.
Clean the gloves: Gently rub the damp cloth over the surface. Be sure to clean the entire surface, paying particular attention to any stained areas.
Rinse them: Using another clean, damp cloth (this time only with water), rinse off the soapy solution.
Dry them: Pat the gloves dry with a towel. Avoid wringing them out, as this can distort their shape.
Let them air-dry: Leave the gloves to dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause the leather to crack or warp.

Care and Maintenance

Once your gloves are clean, they require additional care to keep them in good condition. This section will guide you on how to care for them to ensure they serve you for years.

Conditioning

Conditioning is essential in preventing your gloves from drying out and cracking. Here’s how to go about it:

Choose a suitable leather conditioner: There are many products on the market, so look for one that is appropriate for your type of leather. If in doubt, a neutral, all-purpose conditioner will usually do the job.
Apply the conditioner: Using a clean, dry cloth, apply a small amount of the conditioner to the gloves. Use a circular motion to work it into the leather.
Let the conditioner absorb: Leave them for a few hours, or overnight, to allow the conditioner to fully penetrate the leather.
Buff off any excess: Using another clean, dry cloth, buff off any residual conditioner.

With conditioning, you’re not only enhancing their appearance but also boosting their durability.

Storing

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the shape, texture, and color of your gloves. Here’s how to store them properly:

Avoid crumpling: Store your gloves flat or rolled to prevent wrinkles or creases.
Keep them dry: Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew. A fabric pouch can provide good protection.
Keep away from heat and sunlight: Direct heat and sunlight can cause the leather to dry out and crack. Keep them away from radiators and out of the sun.

Dealing with Stains

Leather gloves and mittens can acquire stains over time, particularly due to their constant exposure to the elements and frequent usage. It’s important to deal with these stains promptly and effectively to keep your accessories looking their best.

Ink Stains

Ink stains can be stubborn, but with patience and the right approach, you can remove them.

As soon as you notice the stain, use a dry, clean cloth to blot it. Do not rub, as this can spread the ink.
Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab and gently dab the stain, making sure not to wet the surrounding leather.
Once the stain fades, clean the area with a mild soapy solution as described earlier in this guide.
After cleaning, condition the gloves to keep the leather supple.

Grease Stains

Grease stains can make your gloves look grimy and dirty. Here’s how to tackle them:

Use a clean, dry cloth to blot away any excess grease.
Sprinkle a generous amount of cornstarch or talcum powder over the stain. These substances will absorb the grease.
Leave the powder on the stain for a few hours or overnight.
Brush off the powder using a clean, soft brush. The stain should have faded significantly.

Preserving the Shape

Beyond cleaning, conditioning, and stain removal, it’s also vital to preserve the shape of your leather gloves and mittens. This helps maintain their fit and overall look.

Shaping Your Gloves & Mittens After Washing

After washing your gloves or mittens, it’s important to reshape them while they’re still damp. This helps them retain their original form. Follow these steps:

After gently squeezing out excess water, put the gloves on your hands.
Make a fist and stretch your fingers to help them regain their shape.
Carefully remove them and lay them flat on a clean towel.

Storing with a Glove Stretcher

If you’re storing your gloves for an extended period, consider using a glove stretcher or shaper. This tool can help prevent the leather from shrinking or becoming misshapen. To use a glove stretcher:

Insert the stretcher into the glove, making sure to adjust it to fit the glove’s size.
Leave the stretcher inside the gloves during storage.

Final Words

With proper cleaning and care, your leather gloves and mittens can maintain their style and functionality for many years. While it might seem like a time-consuming process, the benefits you’ll reap are immeasurable.

The effort is well worth it, though; leather gloves’ functions are without a number, ranging from a timeless fashion piece to a work-gear staple for the protection of your hands.

So, roll up your sleeves and start the cleaning and caring process, and in the end, you’ll appreciate the reward of well-maintained gloves and mittens.

How to Clean and Care for Leather Gloves & Mittens – A Brief Guide