Leather gloves are a stylish, durable, and versatile accessory that not only protects your hands from cold weather but also adds a touch of fashion and comfort. However, as expected, they tend to get dirty with frequent use. This is because leather absorbs oils, liquids, and particles from your hands.
Over time and with increased usage, dirt a nd dust accumulate on the gloves. If your gloves look dull, lackluster, and have noticeable stains and scuffs, it’s time for a thorough cleaning.
Properly cleaning leather gloves is crucial to maintaining their appearance and prolonging their lifespan. They require gentle care to restore their shine. Below are steps for cleaning the inside and outside of your leather gloves:
External Glove Cleaning
Before cleaning the gloves, select appropriate cleaning materials. Ensure that the soap and glove cleaner you choose do not contain harsh chemicals that can strip the leather of its natural oils, making the gloves stiff and uncomfortable and shortening their lifespan.
If there are stains on the gloves, you can use a cleaning solution like a mixture of white vinegar and water to remove them. Dip a cotton ball into the solution and gently rub it on the gloves.
Dampen a cloth with the chosen soap and apply it to the leather gloves, making sure the soap penetrates between the fingers. Then, lightly wipe the soap with a clean microfiber cloth.
Let the gloves air dry in a ventilated area. Avoid trying to force dry them or expose them directly to sunlight, as this can cause the leather to become stiff and cracked. During this time, stretch the gloves a few times to allow the leather to stretch and regain its shape.
Internal Glove Cleaning
The lining of leather gloves can be made of materials such as silk, cashmere, and wool. Since leather cannot be completely soaked in water, cleaning the lining of leather gloves is more complicated. You can try the following methods:
First, turn the leather gloves inside out or flip them over so that the interior is facing out, exposing the lining. Let them air dry naturally to expel moisture from the gloves’ interior and reduce bacterial growth.
If possible, use a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle to gently suck out dust and debris from the inside of the gloves. Be sure to choose low suction to avoid damaging the lining.
If there is an odor inside the gloves, you can use some deodorizer or natural odor-removal methods, such as sprinkling baking soda or placing some dried tea bags inside. These methods can absorb moisture and odors, keeping the inside of the gloves fresh and clean.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and spray it on the lining (but be careful not to wet the material). Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the inside of the gloves. Then let the gloves sit for 20 minutes before patting them dry.
Let the lining air dry completely in a cool, ventilated area. Do not place it in direct sunlight or attempt to dry it.
Flip it over and then pull it up to restore its original shape. If there are wrinkles on the external leather, apply a leather conditioner, or lightly spray hydrogen peroxide or alcohol on the inside of the gloves.
If you own a pair of Aibon leather gloves and have any questions about cleaning them, feel free to contact us.