How to Take Care of Your Leather Wallets

 

Imagine this scenario: You've just bought an amazing new leather biker wallet to match your motorcycle jacket and boots. With its functionality and unique design, you can't help but take this wallet with you everywhere.

But one day, you take your wallet out of your jacket only to be horrified that it's cracked, discolored, and stained beyond repair. And all you can do is throw it out.

You don't want this to happen to you.

While leather wallets are much more durable than synthetic wallets, they also need specific care to keep them looking good. Caring for your leather properly preserves the design and keeps the leather durable so your wallet can withstand even the most active daily schedule.

So if you're ready to learn all about how to take care of your leather wallets, keep reading. Our guide will help you learn how to clean, condition, and preserve your wallet so that it can last you as long as possible.

Clean with Leather Cleaner

Leather may be versatile, but using any abrasive substances on it can still damage your wallet beyond repair.

When cleaning leather, you ideally want to use a leather cleaner. While many popular home remedies like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice may clean the stains on your clothes, these are far too harsh for leather.

One of the most important leather cleaning tips is to make sure you use a soft and clean cloth on your wallet. Never use the back of a sponge, as this material is too rough for your leather wallet.

And while leather cleaners tend to be on the more expensive side, it's best to get the best leather cleaner on the market rather than risk ruining your wallet and having to buy a new one. 

Plus, leather cleaners are gentle for many types of leathers, so you can use them for your biker boots, jackets, and more.

You always want to make sure to test your leather cleaner on an inconspicuous area of your wallet first. If there is no visible stain or reaction, then you can go ahead and use the cleaner.

Steps and Supplies

To clean your wallet, you'll need:

• A few soft, clean cloths (microfiber is great)
• A top-quality leather cleaner
• A paper towel or clean rag to dry your wallet on

Take out everything that's in your wallet and shake it out. This will take out any dirt or debris inside your wallet.

Next, use a dry cloth to wipe off the outside of the wallet. This step removes any loose dust and dirt.

If your wallet has stains or stubborn dirt, then spray a bit of leather cleaner onto another clean cloth or a special leather care sponge. Wipe the leather gently to remove any grime. You don't want to scrub so that you don't damage the leather.

Keep in mind that you don't want to over-clean or over-condition your leather wallet, as this could damage it in the long run.

Instead, you'll want to periodically wipe dust and dirt away with a dry microfiber cloth. Clean your wallet with a leather cleaner 2-3 times a year to keep the leather in pristine condition.

Use Leather Conditioner

You can have the best leather wallet on the market, but it can still crack if you don't take the time to condition it.

This is because the leather cleaning process strips the leather of some of its natural oils. The purpose of a leather conditioner is to add some of this moisture back in.

Make sure to test the conditioner on a small part of your wallet first to check that the leather won't get damaged or stained.

You want to apply the conditioner to another clean cloth and gently rub the conditioner into the leather. Make sure to condition the corners of your wallet too, as these areas tend to get worn out the fastest.

Be careful that you don't get any of the conditioner on the metal embellishments of the wallet so you don't have to clean it off later.

Store Your Wallet Properly

Another key in leather wallet care is making sure you store your leather wallet properly when it's not in use.

When you finish cleaning your wallet, make sure you let it dry completely before you store or use it. This is very important for the wallet's stitching, which could loosen and wear away with too much moisture.

You also want to store your wallet away from direct sunlight, as this could cause the color to fade. 

If you alternate between wallets, then store the wallet you're not using in a dust bag in your closet or in a drawer. Make sure not to use a plastic bag, as this could create a damp environment where mold can form.

Use a Wallet Cover

Using a wallet cover all the time can get annoying, but you only need one in certain situations.

If you're planning on doing any DIY or carpentry work, use a wallet cover on that day so you don't damage your wallet while you're in the middle of a project.

A wallet cover is also useful if you need to put your wallet in your pocket with items that could scratch it, such as keys and tools. It's also a great option if your hands will be dirty, such as if you're repairing your car or bike.

A wallet cover is a perfect option for items like minimalist wallets, where scratches and nicks can be extra visible.

Keep Your Leather Wallets in Impeccable Shape with These Tips

Along with your motorcycle boots and jackets, leather wallets are essential accessories that make great investments because they are so timeless and long-lasting.

So no matter how many leather wallets you have, make sure to follow these tips to care for the leather properly. By keeping your wallet's leather clean and by protecting your wallet's exterior, you'll be able to use your wallet for years to come.

For even more high-quality leather products, you'll love our selection of men's wallets.

From classic trucker wallets to biker wallets, check out our online catalog to find your new favorite leather wallet today.