Care for Leather Belts and Exotic Skins. Storage and Maintenance Guide.
Dec 30, 2024
Storage
A leather belt is a two-layer belt, with a so-called lining (the inside) made of cowhide or calfskin. The outer layer is an exotic skin such as crocodile, ostrich, etc. A quality belt is often a little stiffer at first, before you start wearing it; this is due to the thickness of the lining. The belt should either hang like a tie, be stored in a bag with a circumference of 18-20 cm, or be kept in a belt drawer. You should always roll a belt from the back end. BREDAL belts come with a blue velvet bag.
Care
Glossy belts are difficult to do much with - they have become glossy due to friction and use of an agate stone - a so-called Glazing Jack machine. I have a spray that can restore some of the shine. These are often dress belts with little wear.
Matte leather belts are easier to care for. Use a regular Kiwi tin, black, brown, or neutral - it contains no silicone. Press your thumb in many places on your belt, then use a SOFT brush, for example one with horsehair bristles. The friction both conditions/nourishes the belt and gives it a patina. This should be done twice a year. If you have a silver buckle it should also be polished twice a year unless you want an oxidized look. P.S.
When you visit me, bring a belt that needs care, and I'll take a look at it.
Would you like to explore the materials and find your next belt? See our men's leather belts.
Professional tools and courses in leathercraft
If you'd like to take your belt care a step further, or if you work with leather yourself, I recommend Skinnlåven Smith og Bull. They have a wide selection of professional leatherworking tools - much of it imported from the USA - including edge burners, punches, discs, and polishing equipment. They also have extensive expertise in traditional leather types such as cow, goat, sheep, and ox.
Would you like to learn how to make leather products yourself? Skinnlåven also offers courses where you can make your own belts, purses, and other leather products from scratch, with expert guidance. A natural stop for anyone who takes leathercraft seriously.
