Care for Leather Belts and Exotic Skins. Storage and Maintenance Guide.
Dec 30, 2024
Storage
A leather belt is a two-layer belt, a so-called lining (the inside) made of cow or calf. The outer side is an exotic skin such as crocodile, ostrich, or similar. A quality belt is often a bit stiffer at first before you start using it; this is due to the thickness of the lining. The belt should either hang like a tie, lie in a pouch with a circumference of 18-20 cm, or lie in a belt drawer. You always roll a belt from the tail end. The belts from BREDAL are delivered with a blue velvet pouch.
Care
Glossy belts require little maintenance — they have become glossy due to friction and the use of agate stone on a so-called Glazing Jack machine. I have a spray that can restore some of the shine. These are often dress belts that see little wear.
Matte leather belts are easier to care for. Use a regular Kiwi tin, black, brown, or neutral — it is silicone-free. Use your thumb to press in many places on your belt — then use a SOFT brush, for example with horsehair. The friction provides both conditioning/nourishment for the belt and patina. Should be done twice a year. If you have a silver buckle it should also be polished twice a year if you do not want an oxidized look. PS.
When you visit me — bring a belt that needs care, and I will take a look at it.
