The Best Leather Repair

Cleaning Leather Saddles

• Saddle soap is the best route for keeping saddle leather healthy. Use elbow grease to get out the dirt using a damp sponge or a knuckle brush for a really dirty saddle. Soap up one side of the tack, then wipe it clean with a sponge. Keeping scrubbing until the soap suds are no longer gray. It's especially important to clean new leather because it helps retain the leather oil. Oiling leather is only necessary if the leather is getting stiff. Avoid over-conditioning and leaving the leather oily. Oil the leather after a washing when the saddle is partially dry.

Fixing Baseball Gloves

• Fixing broken or stiff leather baseball gloves begins by removing the laces. Give the glove a thorough cleaning, inside and out. The palm especially can be damaged by moisture. Condition the glove using liquid Lexol, which preserves the glove and keeps its strength and beauty while maintaining the leather's flexibility and resiliency. The preservative also serves as a barrier against moisture and leaves the leather soft and pliable.

Solution For Thorough Cleaning

• This homemade solution can be used to clean and condition other leather products, such as jackets, shoes and furniture. Combine one part white vinegar and two parts neat's-foot oil or raw or food grade linseed oil. Apply it to a white, lint-free cloth and rub down the leather. Leave it overnight, then buff in the morning for a sparkling shine. If the leather has mildew or mold remove it before cleaning with a solution of one part rubbing alcohol and one part water. Use a damp cloth or spray bottle to apply the solution. Allow it to air dry or turn on a fan to circulate some gentle air.

General Leather Cleaning

• If you just need a general clean on finished leather, such as clothes and luggage, use a gentle, moisturizing bath soap such as Dove. Work it into a lather using a damp cloth, but do not get the product too wet. Wipe off the lather with another damp cloth; do not rinse with water. Treat it with leather conditioner once the leather is completely dry. For unfinished leather, such as work boots or baseball gloves clean with saddle soap and allow it to air dry. Use mink oil to condition.

Leather Maintenance

• Regular maintenance, including spot cleaning, protective sprays and dusting, can increase the life of your leather. If your car has leather seats, avoid hot and sunny parking spots. Use a sun screen over the car windows to block out damaging light.