Why and How To Clean Your Leather Gardening Gloves

When gardening, a pair of protective gloves often comes in handy. Whether you're picking tomatoes or turning over soil, leather gardening gloves provide powerful protection against cuts, slivers, and more. As you continue to use them, however, they can quickly become stained and smelly. Knowing how to clean your leather gardening gloves properly can help you extend their usable life and keep them looking as good as new.

What Causes Stains on Leather Gardening Gloves?

There can be various kinds of dirt, slime, oil, and pollution that can cause stains on leather gloves but one of the most common types of stains comes from organic matter like soil, plants, and compost. When we handle these things in the garden, they can seep into the leather and cause uncomfortable stains. Not only do these make the gloves look dirty, but they can also make them smelly too.

Cleaning with Natural Products

Cleaning leather gardening gloves with natural products might be the easiest and safest way to get them looking like new. Several natural products can help you clean away dirt and stains from your gloves. Apple cider vinegar is a commonly used option as it helps remove odours that accumulate due to the presence of sweat and dirt on gloves. You can also use some mild soaps or enzyme-based cleaners for spot cleaning as well.

Cleaning with Chemical Products

Using chemical products for cleaning your leather gloves can also be an option but it is important to note that using too harsh of a cleaner can damage the material. You can start with simple cleaning agents such as saddle soap or leather cleaning solution. Rub the solution onto the gloves with a soft cloth, and then use a brush to gently scrub away any dirt and debris. Once you're finished, rinse the gloves in cool water and let them dry out naturally.

Caring for Your Leather Gardening Gloves

The most important thing you can do when it comes to maintaining your leather gloves is to keep them as dry as possible after each use. If possible, try not to store them in an airtight bag or container for more than a day or two. As this can cause them to become mouldy. Additionally, you can also try to store them in a cool, dry place whenever possible, to prevent heat damage or fading of the material.

Final Word

Leather gardening gloves provide powerful protection and can help complete a variety of tasks in the garden. Knowing how to properly clean and maintain your gloves can help keep them looking good as new and extend their usable life. Using natural products like apple cider vinegar or mild soap can help you clean away dirt and stains without the worry of damaging the material. Additionally, taking proper care of your leather gloves and keeping them dry after each use is important to maintain their quality.